Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, particularly the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture; can occasionally exhibit bird's eye, curly, or quilted figures.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a darker reddish-brown, while the sapwood ranges from creamy white to light golden-brown with slight darkening over time under light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot for standard domestic lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Living tree in forest environment, estimated maturity between 40 to 80 years based on trunk diameter.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern, abundant and widely available with stable populations and good FSC certification availability.
Common Uses
Flooring, fine furniture, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, musical instruments, and butcher blocks.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, particularly the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn when routed or cut if feed rates are too slow.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, dyes, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well, though pre-stain conditioners may be used to prevent blotching.
Notable Features
Known for high density, excellent shock resistance, fine texture, and being the primary source for maple syrup.
