Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America (Northeastern United States and Eastern Canada)
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable regarding decay and insect resistance; susceptible to rot if exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain, though fine texture with occasional curly, wavy, or bird's eye figure depending on the log section.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is reddish-brown to dark tan; sapwood is cream-white with a golden hue, darkening slightly to pale reddish-yellow over time.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable regarding decay and insect resistance; susceptible to rot if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on figure grade (e.g., higher for bird's eye or curly figure)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Living mature tree trunk estimated at 40 to 70 years old based on bark thickness, furrows, and trunk diameter.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and sustainably harvested across native regions with FSC options readily available.
Common Uses
Flooring (bowling alleys, basketball courts, residential), cabinetry, fine furniture, cutting boards, butcher blocks, musical instruments, and woodturning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Northeastern United States and Eastern Canada)
Workability
Fairly easy to turn and machine, though high density can cause burning with dull tools or rapid feed rates. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain conditioner recommended if staining due to blotching tendencies; finishes exceptionally well with clear oil finishes, polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac.
Notable Features
Highly dense wood known for excellent abrasion resistance, clean closed-pore structure, and production of maple syrup during tapping season.
