Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn cathedral grain, mostly straight with subtle waves; fine, even texture with occasional small pith flecks or mineral streaks visible.
Color Description
Predominantly cream to off-white sapwood (preferred); heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. It has a high natural luster and tends to turn golden-yellow with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments (piano frames/guitar necks), and billiard cues.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh milled stock; approximately 0-5 years since processing based on the light color and lack of deep oxidation/patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Generally works well but can be difficult to plane due to high density; prone to burning with high-speed cutters. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often produces a faint sweet scent when worked; high sugar content makes it prone to burn marks from dull saw blades; excellent acoustic clarity.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethane is recommended to maintain the white color; oil-based finishes will immediately amber the wood.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain, light color, and characteristic cathedral arcs on a flat-sawn face are diagnostic for Acer saccharum.