Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf - Hard
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and fungal decay if exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Closed grain with subtle bird's eye and light curly figure, fine uniform texture with wavy cathedrals
Color & Appearance
Medium to dark amber-brown stain or aged honey tone over cream sapwood, displaying low to medium luster with subtle chatoyance
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf - Hard
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and fungal decay if exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $7.00 to $12.00 per board foot for select grade maple (figured or bird's eye maple can range higher)
- Wood Age Estimate
- 10-30 years based on warm amber patina and finished surface wear
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Red List), not CITES listed, widely available FSC certified and sustainably harvested
Common Uses
Flooring, fine furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments (violin backs, guitar necks), bowling alleys, butcher blocks
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Workability
Fairly easy with power tools, though high density can burn under dull high-speed cutters; glues and turns exceptionally well, sands smoothly
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain conditioner required if staining to prevent blotchiness; clear coat polyurethane, lacquer, or wiped oil finishes work best to highlight grain depth
Notable Features
High density, excellent wear resistance, fine closed pores, non-toxic, subtle bird's eye flecks visible under surface finish
