Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, primarily the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture or outdoor environments.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, even texture and subtle flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible along the board.
Color & Appearance
The sapwood is a creamy white with a slight reddish-brown tinge, while the heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. It has a moderate natural luster and tends to amber slightly to a golden-yellow hue with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture or outdoor environments.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically ranging from $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be kiln-dried dimensional lumber prepared relatively recently (within the last few years), showing minimal natural aging or patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern status according to the IUCN; widely abundant, sustainably managed, and not listed on CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, cutting boards, workbench tops, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, primarily the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Can be challenging to work due to its high hardness. It tends to burn easily when routed or sawed if feed rates are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though pre-boring is recommended for nailing and screwing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well. Water-based finishes prevent excessive yellowing, while oil-based finishes enhance its natural golden amber tone.
Notable Features
High density and shock resistance, fine uniform texture, very subtle grain patterns, and contains no characteristic odor.
