Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced curly (tiger) figure running perpendicularly across the board.
Color & Appearance
Light golden-tan to cream color with moderate natural luster, showing a strong chatoyant effect from the curly figure that shifts in appearance under different viewing angles.
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
- 15 to 30 dollars per board foot due to the highly figured curly grain.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old based on oxidation, surface patina, and minor shop wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally of least concern according to the IUCN.
Common Uses
High-end furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (especially violin backs and guitar necks), flooring, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging to work due to the dense nature and curly figure which is prone to tearout during planing; burns easily with dull router bits.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, dyes, and clear finishes (such as shellac, lacquer, or oil) exceptionally well, often enhanced by an initial dye coat to pop the curly figure.
Notable Features
Features distinct and striking tiger stripe chatoyancy caused by the wavy grain pattern, possessing high density and good shock resistance.
