Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a flat-sawn cathedral pattern around a prominent knot
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with little visible distinction from the heartwood, moderate natural luster, and darkens to a warm amber tone with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh-cut or modern kiln-dried lumber, estimated 1 to 5 years old based on lack of heavy oxidation and clean surface
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed in North America
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, workbench tops, musical instruments, and bowling alley lanes
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn when routed or cross-cut due to high density; glues, turns, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, lacquers, and polyurethanes exceptionally well; a pre-stain conditioner is recommended to prevent blotchiness
Notable Features
High density, excellent shock resistance, fine and uniform texture, heavy weight, and susceptible to blue-stain fungi if not dried quickly
