Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Closed, generally straight with subtle wavy or curly figure and minor mineral streaks, flat-sawn planks showing soft cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Light creamy white to golden-tan heartwood with slightly paler sapwood, displaying a warm honey-amber tone from a tinted surface finish, with moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot for domestic hardwood lumber; finished flooring pricing varies higher.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 25 years old based on modern residential flooring wear, surface scratching, and factory UV-cured finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, abundant and widely available from sustainably managed forests with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Flooring, high-end furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, bowling alley lanes, and millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Can be challenging to machine due to high density; prone to burning during routing or sawing if feed rates are too slow. Glues and finishes well with proper prep.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, water-based finishes, or conversion varnish; staining can sometimes appear blotchy, so a pre-stain conditioner is recommended.
Notable Features
Extremely dense and tough with high shock resistance; fine, uniform texture; lacks prominent odor once dry.
