Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but sometimes wavy; fine, even texture with occasional curls or subtle ripples visible in the sample image.
Color Description
Sapwood is creamy white to off-white, sometimes with a golden hue; heartwood is reddish brown. This sample displays the light, uniform color typical of Maple sapwood with moderate luster.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), kitchen cabinetry, butcher blocks, furniture, musical instruments, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and figuring.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern/recent; lack of significant oxidation or deep UV-yellowing suggests the sample is less than 5-10 years old since surfacing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with high-speed cutters (like routers). It glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its high abrasion resistance and sweet scent when being machined; may cause allergic skin reactions or respiratory irritation in some individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; however, water-based finishes are recommended to prevent the wood from yellowing over time. Blotching can occur with stains, so a pre-stain sealer is advised.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the creamy color, tight grain, and subtle ray flecks are classic indicators of Acer saccharum, though the slight blur in the image makes absolute confirmation of pore structure difficult.