Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but showing some wavy and curly figure (fiddleback tendencies) in this sample; fine even texture with a flat-sawn cathedral appearance on the face.
Color Description
Pale creamy white to light reddish brown; heartwood is darker than sapwood, which is more commonly used. This sample shows typical pale white/cream hues that will yellow or golden-amber with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments, turned objects, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced (1-2 years); little to no oxidation or patina is present on the visible surface.
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 hand and machine tools, though it has a high density and can burn easily with high-speed cutters (like router bits). Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often has a faint, sweet scent when being worked; known for its high abrasion resistance and excellent tonal properties for instrument backs.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the white color; oil-based finishes will immediately add a yellow/amber tint. Pre-conditioning is recommended if staining to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain, closed pores, creamy color, and specific 'curly' figure visible are classic markers for Acer saccharum.