Sugar Maple (or Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and parts of southeastern Canada
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, even texture and subtle cathedral pattern on the flat-sawn center panel
Color & Appearance
Light creamy white to golden-brown heartwood, showing a warm medium-brown stain finish with subtle natural variations and moderate luster
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for lumber, higher for finished components
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 15 years old, representing a modern finished kitchen cabinet door in good condition
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern, widely abundant, sustainably harvested, and frequently FSC certified
Common Uses
Cabinetry, high-end furniture, flooring, bowling alleys, butcher blocks, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and parts of southeastern Canada
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or high-speed operations due to its density
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, varnishes, and lacquers exceptionally well; pre-stain conditioner can help achieve an even color tone on hard maple
Notable Features
High density, fine uniform texture, excellent shock resistance, and takes stains and finishes very smoothly
