Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, even texture. Shows a distinct cathedral figure due to plain-sawn orientation, with some small pith flecks and subtle curly highlights visible in the luster.
Color Description
Color is predominantly creamy white (sapwood) with a subtle reddish-brown tinge. The heartwood, not largely visible here, is usually a darker reddish-brown. It possesses a natural luster and tends to darken to a golden amber color with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack, particularly the furniture beetle.
Common Uses
Flooring (especially basketball courts and bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, veneer, musical instruments (piano frames and violin backs), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for Select & Better grade
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced lumber; lacks significant oxidation or UV-induced darkening, likely less than 1-2 years old.
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 is prone to burning if router bits are dull or feed rates are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
High density and resistance to abrasion; lacks a characteristic scent. Known for its closed-pore structure which makes it ideal for food-contact surfaces like butcher blocks.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the white color, while tung oil or shellac will enhance the depth and golden tones of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy color, tight closed-grain structure, and characteristic cathedral arches visible in this flat-sawn board are diagnostic of Acer saccharum.