Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. This sample shows subtle cathedral figure and some slight wavy characteristics typical of flat-sawn Hard Maple.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish brown; the sapwood (as seen here) is a creamy off-white. It has a high natural luster and tends to turn golden brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack, especially when used outdoors or in high-moisture environments.
Common Uses
Flooring (notably basketball courts), bowling alleys, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/modern; the light color and lack of significant graying or deep patina suggest the wood was processed within the last 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or 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 is prone to burning with high-speed cutters (like router bits). Glues and finishes well, though it can be difficult to stain evenly without a pre-conditioner.
Notable Features
Neutral scent; high sugar content makes it prone to sap-staining if not dried quickly; excellent acoustic properties; very high resistance to abrasion.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes help preserve the white color; shellac or lacquer work well; oil-based finishes will impart a yellowish/amber tint immediately.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the closed-pore structure, creamy sapwood color, and characteristic 'fuzziness' of the grain in the image are highly indicative of Acer saccharum.