Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. This sample shows flat-sawn cathedral patterns and some characteristic wavy fibers near the surface disruption.
Color Description
Sapwood is a creamy white to off-white, while the heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. This sample is predominantly sapwood with a high luster; maple tends to yellow slightly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very 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 (USA and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern lumber, likely processed within the last 1-5 years based on the lack of deep oxidation and the presence of contemporary mechanical scuffs.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with dull high-speed steel bits. It glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in some individuals; known for superb tonal qualities in instruments; sometimes contains 'sugar streaks' or mineral stains.
Finish Recommendations
Responds excellently to clear coats like polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac. Pre-conditioning is recommended if staining to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy white color, tight pore structure, and characteristic 'cathedral' grain pattern are diagnostic of Acer saccharum.