Hard Maple / Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and fine, sometimes featuring subtle wavy patterns. It has a uniform, closed-pore texture and can occasionally exhibit bird's eye or curly figure, though this sample appears flat-sawn with a faint cathedral pattern.
Color Description
The sapwood is a creamy white to off-white with a slight golden hue, while the heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. This sample shows the characteristically pale sapwood which tends to amber or yellow over time with UV exposure. It has a high natural luster.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; very susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture, though highly resistant to abrasion and wear.
Common Uses
Flooring (especially basketball courts and bowling alleys), cabinetry, furniture, cutting boards, musical instruments (piano frames and guitar necks), and baseball bats.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on thickness and quality grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Recently milled; the lack of significant oxidation, deep ambering, or surface wear suggests this sample is less than 5-10 years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices and reported by the IUCN as being a species of least concern. Widely available as FSC certified.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though its high density can cause burning with high-speed cutters (like router bits). It turns, glues, and finishes well, though it can occasionally be difficult to stain evenly without a pre-conditioner.
Notable Features
Essentially odorless. Known for its extreme density and resistance to shock. Some individuals may experience allergic skin reactions from the dust.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes are recommended to maintain the white color; oil-based finishes will immediately add a yellow/amber cast. Shellac or lacquer also work well for a smooth, high-sheen finish.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the closed grain, creamy white color, and subtle growth ring definition are classic indicators of Acer saccharum, though the slight blurriness of the photo prevents a definitive Macroscopic analysis of the pores.