Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be wavy; the sample shows a very fine, uniform texture with distinct growth rings visible on the end grain. The face grain shows a subtle cathedral pattern indicative of flat-sawn lumber.
Color Description
Creamy white to off-white sapwood (which is the primary commercial part used) with a golden hue; heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. Exhibits a high natural luster and tends to amber/yellow slowly over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack. Primarily intended for indoor use.
Common Uses
Flooring (especially basketball courts and bowling alleys), kitchen cabinetry, fine furniture, butcher blocks, workbenches, baseball bats, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot (depending on grade and local availability)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced; the bright color and crisp edges suggest the wood has not undergone significant oxidation or UV-induced patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered highly sustainable with FSC certification common.
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). Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its incredible abrasion resistance and high density. It is odorless and non-toxic, making it the preferred choice for food-contact surfaces like cutting boards.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the white color, while oils (like Tung or Linseed) and shellac will impart a warm, amber glow.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the creamy white color, tight pore structure, fine grain, and characteristic 'flecking' in the end grain is diagnostic for Acer saccharum.