Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern North America and Eastern United States/Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with fine, uniform texture; features classic flat-sawn cathedral grain arches around a prominent character knot with minor mineral streaks.
Color & Appearance
Creamy off-white sapwood blending into light reddish-tan heartwood near the lower left section. Light yellowing over time with exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for Select & Better grade 4/4 lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, recently milled/surfaced planed stock with minimal surface oxidation or age patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES Appendices or IUCN Red List. Widely available, sustainably harvested, and FSC certified options are common.
Common Uses
Flooring, fine cabinetry, furniture, cutting boards, butcher blocks, workbench tops, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and Eastern United States/Canada.
Workability
Fair to good overall. Can burn easily with high-speed routers or saw blades if feed rate is too slow. Turns and glues well; pre-drilling required for screws.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-stain conditioner recommended if staining to avoid blotchiness. Excellent with clear topcoats such as water-based polyurethane, lacquers, or wiping varnish to maintain light color.
Notable Features
Dense, heavy, fine-pored diffuse-porous structure; minimal natural odor; excellent abrasion resistance; classic light appearance favored for modern interiors.
