Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, poor resistance to decay and insect attack, intended for indoor use
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture, flat-sawn planks joined in an edge-glued panel
Color & Appearance
Pale creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with subtle variations between joined boards, medium natural luster, darkens slightly to a warm amber with age
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, poor resistance to decay and insect attack, intended for indoor use
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 15 years old based on clean, relatively un-patinated surface condition and modern edge-glued panel construction
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, abundant and widely available from sustainably managed forests, not CITES listed
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, workbench tops, flooring, bowling alleys, musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but prone to burning during routing or cutting if feed rates are too slow; glues and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains evenly when pre-sealed or used with a conditioner; water-based or oil-based polyurethanes, lacquers, and hardwax oils provide excellent protection
Notable Features
High density, excellent shock resistance, fine uniform texture with no prominent odor or toxic properties
