Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture
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Grain Pattern
Prominent bird's eye and slightly wavy figure on a straight-grained face
Color & Appearance
Light creamy tan to golden amber with subtle reddish-brown undertones, featuring characteristic dark bird's eye dots and moderate natural luster. Ample chatoyance due to the figure, darkening slightly to a warm honey hue over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 to $15.00+ per board foot due to the highly prized bird's eye figure
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated relatively modern, finished stock likely between 5 to 20 years old based on stable coloration and lack of heavy patina
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed in North America
Common Uses
High-end furniture, fine cabinetry, flooring, bowling alleys, butcher blocks, musical instruments, and decorative turning
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though figured sections can be prone to tearout during planing and can dull cutting edges quickly due to density
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear oil finishes, shellac, and water- or oil-based polyurethanes exceptionally well to highlight the chatoyance; sanding to a high grit is recommended before application
Notable Features
Features highly decorative bird's eye figure created by local depressions in the growth rings, dense structure, high shock resistance, and subtle sweet scent when freshly cut
