Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and southeastern Canada
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, poor resistance to decay and insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with fine, uniform texture and subtle growth rings
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light golden-brown sapwood with slightly darker reddish-brown heartwood, low luster, tending to amber slightly with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, poor resistance to decay and insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot (standard lumber grades)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recently milled or manufactured, less than 5 years old based on clean, un-oxidized surface condition
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely abundant and sustainably managed
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, workbench tops, cutting boards, bowling alley lanes, and musical instruments
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and southeastern Canada
Workability
Can be challenging due to its hardness; prone to burning when routed or cut with dull blades; glues, turns, and finishes well
Finish Recommendations
Takes water-based and oil-based finishes well; clear coats like polyurethane or lacquer are ideal to maintain the light, natural color; pre-staining conditioner may be needed for even stain absorption
Notable Features
High shock resistance, dense structure, fine and even texture, lacks pronounced odor, can occasionally exhibit bird's eye or curly figure
