Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture. This sample shows subtle ripples and occasional small dark mineral streaks or pin knots. It can occur in figured forms like curly, quilted, or bird's eye.
Color Description
The sapwood is a creamy off-white to pale yellow-brown, which is the most used part. Heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. It has a natural luster and tends to amber/yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to insect attack and rot if used outdoors or in damp conditions.
Common Uses
Flooring (especially basketball courts and bowling alleys), kitchen cabinetry, butcher blocks, furniture, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot (select grade)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced. The lack of significant ambering or oxidation suggests the sample has been recently worked within the last 1-2 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools but turns and planes best with sharp cutters to avoid burn marks due to high density. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its high resistance to abrasion and wear. It has no characteristic odor when worked. Some individuals may experience skin irritation from the dust.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Water-based urethanes help maintain the bright white color; oil-based finishes will immediately impart a yellow/gold cast.
Identification Confidence
High. The creamy color, tight closed pores, fine grain lines, and characteristic small dark pith flecks/mineral streaks are diagnostic for Acer saccharum.