Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Midwestern North America
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to slightly durable; highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a fine, uniform texture, showing subtle cathedral patterns on the face-sawn boards.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white sapwood with a light reddish-brown heartwood, heavily stained to a dark, smoky charcoal or dark espresso tone with moderate luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to slightly durable; highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot for domestic lumber, varying higher for finished flooring.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years old based on modern flooring installation standards and wear patterns.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern species, abundant in North America, widely available certified by the FSC.
Common Uses
Flooring, fine furniture, cabinetry, bowling alley lanes, cutting boards, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Midwestern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn when routed or cut if feed rates are too slow. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or UV-cured factory finishes are ideal for durability on flooring. Pre-staining requires a conditioner for even absorption due to fine pores.
Notable Features
Heavy, dense, and strong with a fine uniform texture; prone to scorching during machining operations due to high density.
