Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Principally straight grain with a fine, even texture. Notable cathedral figure is visible in the flat-sawn face, accompanied by slight wavy variations and small pith flecks characteristic of the species.
Color Description
Creamy white to off-white sapwood (which is the primary commercial part used) with a slight reddish-brown hue in the heartwood. It has a low to medium luster and tends to amber/yellow over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if used outdoors or in damp conditions.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts and bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, pool cues, musical instruments (mostly necks), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Canada and Northern United States).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional location.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh lumber, likely less than 1-2 years post-processing based on the light color, lack of significant oxidation, and clean surface from recent milling.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available with FSC certification options.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high density that can lead to burning if saw blades are dull or feed rates are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; produces a sweet scent when worked; can be prone to blotching when stained due to its tight grain structure.
Finish Recommendations
Clear topcoats like water-based polyurethane or lacquer are recommended to preserve the white color. If staining, a pre-stain conditioner is essential to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of very light creamy color, tight grain, specific cathedral patterning, and absence of visible large pores is classic for Acer saccharum.