Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but sometimes wavy; fine, even texture. This flat-sawn sample shows subtle cathedral peaking and light curly figure in the lower-left section.
Color Description
Creamy off-white to light reddish brown sapwood with light tan heartwood. High luster and chatoyance; tends to age to a deeper golden amber over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; low resistance to rot and insect attack; restricted to interior use.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts, bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments (guitar necks), and billiard cues.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on figure and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh milled material (under 5 years) based on lack of significant oxidation and bright, creamy color with no UV grayscale.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified sources are common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though high density can lead to burning if blades are dull. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; produces a sweet scent when worked; can cause blotching when stained due to tight grain.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes to maintain the white color, or shellac/lacquer for a traditional look. Conditioners are recommended if staining.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain, creamy color, subtle figure, and characteristic growth ring definition are classic markers of Acer saccharum.