Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. This sample shows subtle cathedral arches and faint wavy figure, typical of flat-sawn stock.
Color Description
Creamy white to off-white sapwood (which is the primary commercial part) with a slight reddish-brown hue. Heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. It has a natural luster and tends to turn golden amber with light exposure/age.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments (piano frames/guitar necks), turning, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently sanded stock based on the bright, pale color and lack of oxidation/ambering; likely less than 1 year since processing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its high density can lead to burning with dull bits. Sands to a very smooth finish. Can be difficult to stain evenly without a pre-conditioner due to tight grain.
Notable Features
Virtually odorless; well-known for producing maple syrup. High shock resistance and abrasion resistance. Dust can be a sensitizer for some users.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the white color; oil-based finishes will immediately add a yellow/amber tint. Shellac and lacquer are excellent choices.
Identification Confidence
High. The creamy white color, tight diffuse-porous grain structure, and subtle cathedral patterns are classic hallmarks of Acer saccharum.