Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight but can be wavy; featured here in an oval cross-section ('cookie' cut) showing concentric annual growth rings and tight, fine texture with minimal visible vessels.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown; sapwood (which is most of this sample) is a creamy off-white with golden hues. It has a high natural luster and tends to darken to a golden amber over time with light exposure.
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 (gymnasiums/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, musical instruments (piano blocks), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (USA and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot (higher for figured or large live-edge slabs)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly cut/Recent (under 1 year). The wood shows no significant oxidation, graying, or patina, and the bark attached to the side suggests a recently harvested log section.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools but difficult with hand tools due to density. Responds well to gluing and turning, though prone to burning if router bits or saws are dull.
Notable Features
Known for its sweetness (maple syrup source) and non-toxic properties making it food-safe. It is very heavy and has excellent acoustic properties.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Use water-based polyurethane to maintain the white color, or tung oil/shellac to enhance the depth and natural warmth of the grain.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of very tight growth rings, light creamy sapwood, absence of large pores (diffuse-porous), and the characteristic bark remaining on the edges is diagnostic for Acer saccharum.