Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture. Shows distinct cathedral patterns in flatsawn sections and subtle growth rings. Some small pin knots are visible.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light to medium reddish brown; sapwood is commonly a creamy white to off-white. This sample shows the lighter sapwood tones with minimal aging, which will typically darken to a golden amber over time.
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, butcher blocks, musical instruments (piano frames, guitar necks), and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced; very low oxidation and no significant patina or wear marks, likely less than 1-2 years since processing.
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 hand and machine tools, though its high density can cause burning with high-speed cutters. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Fine, uniform texture; lacks a distinctive odor; known for excellent abrasion resistance and strength. Sensitive to humidity changes (high shrinkage rate).
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to all types of finish. Clear film-forming finishes like polyurethane or lacquer are recommended to preserve the light color; wiping oils can be used but will darken the wood.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain, creamy color, characteristic cathedral arch, and fine surface texture are diagnostic of Acer saccharum.