Hard Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture; this sample shows a subtle flat-sawn cathedral pattern with light pith flecks and minimal figure.
Color Description
Sapwood is a creamy white to off-white, while the heartwood is a reddish-brown. This sample shows the lighter sapwood with some reddish-brown heartwood streaks. It tends to yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (piano frames), tool handles, and cutting boards.
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 regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to medium age (0-2 years since harvest); lacks significant oxidation patina or deep UV darkening.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Good overall; machines well but high density can cause burning with dull bits. Gluing, turning, and finishing are excellent. Pre-boring is recommended for fasteners.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; produces a sweet scent when worked; can cause allergic reactions in some individuals; excellent acoustic transparency.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coats like polyurethane or lacquer are best to maintain the white color. Staining can be blotchy unless a pre-stain conditioner is used.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the closed-grain structure, cream-to-white sapwood color, and subtle reddish streaks are classic indicators of Acer saccharum.