Sugar Maple (Hard Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. This sample displays a flat-sawn cathedral figure and subtle wavy grains. Occasional bird's eye or curly figure can occur in this species.
Color Description
Predominantly creamy white sapwood with a slight reddish-brown tinge. The heartwood is a darker reddish brown but the sapwood is what is typically utilized. It has a natural luster and tends to amber/yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack, particularly if used outdoors. Not recommended for exterior use without treatment.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts and bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, veneer, musical instruments (piano blocks, guitar necks), cutting boards, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for Select/Better grade; figured pieces (curly/bird's eye) command significantly higher prices.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern; the lack of deep oxidation, patina, or significant wear suggests the wood was milled and sanded within the last 1-5 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification options.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though its high density can cause burning with high-speed cutters. It glues, turns, and finishes well, though it can be prone to blotching when stained.
Notable Features
Known for its high resistance to abrasion and wear. It is a non-toxic wood and frequently used for food-contact surfaces. It has no characteristic odor when worked.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for clear, film-building finishes like polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac to highlight the color. If staining, a pre-stain conditioner is highly recommended to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain, creamy sapwood color, characteristic cathedral arch, and fine texture are diagnostic of Acer saccharum.