Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. This specific sample shows a light cathedral figure on a flat-sawn face with some mild waviness and small pin knots.
Color Description
Creamy off-white to light reddish brown. Unlike most hardwoods, the sapwood is most commonly used rather than the heartwood. It exhibits a natural luster and tends to amber/yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), kitchen cabinetry, butcher blocks, workbenches, musical instruments (piano cues/guitar necks), and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot (Select/Better grade)
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh stock, likely less than 2-5 years old based on the lack of significant oxidation, crisp machine-cut edges, and light surface color.
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 can be difficult with hand tools due to its density. High risk of burning when using high-speed cutters (router bits). Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its high abrasion resistance and 'sweet' scent when being machined. Can cause blotchiness when staining due to tight grain structure.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes are recommended to preserve the white color; oils and solvent-based finishes will add a yellow/amber tint. Pre-stain conditioners are essential if staining.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of very tight pores, creamy color, subtle cathedral grain, and representative 'sugar' spots (small dark flecks) is diagnostic for Acer saccharum.