Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a fine, even texture. This sample displays a subtle diffuse-porous cathedral figure characteristic of flat-sawn maple.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish brown; sapwood is ivory to creamy white. This sample exhibits a golden-amber stain or aged patina with a medium luster and smooth sheen.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; low resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack. Best for indoor applications.
Common Uses
Flooring, kitchen cabinetry, furniture, cutting boards, bowling pins, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot for select grade lumber.
Wood Age Estimate
Approximately 10-20 years based on the style of the cabinet door profile and the oxidation of the finish.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally sustainable.
Workability
Excellent for gluing and finishing; turns well. High density can cause burning with high-speed machine bits if not kept sharp.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive odor. Known for high abrasion resistance and its capability to take a very high polish.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer are standard for cabinetry. Maple can be difficult to stain evenly; a pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended for new wood.
Identification Confidence
High. The tight, closed-grain structure combined with the specific chatoyance and color variation under a clear/tinted topcoat is diagnostic of Sugar Maple used in residential cabinetry.