Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed, straight grain with subtle cathedral figure visible in the flat-sawn top rail; fine, uniform texture with occasional slight wavy figure.
Color Description
Creamy off-white to light reddish brown; heartwood is darker reddish brown while sapwood (commonly used) is pale. This sample shows a warm golden-amber patina due to age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; low resistance to rot and insect attack, suitable for interior use only.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, flooring (basketball courts, bowling alleys), furniture, cutting boards, musical instruments, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 20-40 years old based on the oxidation of the finish, the style of the cabinetry construction, and the darkening of the maple from its original pale white state.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with high-speed cutters (like router bits). Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
High resistance to abrasion and wear; produces a sweet smell when cut; known for being a 'tonewood' in instrument making.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability in kitchen/bathroom environments. Takes stains poorly (prone to blotching) unless a sealer or gel stain is used.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain structure, specific cathedral pattern, and characteristic ambering are diagnostic of aged Hard Maple cabinetry.