Spalted Maple (Sugar Maple / Red Maple)
Acer saccharum / Acer rubrum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 950 - 1,450 lbf (Medium to Hard depending on species and degree of fungal softening)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack unless sealed or stabilized.
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Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly irregular with visible fine grain, featuring distinct dark spalting lines (fungal decay zones) and subtle curl/wave figure. Flat-sawn surface.
Color & Appearance
Pale creamy-white to light tan sapwood contrasting with grayish-brown, olive, and darker streak variations from spalting; features fine black zone lines and low to medium natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
950 - 1,450 lbf (Medium to Hard depending on species and degree of fungal softening)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack unless sealed or stabilized.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $8.00 - $16.00 per board foot depending on figure intensity, spalting clarity, and board thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly harvested and milled timber (likely under 1-3 years old), actively being shaped/worked in a modern workshop setting.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Least Concern; widely available and sustainable, not CITES listed. FSC certified sources accessible.
Common Uses
Turnings, bowls, tabletop surfaces, decorative cabinetry, musical instruments, specialty crafts, and veneers.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Generally works well with hand and power tools, though spalted/softened areas require sharp blades to avoid tearout; glues, sands, and turns exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Film finishes like clear polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac help seal porous spalted areas; wipe-on oil finishes enhance figure, though a sanding sealer is recommended first to prevent uneven absorption.
Notable Features
Distinctive dark black spalting lines caused by partial fungal decomposition; subtle bird's eye/fleck spots; dust can cause respiratory irritation (mild allergen).
