Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain but can be wavy; fine, even texture with a subtle cathedral pattern visible on the face grain.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish brown heartwood; sapwood is typically ivory white. It has a high natural luster and tends to amber/yellow over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture or ground contact.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts, bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, tool handles, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $9.00 per board foot (select grade).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently processed; the fiber tear-out and light color suggest the wood has not undergone significant oxidation or aging.
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 machine tools, though it is prone to burning if router bits or saw blades are dull; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often has a faint, sweet scent when worked; known for its exceptional abrasion resistance and high density.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes help maintain the white color; oils and shellacs will enhance the grain but add a golden/amber hue.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain structure, pale creamy color, and the characteristic way the fibers have torn ('fuzzing') during a rough cut are classic indicators of Hard Maple.