Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America and major growing regions in the Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine, uniform texture, commonly selected for strength and shock resistance in turned applications.
Color & Appearance
Light creamy white to off-white sapwood with a slight reddish-brown tinge to the heartwood, exhibiting a subtle natural luster that darkens minimally to a warm amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard lumber, higher when processed into specialized turned components.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be a modern or recently manufactured item (0-10 years) given the clean finish and lack of deep oxidation patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely abundant, sustainably harvested, and readily available FSC-certified.
Common Uses
Musical instrument parts, drumsticks, tool handles, flooring, cabinetry, heavy-duty furniture, and turning blocks.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America and major growing regions in the Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or sawing due to friction; glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, lacquers, varnishes, and oils very well, though a pre-color conditioner is sometimes recommended to prevent blotchiness.
Notable Features
Exceptional shock resistance, high density, excellent bending strength, and a fine uniform texture lacking prominent odor.
