Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture, featuring subtle cathedral and flat-sawn markings.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood with little visible distinction from the sapwood, possessing a subtle natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for standard FAS grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern to recently processed lumber (likely 1 to 5 years old based on clean, un-patinated surface).
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern, widely abundant, commercially managed, and not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Flooring, furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, workbench tops, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America, and southeastern Canada.
Workability
Can be challenging due to its hardness; prone to burning when routed or sawn if feed rates are too slow, but glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains evenly with proper preparation (use of a pre-color conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching), and accepts polyurethane, lacquer, or oil finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
High density, fine uniform texture, excellent shock resistance, and potential for rare figures like bird's eye or curly.
