Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America, extending from Canada down through the northeastern and midwestern United States.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a subtle cathedral pattern from flat-sawn veneer peeling or slicing.
Color & Appearance
Pale creamy white to light reddish-brown sapwood with little visible distinction from the heartwood. Luster is moderate and uniform, and the wood darkens slightly to a warm amber over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 7.00 USD per board foot for lumber, or priced by sheet for rotary-cut veneer plywood.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged (5-15 years) based on light surface oxidation and minor handling scuffs.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not on the IUCN Red List. Widely abundant and commonly available as FSC-certified.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, high-end furniture, hardwood flooring, millwork, interior paneling, and butcher blocks.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America, extending from Canada down through the northeastern and midwestern United States.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn when routed or cross-cut due to high density. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains evenly when used with a pre-color conditioner; accepts clear lacquers, varnishes, polyurethane, and water-based finishes exceptionally well.
Notable Features
Fine, uniform texture, heavy and dense, odorless when dry, and prone to scorching under high friction during machining.
