Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Closed, straight grain with slight wavy figure and subtle cathedral patterns on the flat-sawn surface.
Color Description
Light creamy-white to off-white sapwood with a fine, even texture; heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. It shows a soft luster and tends to amber/yellow with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, butcher blocks, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and figure.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible oxidation and surface wear suggest the timber is likely 5 to 15 years post-processing, though the source tree was likely 60+ years old.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC options.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with tools, though high density can lead to burning with high-speed cutters; glues and finishes well, but can be difficult to stain evenly without a conditioner.
Notable Features
Known for its high abrasion resistance and sweet scent when being worked; can cause allergic skin reactions or respiratory irritation in some individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Clear coat such as water-based polyurethane to maintain the white color, or tung oil for a more natural look. Pre-stain conditioner is required if using dark pigments.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight pore structure, creamy color, and specific ray fleck pattern visible on the edge are classic indicators of Hard Maple.