Hard Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a closed, uniform texture; visible wavy or curly figure is present in this specific sample, often referred to as tiger or fiddleback figure.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a reddish brown, but the commercially preferred sapwood (shown) ranges from nearly white to an off-white cream color. It has a high natural luster and tends to darken to a deeper gold/amber with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; very low resistance to rot and insect attack, making it suitable for indoor use only.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments (violin backs/guitar necks), cutting boards, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $12.00 per board foot, depending on the intensity of the curly/wavy figure.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern milling. The Lack of significant oxidation or deep patina suggests the sample is relatively fresh, likely harvested and milled within the last 1-5 years.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with hand and machine tools, though its high density can cause burning with high-speed cutters (like routers). Glues and finishes well, though it can go blotchy when stained.
Notable Features
Produces a distinct sweet smell when worked; known for its high resistance to abrasion and excellent acoustic properties; can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues in some sensitive individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes are recommended to maintain the white color; shellac or tung oil can be used to pop the figured grain, though they will add an amber tint.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy color combined with the fine, closed pores and distinctive wavy fiddleback figure is classic for Acer saccharum.