Hard Maple (Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Northeastern and Midwestern North America, as well as southeastern Canada.
- Hardness
- 1,450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable to slightly durable. Susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture or outdoor environments.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, uniform texture. Flat-sawn and plain-sliced appearance with subtle cathedral arch patterns visible on the face.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light golden-brown heartwood with little visible distinction from the sapwood. Pale appearance with a natural satin-like luster that darkens slightly to an amber tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to slightly durable. Susceptible to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture or outdoor environments.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically ranging from $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade, thickness, and regional availability.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively freshly milled or recently processed lumber, likely between 1 to 5 years old based on minimal oxidation and light patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant and sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices, of least concern on the IUCN Red List, and widely available with FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, bowling alleys, butcher blocks, workbench tops, turning blocks, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern and Midwestern North America, as well as southeastern Canada.
Workability
Generally works well 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, dyes, varnishes, lacquers, and polyurethanes exceptionally well. A pre-stain conditioner is often recommended to prevent blotchiness on figured or plain maple surfaces.
Notable Features
High density and impact resistance, minimal distinct odor, fine and uniform pore structure, and a tendency to burn during high-friction machining operations.
