Hard Maple (also known as Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, even texture. This specific sample shows a classic flat-sawn cathedral pattern near the top and straight grain along the rails. Occasional wavy or curly figures can occur in this species.
Color Description
The sapwood is a creamy white to off-white, sometimes with a golden hue, while the heartwood is a darker reddish-brown. This board primarily features the desirable white sapwood with a subtle pearlescent luster. It tends to yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to perishable; poor resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack. Best suited for interior applications.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts and bowling alleys), furniture, cabinetry, billiard cues, musical instruments (piano blocks), butcher blocks, and tool handles.
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 local market)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or surfaced. The lack of oxidation, bright color, and visible 'Maple' pencil markings suggest it is new stock (less than 1-2 years old).
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it is prone to burning if saw blades are dull or feed speeds are too slow. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its high density and abrasion resistance. It has a faint, sweet scent when being worked. High sugar content in the wood can lead to 'burn marks' during machining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well. Water-based polyurethanes are recommended to preserve the white color; oil-based finishes will highlight warmth but cause significant yellowing over time.
Identification Confidence
High. The fine closed pores, creamy white color, distinctive cathedral grain pattern, and the faint 'Maple' handwritten label on the board are diagnostic for Acer saccharum.