Hard Maple (likely Sugar Maple or Black Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular with a fine, even texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn or cathedral pattern with subtle growth rings and a closed-grain structure characteristic of Acer species.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish brown. The heartwood is generally a darker brown whereas this sample appears to be sapwood, which is more commonly utilized for its pale, uniform tone. It possesses a subtle natural luster and will typically age to a golden yellow.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; prone to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture, though high resistance to abrasion.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), cabinetry, furniture, musical instruments (piano frames/guitar necks), cutting boards, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (United States and Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 to $10.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing, likely 1-5 years post-milling based on the lack of deep oxidation and clean, light color with minimal patina.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List. Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with machine tools, though it has a high density that can cause burning with dull bits or blades. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though it can be difficult to stain evenly without a pre-conditioner.
Notable Features
High density and resistance to shock; neutral scent. The dust can be a sensitizer for some users. Notable for its high sugar content in living trees (maple syrup source).
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes work best to maintain the white color; oils and solvent-based finishes will yellow the wood significantly over time. Clear lacquer or shellac are also excellent options.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight grain, pale creamy color, lack of visible pores (diffuse-porous), and characteristic cathedral arching on the face are definitive markers of Hard Maple.