Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 1450 lbf (Hard)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attacks if exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Fine, uniform texture with straight to slightly irregular grain and subtle cathedral arching on the flat-sawn face.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood with pale sapwood, exhibiting a subtle natural luster that darkens slightly to a golden amber hue with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
1450 lbf (Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attacks if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent or freshly milled stock, approximately 1 to 5 years old based on clean edges and minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern according to the IUCN, widely available, and managed sustainably in North American forests.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, cutting boards, workbench tops, musical instruments, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can burn easily during routing or cutting due to friction and has a moderate tendency to tear out on figured sections.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, dyes, and clears very well, though a pre-color conditioner or gel stain is recommended to prevent blotching on flat-sawn surfaces.
Notable Features
Dense, heavy, and strong with high shock resistance and a fine, closed grain structure requiring no pore filler.
