Hard Maple
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight-grained with a fine, even texture. This sample shows flat-sawn cathedral patterns with some minor internal checking and dark mineral streaks commonly found in sugar maple.
Color Description
Typically a creamy off-white to light reddish brown. The heartwood is dark reddish brown, while the sapwood (preferred in this species) is the lighter tan seen here. It tends to yellow slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Perishable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if used outdoors or in high moisture environments.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts/bowling alleys), kitchen cabinetry, butcher blocks, workbenches, musical instruments, and turned objects.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America (Eastern United States and Canada).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled to 2 years; the light color and lack of deep ambering suggest relatively recent processing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to burn with high-speed cutters (like routers). Glues and finishes well, though it can be blotchy when stained.
Notable Features
High density and abrasion resistance; known for its sweet scent when worked. Can cause allergic reactions or respiratory irritation in some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Clear water-based polyurethanes are recommended to maintain the white color; oils like tung or linseed can be used but will cause significant yellowing/ambering.
Identification Confidence
High; the creamy color, closed-pore structure, presence of characteristic mineral streaks, and fine grain pattern are consistent with Acer saccharum.