Maple (most likely Sugar Maple)
Acer saccharum • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and fine with small knots; flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral patterns and slight wavy variations. Occasional bird's eye or curly figure can occur in this species.
Color Description
Creamy white to light reddish-brown heartwood; sapwood is ivory-white. The wood has a high natural luster and tends to darken to a golden amber color over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
1,450 lbf (Hard)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to high moisture or outdoor conditions without treatment.
Common Uses
Flooring (basketball courts and bowling alleys), cabinetry, high-end furniture, musical instruments (violins and guitars), cutting boards, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Northeastern North America and the Great Lakes region.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $7.00 to $12.00 per board foot depending on figure and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young/fresh; the light color and Lack of deep oxidation or heavy wear suggest a relatively new board or recently surfaced material.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Fairly easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has high density and can burn if router bits are dull. Glues, turns, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Known for its 'tonal' properties in instruments and its sweet scent when worked. High sugar content can lead to thermal burning during machining.
Finish Recommendations
Takes clear coats, lacquers, and oils excellently. Because it is a closed-pore wood, it does not require grain filler, but it can stain blotchy without a pre-conditioner or sealer coat.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of creamy pale color, fine texture, diffused-porous structure, and characteristic small tight knots is highly diagnostic of North American Maple.