Maple (Hard)

Common Name(s)

Hard Maple, Sugar Maple, Rock Maple

Scientific Name

Acer saccharum

Tree Distribution

Northeastern North America

Tree Size

80-115 ft. tall, 2-3 ft trunk diameter

Janka Hardness

1450 lbf

Appearance

Unlike most other hardwoods, the sapwood of Hard Maple lumber is most commonly used rather than its heartwood. Sapwood color ranges from nearly white, to an off-white cream color, sometimes with a reddish or golden hue. The heartwood tends to be a darker reddish brown. Birdseye Maple is a figure found most commonly in Hard Maple, though it’s also found less frequently in other species. Hard Maple can also be seen with curly or quilted grain patterns.

Grain / Texture

Grain is generally straight, but may be wavy. Has a fine, even texture.

Pricing / Availability

Should be moderately priced, though slightly more expensive than Soft Maple. Also, figured pieces such as birdseye, curl, or quilt are likely to be much more expensive.

- Information cited from Wood-Database.com