Maple (Hard) - Acer saccharum

Hard Maple sapwood is a creamy white with a faint reddish brown hue while the heartwood varies from light to dark reddish brown, both may contain pith flecks. It has a smooth texture with a close fine grain that is usually straight but can also occur in "curly," "fiddleback," and "birds-eye" variations. It is hard and heavy with good strength properties and high resistance to abrasion and wear. It has high shrinkage and some movement. With care it machines and turns well and glues satisfactorily. Pre-boring is advised for nailing and screwing. It can be polished and stained to an excellent finish, especially in brown tones. It is a mid priced hardwood with a Janka Hardness rating of 1450. By the way, Hard Maple trees are tapped for their sap as the primary source from which Maple Syrup is made.

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