Maple Vs. Oak Flooring

Wood flooring is a decorative way to add class and sophistication to your home design scheme. Oak and maple are popular choices for hardwood flooring.

Types

White oak was popular up until the mid 20th century when red oak began being used because of its pinkish hue. Northern maple is the premium species among hardwoods and is often used for bowling alleys and gymnasium floors.

The Facts

Oak is popular because of its very prominent grain patterns that stand out when stained. Because maple often comes from colder climates with shorter growing seasons, the wood is much more dense and usually has fewer imperfections.

Features

Even though oak is hard and durable with rich colors, the wood can be slightly porous, allowing for weathering to take place over time. Maple flooring is denser, or harder, than oak, depending on the variety.

Identification

The sometimes dramatic coloring of oak, coupled with the rustic look of knots and defined grains, give the wood character and more aesthetic appeal. Maple has a more natural, lighter color, with select grades ranging from a pale cream to a slight pink to almost white.

Considerations

Because of its color and grain, oak is the most popular choice for wood flooring. The demand for oak sometimes makes it less expensive than maple.

References

• Maple Flooring Manufacturers Association, Inc.
• Countryplank.com
• Lowe's