Brown Maple Wood Vs. Oak

This brown maple chair is made from a slightly lighter version of the Black Maple, an extremely hard and durable wood.

Maples and oaks are the two most common wood groups with which to build. Both exterior and interior design is dominated by these two woods. Comparing the black maple, of which brown is an informal subtype, and oak is difficult because they are so significant in building. They have slight advantages over the other in distinct areas. Yet, you really cannot go wrong with either.

Density

Black maple is an extremely hard wood, and is harder than oak. While the brown maples are harder, they are actually less dense than oaks. This lack of density means that the maple, while immensely strong, can be more brittle. The slightly softer black and brown maples can absorb more water than oaks, especially over time when weathering becomes apparent. Because of their hardness, this absorption will take some time to be noticeable. In general, if you are a woodworker or carpenter, oaks, especially white oak, are your best bet.

Splitting

Oaks are less amenable to splitting than maple. The brown and black maples, while extremely durable, are prone to splitting and taking nails poorly. While the black maples are slightly softer than the common sugar maples, they are still harder than oaks.

Weight

One marginal difference between brown and black maples and oaks is the the oaks are slightly lighter. Because of the differences in interior density, the maples can be easier to use. For those carpenters who are used to the temperamental nature of the maples, its greater “give” and elasticity makes them ideal. Woodworkers who work with many species might shy away from the black maples because of the higher risk factor of splitting mid-project. Oak, especially the white, is probably more resistant over time. Maples, in the most general terms, are less predictable.

Sanding

Sanding maples is difficult. The sand marks are more visible and takes more time to sand off than the oaks. Oak has a decided advantage in this regard. In some cases, the harder brown maples can be tough to saw because of their resistance. The basic rule is that the harder the wood, the more skill and specialization is needed to work with it. The brown maple might be a better alternative to the sugar maples and those harder of the species. Its lightness might compensate for its hardness.

References

• Maple: Maple Lumber Properties & Uses
• County Floors: Janka Hardness Scale for Wood Flooring Species
• County Floors: Maple (Sugar/Hard)