The Pros and Cons of Maple Flooring

Maple flooring has been popular for more than a century. Maple is a naturally light wood with a blondish tint and a subtle grain pattern. It has a clean, modern look, but it is versatile enough to blend with any style of decor.

Like all hardwoods, maple is available in solid or engineered form, pre-finished or unfinished, and in a variety of grades.

Cost of Maple Wood Flooring

On average, maple flooring costs about $7 to $10 per square foot, including installation. High-end maple can reach as high as $15 per square foot. Doing the installation yourself shaves about $3 to $5 per square foot from the price.

The more consistent the grain pattern, the more expensive your maple floors will be. Natural flaws such as knots and streaks lower the price.

Maple Wood Flooring Pros

• Strong - Maple is a very hard wood. It resists dents, dings and scratches better than many other types of wood, which makes it a great choice for high-traffic areas. Families with kids and pets also appreciate the durability of maple floors.
• Subtle grain pattern - Maple is a close-grain hardwood, which means it has a very subtle grain pattern. Because of this, it goes with nearly any type of decor or style, and it blends easily with other shades of wood. If you don’t like busy grain patterns, maple is a great choice.
• Easy to maintain - Like other hardwoods, maple is relatively easy to maintain. Simply sweep and dust the floors on a regular basis, and make sure spills are cleaned up immediately. Avoid soaps and regular cleaning products, opting only for manufacturer-approved cleaners.

Maple Wood Flooring Cons

• Doesn’t take well to stain - You don’t often see maple floors with a dark stain, and for good reason. Maple is not very porous, so it doesn’t absorb stain well. You’re likely to end up with a messy, blotchy look if you try to apply a dark stain.
• Yellows over time - As it ages, maple takes on a yellowish tinge. This is part of the natural aging process of the wood, but some people consider the yellow tone unattractive.
• Sensitive to moisture - As with all hardwoods, maple floors can be damaged by moisture. Maple floors should not be used in basements or bathrooms. Maple can be used in kitchens, but there is always the risk of damage from spills or leaky appliances.

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