When to Use Oak vs Maple Kitchen Cabinets
If you're in the market for new kitchen cabinet doors for your home, you'll likely spend time comparing the different wood species. The wood type you decide on will dictate the cabinetry's durability and the appearance of your space. Two of the most popular options available are oak and maple. Both options are relatively affordable, sturdy, and aesthetically pleasing.
Are you not sure which option is right for you? We're here to discuss the differences between oak vs. maple so you can decide which wood type is best for your aesthetic vision for your next home renovation project. Here's everything you need to know:
What is Maple?
Maple is known for its smooth grain pattern and diverse color variations. The wood type is strong, sturdy, and durable, making it great for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas. Maple wood has some natural color variations, and the unique grain pattern can vary. Most maple can range from a creamy off-white color to dark brown.
What is Oak?
Oak is a strong and sturdy alternative. It's known for its prominent grain pattern and coarse texture. The unique aesthetic appeal of the wood type makes it a top choice for traditional, vintage, and rustic aesthetics. If you're looking for a stronger, more water-resistant wood type with a similar appearance, white oak is a great alternative.
The Difference Between Oak and Maple Cabinets
When comparing oak vs. maple, you'll want to take some time to explore the unique differences to determine which option is right for your next home renovation project. Here's how the two most popular wood types compare:
Appearance
Oak kitchen cabinets feature a more prominent grain pattern, making it ideal for traditional, rustic, and vintage kitchen aesthetics. Maple is more subtle and is used more frequently in modern kitchen designs. Most see maple cabinets as slightly more versatile than oak. However, if you’re set on oak, there are ways to add a more modernized touch to the wood species.
For example, committing to a two-tone cabinet door look can help you achieve a more modernized appearance. This is a creative way to add depth and dimension without going overboard.
Hardness
Oak is a 1290 on the Janka hardness scale, while maple is a 1450. Both wood species are sturdy and great for high-traffic areas. However, maple is slightly more resistant to general wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, the look and appearance of maple are easier to maintain, and the wood's integrity can last longer.
Staining
Oak cabinet doors are the best option if you're staining or painting your cabinet doors yourself. Oak absorbs stains better and has a stunning natural grain pattern that can be enhanced when stained. Maple cabinets have a coarser grain pattern, meaning it's more difficult to get an even stain on them.
Affordability
The cost between maple vs. oak cabinets is relatively comparable. Oak tends to be slightly less expensive than maple. However, white oak tends to be a little more expensive than oak. Here's a quick cost comparison between the three wood types if you were purchasing the Heritage Cabinet Door from Cabinet Door Factory:
- Maple - $27.85/sq.ft
- Oak - 25.52/sq.ft
- Knotty Oak - 24.65/sq.ft.
It's important to note that several outside factors impact the price, including the size of your kitchen and the finishes you plan to use.
White Oak vs Maple Cabinets
White oak is a slightly more durable version of oak. It's water-resistant, easy to stain, and has a prominent closed-grain pattern. On the Janka hardness scale, white oak is 1360, making it more comparable to maple. White oak is a strong, sturdy alternative if you're looking for a strong, durable wood but don't have the budget for maple.
When to Choose Maple?
Maple is the preferred wood type for modern or contemporary designs. When paired with white, grey, black, or navy blue, you can achieve a modern appearance that will withstand the test of time. The simple grain pattern won't be too distracting to the eye and will expertly complement the simple yet intentional details in your kitchen or home.
When to Choose Oak?
Oak is more suitable for classic or traditional aesthetics. The prominent grain pattern will add character to a rustic or vintage aesthetic. The wood species is also easier to stain or paint, making it a top choice for homeowners planning a DIY approach.
Choosing Between Oak Vs. Maple
When exploring the different wood types, it's always best to consider your unique needs and design preferences. The differences between oak and maple cabinets are subtle but important to the look and feel of your space. You'll want to ensure you choose a wood species that will complement your kitchen for years to come.
At Cabinet Door Factory, we offer a variety of custom cabinet doors in oak, maple, and white oak. All of our cabinet doors are custom-made and made to order. We also have cabinet hardware and matching drawer fronts you can invest in to complete the look.
Shop our custom cabinet doors today.
FAQ
How do cleaning and maintenance differ between maple and oak cabinets?
Both wood species are considered low-maintenance and easy to clean. To maintain the integrity of your cabinets, you'll want to clean them regularly with a gentle soap and warm water.
Can I mix maple and oak cabinets in my kitchen?
Yes, you can mix wood species for added depth and contrast to your space. However, some homeowners may feel this approach makes their space appear cluttered or unbalanced. A great alternative is to pair one wood species with a paint color. Both wood types pair well with black, white, or warm neutrals.
Do maple or oak cabinets add more value to a home?
Yes, investing in custom-made cabinet doors made with durable wood species is a great way to increase your home value.
