Maple remains one of the most popular types of authentic hardwood used in the construction of furniture for a number of reasons. Along with its stylishly elegant look, it offers some unique properties that simply aren’t found in other types of wood. Like all type of hardwood, though, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using maple. Before you make the decision to purchase a new set of maple furniture, it’s important that you fully understand what these pros and cons are. Only then can you make an educated decision that leaves you with the best type of furniture for your specific needs.
Overview of Maple Trees
Many people are surprised to hear that there are actually a wide variety of different maple trees in the wild. According to some estimates, there are roughly 128 different maple trees and shrubs in the world, most of which are native to Asia. Over a third of those species have been placed on the endangered watch list because of their dwindling habitat. Based on those statistics alone, one might assume that very few maple trees grow in the U.S., which is partially correct. The truth is that most maple trees do in fact grow across seas in Asian countries, but there are a select few that are still native to the U.S., and they are highly valued as a material in the construction of furniture and other other hardwood items.
Characteristics of Maple Furniture
As previously stated, there are over a hundred different types of maple trees in the world, all of which have their own unique properties and characteristics. Sugar maple here in the U.S. is know for its strength and durability, which is why it’s frequently used to produce bowling pins and baseball bats. With that said, most all types of maple is strong and able to withstand blunt force, making them an ideal candidate in the construction of furniture. Whether it’s for a dining table, chairs, dresser or chest of drawers, manufacturers want to offer their customers a high level of strength that’s able to withstand the hands of times, and that’s exactly what maple does.
Of course the most notable characteristic with maple furniture is the decorative patterns found in the wood grain. Depending on the type of maple tree used, the furniture may possess an attractive array of grain flowing in a certain pattern or direction. This added element adds to the overall aesthetics of the furniture, giving it an upper-hand over other types of hardwood.
You might be interested in learning the difference between maple vs. walnut.
