Every type wood has its own identity and characteristics. The product that is obtained from them, bears these features proudly and can easily be distinguished. The variation of wood mainly comes in its color, texture, grains that make it unique. If you compare Maple and Walnut wood these differences come distinctly forward. No matter which of these wood you choose for your kitchen or bathroom, they are bound to bring a remarkable change. Here we are going to discuss some of the differences between Maple and Walnut wood which might help you to decide which one you will prefer for your cabinets.
The most obvious differences are in Color and Grains
The basic difference is in their color. Walnut has a rich dark-brown color whereas the color of Maple is more of a sophisticated and lighter shade of amber. No matter what stain you use on both the woods, the color difference remains visible.
The next difference is in the grains of the wood. You will see very obvious wavy patterned grains on walnut cabinets. On the other hand, grains are hardly visible in Maple. There the grains are so closely packed with makes the wood appear flat and solid. Maple wood has its own beauty with a gleaming highlights. Walnut seem more robust with swirls and knots. For those who prefer more textures Walnut cabinets will be a better choice and those who look for a consistent and solid effect on their cabinets and furnitures Maple will obviously be a better option between the two.
Weight and Ease of use
Walnut is far lighter than Maple. If you consider the density scale, with 1 being the softer side, Walnut ranges between 1-2. Maple on the other side would be just at the end of the scale at 9-10. You can feel the differences in the weight of the wood while working with it.
Ease of use or feasibility is another stark difference that any carpenter will talk about. Maple requires the sharpest tools. Although Walnut is hard enough, it is easier to cut through than Maple. If you are planning to build your own cabinets, I would recommend carbide-tipped blades for cutting Maple. This feature of Maple makes it more scratch –proof than Walnut cabinets or furniture. Maple is far more tougher than it looks.
Stains and Finishes
Maple get stained easily. Walnut wood also gets stained, but unlike Maple, the rich blackish color does not change from stain too easily. This characteristic of Walnut as well as its richness in color makes it a favorite for kitchen countertops and cabinets.
Meanwhile the versatility of adapting color makes Maple popular for its own cause. It can be transformed in any hue to match with the rest of the décor of a house or a kitchen. With its higher density and flatter surface than Walnut, Maple is easier to finish nice and clear.
Value in Return
There is not much significance difference in price of equal grade of Walnut and Maple. However, since most of the kitchen cabinets are manufactured from plywood, the availability plays a major role in the cost. Walnut cabinets and bathroom vanities are far more expensive than Maple cabinets. Maple plywood is more easily available, at almost any wood supply store. You can easily purchase wholesale bathroom vanities and kitchen cabinets made from Maple wood from an online or offline furniture store. But for Walnut plywood, often special orders are required. This makes Walnut cost comparatively higher than Maple. But if you consider the value in return, a kitchen with Walnut cabinets is far more valuable. It increases the resale value of the home.
