MAPLE

Latin name: Acer

Type of wood: Hardwood

Characteristics:

Most of the 150 species of maple come from Asia, although they are grown in North America and Europe. Maple species vary in strength and hardness with North American species being harder than European ones. Wherever the wood is sourced from, maple sands, stains and takes finishes well.

Uses:

Maple is in common use for heavy-duty flooring, such as bowling alleys, dance floors, kitchen cabinets, furniture, joinery and some veneers.

Advantages:

• durable, strong, long-lasting wood
• characteristic straight wood grain
• uniform colour
• good resistance to decay
• stains and polishes well

Disadvantages: 

• Maple can be difficult to glue