What Do You Need to Know About Maple Flooring

 

There is a wide variety of hardwood flooring types but many homeowners choose maple flooring for their premises more and more. It can bring character and appeal to any room so there is no wonder why so many people prefer it over other flooring solutions. Its magnificent looks and durability are two of the reasons why it is so widespread. However, just as any other thing in life, installing maple flooring has its advantages and disadvantages. Below we will discuss what are the features as well as what issues may arise if you install this floor at your home. Factors such as maintenance, climate and the area in which the floor is used should be carefully considered – read on!

• Let`s start with the advantages – as we already mentioned, maple floors are becoming extremely popular because of the incredible combination of good looks and durability. Maple flooring is rich and elegant and many people who look for a way to add warmth and light to their homes, choose exactly this solution. It is distinctive for its warm tint and light shape and it is suitable pretty much for any room. Another benefit is that you can use it no matter what is your colour scheme.

• The second thing on our list is the fact that maple is one of the hardest hardwood floors used in residential premises. An interesting fact which an esteemed flooring contractor shared is that maple is typically used in bowling alleys because it can endure foot traffic and pounding bowling balls without hassle. Maple is also used for manufacturing different furniture. 

• Maple flooring is easy to maintain. All you have to do is to sweep or vacuum it on a weekly basis and mop it with a suitable soap. Better use mild natural soap and water – you are promised that the finish will look good as new. When speaking of annual maintenance, you should have in mind that about every 6 months you should buff it out to keep its gloss. 

• Last but not least, maple flooring comes at a very reasonable price. It is widely available – just visit the nearest wood flooring showroom and check it out! Depending on the budget you have, you can choose a lower grade – it will be still very stylish and durable.

• Now, let`s discuss the disadvantages – the main issue that you will face with maple flooring is that it is prone to scratching because the grain is very smooth. Scratches, especially the large ones, are easily visible. In order to deal with that you should polish them out with wax. You will be able to get rid of them but still, you have to be careful when dragging furniture around or walking in high heels – you are recommended not to install maple flooring in hallways to avoid ruining its surface. 

• The second disadvantage is that maple can be difficult to stain sometimes. Some homeowners enjoy a lighter look but they may face an obstacle achieving it – the stain often has splotches on the place where the grain is heavier. If you want to stain in a darker shade, it will adhere more evenly. A good idea is to seal the flooring to provide additional protection. Once you have refinished the maple floor, resand it and add a coat of stain finish – you will achieve great results but if you are not sure that you are capable of performing the whole process on your own, better rely on professionals. 

• Humidity is a huge problem for maple floors. If you live in a climate where the humidity rises and falls, we recommend you to buy a dehumidifier for the humid months and humidifier for the dry months. Maple boards move when the humidity changes, therefore make sure to absorb/ provide as much as you can to keep the floor from shrinkage, expansion and moving. Sometimes heat can also cause boards to move. Make sure to maintain a moderate temperature and humidity so your flooring can preserve its good looks longer and stay in its original state.

Maple comes in a rich variety of different flooring solutions that can bring appeal and comfort to your property. Its warm delicate shades together with its toughness make it an excellent option for people who are fans of hardwood floors. If you maintain your floor in a proper manner, you will not have any problems and the investment will be worth it!