Cherry Cabinets versus Maple Cabinets: Would the Best Wood Please Stand Up?
By Kelly RichardsonRefacingCabinet.com Columnist
Cherry cabinets and maple cabinets are two extremely popular choices for kitchen renovation projects. Each has its own features and "personality" that make it unique. If you're torn, don't be concerned--you really can't go wrong with either material. Here's why.
The American Hardwood Information Center represents the clearinghouse for all things cabinet. Each type of cabinet wood is sorted and described with respect to such meaningful characteristics as operating properties, abundance and availability, and a general description of performance.
Cherry Cabinets: The "Rose" of Kitchen Compartments
Cherry cabinets are made from the cherry tree, a fruit tree in the rose lineage. Cherry is typically reserved for fine furniture--even musical instruments. You might even consider your cherry cabinets a work of art.
- Origination. Cherry wood is cultivated in Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and New York
- Shading. A rich red to reddish brown--it will darken with age
- Performance. Readily accepts nails, glue, sanding and staining--known for its smooth finish
Maple Cabinets: The Wood of American Settlers
Maple cabinets have a storied history of solid construction and multiple applications. Maple wood holds up well under pressure and is ideal for households that receive heavy kitchen traffic.
- Origination. Maple wood is produced in the Eastern, Mid-Atlantic and Lake states
- Shading. Colors range from creamy white with a slight reddish brown tinge to light to dark reddish brown
- Performance. Resists abrasions and general wear--has the tendency to shrink over time.
The decision really comes down to your planned use. Cherry cabinets have a cultured feel while maple cabinets love the daily grind. As you peruse the aisles of your home improvement center, let your lifestyle be your guide.
About The Author
Kelly C. Richardson, MEd is a freelance writer and manic do-it-yourselfer. He specializes in home improvement projects ranging from savvy landscaping to house repair and beyond. Find out more about him at kellyrichardsoncopywriting.com.
