All You Need to Know About Maple Kitchen Cabinets
If you're looking for a versatile hardwood that works with a variety of kitchen styles and is highly durable, maple wood is a great option. Maple kitchen cabinets take a variety of stains and give any traditional or modern kitchen a sophisticated and inviting feel. Aesthetically, this hardwood also stands the test of time allowing you to refresh your kitchen's look throughout the years with simple changes to your decor or accessories like cabinet knobs or handles.
A few varieties of maple trees are native to North America and widely found in forests throughout the Eastern Coast of the United States, making it one of the most accessible cabinet wood species. Maple trees are recognized for their sturdy and attractive timber therefore, you can rest assured that you're choosing high-quality and long-lasting cabinets for your kitchen. Keep reading below for all the information you need on maple wood kitchen cabinets including key characteristics, popular finishes, average costs, and more.
Maple Kitchen Cabinets
Whether you're just starting to look for inspiration to revamp your kitchen or you're ready to start your renovation project, below is a breakdown on this elegant yet sturdy American hardwood.
Characteristics of Maple Wood
Maple kitchen cabinets usually have a smooth grain and a non-porous surface making them a great option for a variety of finishes and paints. On some maple wood kitchen cabinets, you may also find varying bird's eye dots, mineral streaking, and curling grain. These cabinets can be stained in an array of shades including its natural honey color, brown, ivory, grey, and deeper cherry reds. You can also paint them in non-traditional colors for a uniquely-styled kitchen.
Tip: With natural colored maple, exposure to heat and UV rays will deepen its signature honey color. Therefore, if you prefer bright kitchens, choosing a lighter stain for your cabinets will ensure you maintain that open, light-filled look.
Maple Kitchen
Cabinet Finishes
Since maple wood can take multiple stains and finishes, you'll have plenty of options to play with to achieve the aesthetic you desire. Here are some common finishes for your maple wood kitchen cabinets and the general appearance of each, to help you build the kitchen of your dreams.
Tip: In addition to personal style and preference, a great way to decide on a finish is to consider the amount of natural light that reaches your kitchen. If you have plenty of sunlight, choose a finish that will protect your cabinets from damage and yellowing caused by UV rays.
A stain is applied on wood to change the color and protect your cabinets from damage. On maple wood, a stain will give your cabinets a more natural and rustic look in the color you choose. You can still apply an additional finish to your stained maple cabinets to achieve a different aesthetic.
All-natural cabinets will require a varnish as a finish should you decide to apply nothing else. Varnished maple cabinets will have better durability and heat resistance. A varnish is great for maple wood cabinets because it protects from age-related yellowing which can be common in this type of wood.
A glaze is applied when you wish to add depth or accentuate certain details of your wooden cabinets. For deeper mahogany stains, glazed maple cabinets can accentuate the natural properties of your cabinets and create a much richer and elegant look.
If you appreciate the raw look and color of maple wood, leaving it in its natural state is also possible. Natural maple kitchen cabinets are an excellent option for rustic, minimalist, or ranch-style kitchens as they give off an organic feel. You can still treat your cabinets with a clear protective layer but keep in mind that durability can vary.
Cost of Maple
Kitchen Cabinets
The investment you'll make in your new maple wood cabinets will vary depending on the size of your kitchen. Buying ready-to-assemble (RTA) kitchen cabinets online can significantly reduce costs and time. A standard 10- by 12-foot kitchen equipped with top-and-bottom maple RTA cabinets can run from $2,500 to $6,000. Any required demo work, custom installation aspects, and custom fitting can also add up labor costs.
Tip: Installation prices vary by region and even zip code, be sure to look for averages in your area to help you determine your overall budget. RTA cabinets are a great way to save money as they can be assembled in 10 to 20 minutes. This tool can help estimate the cost of your kitchen remodel.
Maple Kitchen Cabinet Ideas
Feeling inspired by all the beautiful finishes and styles available in maple kitchen cabinets? Here are some additional maple wood cabinet ideas for traditional, modern, and ivory style kitchens.
For a traditional kitchen, opt for dark maple wood and black granite countertops.
Create a bright, open space with ivory maple cabinets and dark accessories.
A fun backsplash and colorful maple cabinets create a modern aesthetic.
Maple Wood Design Inspiration
Maple Kitchen Cabinets FAQs
Get all of your questions on maple kitchen cabinets answered below. If you're interested in other kitchen styles, get inspired by our gallery of kitchen cabinet ideas.
Pros
- More durable than oak, birch, or pine and highly suitable for cabinetwork
- Maple cabinet doors stand up to daily use while resisting dings and dents.
- Incredibly versatile hardwood. It's the perfect canvas for a variety of paints or finishes.
- Maple cabinets are easy to obtain in many styles to suit any budget or kitchen design.
Cons
- Can occasionally lose their luster when exposed to direct sunlight over several years.
- Long-lasting and durable cabinets, like maple wood, can be costlier.
Is maple wood good for kitchen cabinets?
Maple wood is recognized for its durability, fine texture, and smooth uniform grain which allows it to easily take a variety of stains and finishes. Naturally, this makes it an excellent choice for kitchen cabinets of any style and budget.
Are maple cabinets outdated?
Since maple wood kitchen cabinets are incredibly versatile, they're far from outdated. They're highly durable and with the right finishes, they can fit in perfectly with any aesthetic whether it's a traditional or modern kitchen. Below are some ways you can achieve different kitchen styles with beautiful kitchen cabinets from our catalog.
- Richmond Kitchen Cabinets: For more natural maple wood cabinets, this timeless honey stained finish is perfect to make your kitchen look open and bright.
- Graystone Shaker Kitchen Cabinets: Maple wood can also accommodate a modern-style kitchen when stained with non-traditional shades like this sleek gray.
- Cherryville Kitchen Cabinets: To put together a traditional kitchen, going for a deeper cherry red will create a warm and inviting space.
What flooring goes with maple cabinets?
The flooring you choose for your maple wood kitchen will very much depend on personal preference and desired kitchen design. However, if you want to enhance the warm and homey feel that maple wood cabinets typically bring to your home, we recommend light and neutral colored tile in cream or beige. Light-colored or matching hardwood floors also help make your space look put together and cohesive.
What color granite goes with honey maple cabinets?
For a grounding and cozier look, consider dark or slate gray granite countertops. To create the appearance of a larger and brighter kitchen, white, or lightly speckled granite goes perfectly well with honey maple cabinets.
Whatever your budget and style, maple kitchen cabinets are an excellent choice if you're looking for something durable, versatile, and simply beautiful to bring your kitchen together. Gather some inspiration from this guide and get your free kitchen design to get started. Once you have a layout ready, shop for kitchen cabinets online to save you both time and money when designing your dream kitchen.