You have before your eyes a magnificent wooden floor. However, you are unable to distinguish whether it is a cherry wood floor or a maple wood floor. It can be difficult for the untrained eye to recognize the different characteristics of each.
Both belonging to the category of medium-hard woods, cherry and maple are often classified among the noble species. Both are known for their high resistance and share several characteristics, which is why it may seem difficult to distinguish them at first glance.
How to differentiate wood species
There are a few techniques for recognizing wood species. These techniques are often used by antique dealers who want to identify what type of wood the furniture in front of them is made of in order to judge its value.
To properly identify a wood species, you should start by observing its grain. Each species has its own unique grain pattern. This is why the grain is one of the most accurate identification criteria. Look at the patterns that form, the spots, and the color of the grain.
Next, you should examine to see if you notice any alterations such as a layer of paint or oil that could distort your interpretation. Other questions regarding the hardness of the wood and its color are also part of the identification criteria, but they are less reliable than the grain pattern.
The visual characteristics of cherry wood
Basically, cherry wood is a pale wood with brown or pinkish reflections. At the time of cutting, the wood is not very colorful but it acquires its warm hue over time. The surface is uniform, showing little grain and a relatively uniform finish considering it is a natural wood species. However, you can recognize a certain very subtle circular grain pattern.
The visual characteristics of maple wood
The natural shade of maple is rather pale and when exposed to sunlight, the coating may tend to fade even more. Basically, maple wood is white or “blonde”, with shades that sometimes lean towards golden yellow. The effect of time also increases the golden appearance of the wood.
The grain of maple is visible, while being rather harmonious, as this type of wood is very little porous, thus creating few opportunities for very distinctive spots to form.
Summary of the differences between cherry and maple
First, there is a difference in shade. Cherry has pinkish or brownish reflections, while maple is more yellow. In general, the wood grain of maple is also more visible than that of cherry. If the wood has been left in its natural state, these two criteria are usually sufficient to know if you have a cherry or maple floor. Otherwise, you may need to strip a small section to see the bare wood, allowing you to better identify it.
Still in doubt? Entrust the task to expert eyes
You may be trying to identify the wood species of the floor to carry out renovations, or to better understand the reactions of the wood and how it ages. If the clues presented in the previous paragraphs have not helped guide you, do not hesitate to call upon the knowledge of an expert in the field of flooring.
They will be able to help you identify whether it is cherry or maple, and share maintenance and renovation advice that is adapted to these materials.
