When it comes to building cabinets and fixtures (or anything for that matter!) the material used can greatly impact the end result. In the realm of cabinets and fixtures, the most common species we see used are hard maple, soft maple, and poplar. All three woods have their own unique characteristics, making them suitable for different types of projects.
Hard Maple
Hard maple, also known as sugar maple, is one of the most popular choices for furniture and cabinet making. It's known for its density and hardness, making it an ideal choice for high-use items such as kitchen cabinets, countertops, and flooring. It's also a very stable wood, with a uniform grain pattern, making it an ideal choice for intricate and detailed pieces. Hard maple is typically more expensive than soft maple and poplar, but it is also one of the most durable woods available. This is good and bad, as it makes it more difficult to machine, and it's far more prone to grain tear out when moulded than soft maple or poplar.
Soft Maple
Soft maple, commonly known as red maple, is a more affordable option compared to hard maple. It's not as hard or as dense, but it is still a strong and durable wood. It's the most popular species we offer amongst our cabinet shop customers. Soft maple is often used for cabinet boxes, drawers, and other parts of cabinets where strength is not as critical. It also has a beautiful grain pattern that can add interest to a piece. Soft maple is a good choice for projects where you want a maple look with easier work-ability. Compared to hard maple, soft maple generally machines more easily (it tears out less) and also takes stains a bit more easily than hard maple.
Poplar
Poplar is known for its versatility and affordability. It's relatively soft and lightweight, making it very easy to work with (especially compared to hard and soft maple). On top of machining far more easily than hard and soft maple, we generally find poplar to be flatter, and it tends to bow and cup far less.
Poplar is often used for furniture and cabinet parts that will be painted, as its uniform texture makes it ideal for this type of finish. It is also a great choice for projects where a lighter color is desired, as it has a light to medium yellow color. Poplar is not as durable as hard or soft maple, but it is still a good choice for many projects.
At the end of the day each of these three wood species has its own unique characteristics that make it ideal for different types of projects. Hard maple is an ideal choice for projects that require durability and stability, while soft maple is a good option for budget-conscious projects going for the hard maple look. Poplar is an ideal choice for projects that will be painted or where a lighter color is desired. When selecting wood for your next cabinet or fixture building project, it's important to consider the intended use, budget, and desired aesthetics.
Want to learn more about domestic hardwood species? Click here to read more about ash, cherry, and walnut, and here to read about red and white oak.