Maple vs. Oak: Choosing the Right Wood for Your Sports Floor

Introduction
The choice between maple and oak impacts performance, aesthetics, and maintenance. This article compares the two.

Maple Flooring

Pros: High Janka hardness rating (1,450 lbf), uniform grain, and light color.
Cons: Higher cost, prone to dents if unfinished.
Oak Flooring

Pros: Affordable, distinctive grain patterns, and natural durability.
Cons: Softer than maple (Janka 1,290 lbf), may require more frequent refinishing.
Applications

Maple: NBA courts, high-traffic gyms.
Oak: Recreational centers, school auditoriums.
Conclusion
Maple is ideal for elite competition, while oak suits budget-conscious projects with lower usage.