Maple is a nearly non-porous wood and it can't absorb dark stains very easily. Dark-stained maple tends to look blotchy — it's a characteristic of the wood, not the stain.All woods change color with time, and maple tends to grow more yellow with age. That's another characteristic to be aware of.The clearer the maple, the more expensive it tends to be. Natural flaws such as mineral streaks and pin knots tend to lower the grade and the price of a maple floor.Maple pros: Hard and dent resistent Cons: Doesn't hold dark stains well Cost: $7-$16 per square foot Suggested uses: Living areas, hallways, entryways and kitchensMore:An Introduction to Solid Plank Wood FloorsWhen to Use Engineered Wood FloorsLaminate Floors: Get the Look of Wood (and More) for LessZebra, Tiger and Teak Wood, Oh, My!5 Innovative Wood Floors20 Great Examples of Transitions in FlooringMore flooring guides