Wood Countertop Material Description
Wood countertops can add warmth and natural beauty to any kitchen. National brands include Craft-Art and Endurawood. They can be used throughout the entire kitchen or just in select areas. Many different wood choices are available. Butcher block kitchen countertops are very popular because the surface can be used for chopping and cutting.
Other types of wood kitchen countertops are also available. Lacquered, veneered hardwood or oiled planks of solid woods such as hard maple, red oak, and teak are commonly recommended by professional fabricators.
Butcher-block countertops provide a durable surface designed to be cut and chopped on. The surface is unaffected by moderate heat exposure such as crock pots, toasters, and griddles. It typically does not chip, crack, or break without significant abuse, and it is a very re-finishable and modifiable surface.
Drawbacks of the butcher block countertop are that it requires regular maintenance. Most professionals recommend re-oiling with a pure white mineral oil every four to six weeks, as well as occasional sanding to remove minor nicks and scratches. It is also susceptible to staining, absorbing odors, and trapping bacteria if not properly cleaned and maintained.
Lacquered or oiled planks of solid hardwood are aesthetically very warm and rich. These types of woods should not be used to cut or chop on as they can easily be scratched or nicked. They are also susceptible to stains, odors, and bacteria, and can sustain damage with exposure to moisture.
Butcher block countertops are good choices for both residential and commercial countertops as long as they are cleaned and maintained properly and regularly. Lacquered or oiled planks of solid hardwood are more commonly found in residential settings. However, these types of counters are prized because of the wide variety of aesthetics that can be achieved using various types of wood and various edge treatments.
In general, wood countertops are very repairable and renewable surfaces. Scratches, burns, and crackscan be sanded down and refinished.
Manufacturers:
- Look for a local fabricator that specializes in wood counter fabrication.
- Craft-Art
- Endurawood
PROS
Can be used as a cutting surface. Warm appearance and feel.
CONS
Scratches easily and is not very heat resistant. If not sealed properly, water can damage the wood especially around the sink.
CARE & CLEANING
Clean with warm soapy water. Seal monthly with oil (ask fabricator for correct oil type).
WARRANTY
A set of 130 elements, perfectly fitting each other. Click, drag, resize, adapt, combine, just like that
COSTS
The installed price for wood countertops generally ranges from $50 to $100 per square foot. However, the cost of custom, exotic wood countertops can be as high as $100 to $200 per square foot.