Wood countertops add warmth and charm to the kitchen.
Are you considering wood countertops for your kitchen remodel? Natural wood countertops add a warm and rustic element to the kitchen. However, homeowners who opt for wood countertops should know that they require more maintenance than marble, granite, or quartz countertops. For many homeowners who choose wood countertops, the extra effort is worth the unique and impressive aesthetic effect.
What Kinds of Wood are Used to Make Natural Wood Countertops?
Hardwoods are the wood of choice to make countertops that are suited for culinary use in the kitchen. This rules out softwoods such as pine. Hardwoods create a more durable surface that can withstand being cut upon with a knife as well as the general wear and tear of preparing food in the kitchen. There are several types of wood that you can choose from to create your natural wood countertops. Abundant woods like maple and bamboo are less costly and look excellent in the kitchen. If you want something more sophisticated, woods like walnut and cherry offer deep, rich natural colors and textures. For something more eco-friendly, you can opt for wood countertops made of local trees or reclaimed wood. There are so many options to choose from! You’re bound to find something unique that perfectly suits the personality of your kitchen.
How to Care for Your Wood Countertops
If you decide to incorporate unique wood countertops in your kitchen, you will be making a commitment to invest the proper amount of care into your countertops to keep them looking like new. When not properly cared for, wood countertops can become dull and even develop mold in severe cases. Because wood is a porous material, it’s especially important to make sure that you are cleaning the wood after cutting on it, since food debris can get trapped in the indentations left by the knife.
To properly maintain your wood countertops, you will need to make sure to immediately clean any spills and water, as standing liquids can cause long-lasting damage to wood. After cleaning up moisture, you can oil your natural wood countertops with butcher block oil two to three times per year. This will help them to maintain their shine and smooth texture. Simply drizzle the oil onto your countertop and gently rub in. Allow the counters to absorb the oil for 20 minutes. Wipe the excess oils off of your counters and enjoy your gleaming wood countertops! If this process seems like a worthwhile investment of time and effort, then wood countertops are right for you!
ELITE KITCHENS
Whether you’re looking for a remodel or an update, talk to one of our experts at Elite Kitchens about building your dream timeless bathroom remodel. With our excellent designers, installation process, and quality craftsmen, it’ll be the best investment you’ve made in your home. Contact us online, by calling 301-881-2776, or email us for a free estimate and assessment of your needs. All of our work is backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We look forward to meeting your remodeling needs for years to come! To see examples of our work and get more tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Houzz, and Pinterest.