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How To Pick The Best Wood Countertop Materials For Every Type Of Kitchen
By CAROL BENTON
Oak
This wood is durable and can stand up to everyday use. Red oak ranks 1290 on the Janka hardness scale, while white oak is harder, boasting a rating of 1360.
Oak is a budget-friendly choice and contributes an airy but warm vibe. It is susceptible to water damage, so it's important to have your countertops sealed for the kitchen.
Maple
In addition to their attractive coloration and grain, maple countertops can last 20 years or more and be stained to match any decor. Hard maple is a great choice.
After sealing the maple wood with a food-safe sealer, maintain it by wiping it clean of debris, then using a cleaning mixture of white vinegar, salt, and lemon juice to maintain.
Walnut
The deep chocolate coloring and graceful grain of walnut contribute a high-end look to any kitchen. It's also a stable wood that does not swell and shrink.
A clear coat of mineral oil is enough to provide a food-safe sealant for the countertop. Wipe it clean with dish soap and re-apply the oil periodically to maintain the surface.
Teak Wood
With its durability, water resistance, and germicidal properties, teak is an excellent choice for kitchen countertops, and the wood does not warp, splinter, or crack.
Teak resists mold and fungi growth as well as damage from termites, and there is no need for a sealer. However, oil treatments are recommended for longer-lasting wood.
Bamboo
Bamboo has a light coloration and a variety of grain patterns. It's harder and more durable than white oak and can resist the damage that might occur in a busy kitchen.
A bamboo countertop needs to be sealed with a food-safe product like mineral oil, beeswax, tung oil, or varnish and repeated regularly to make the bamboo non-porous.