It’s time to remodel and finally get that dream kitchen you have been wanting for so long. It’s amazing to think of what this new kitchen is going to mean to you and your family. You have your Pinterest board ready with everything that is going to make your kitchen just perfect.  

If you are like most people you spend a lot of time in your kitchen. Many of us dream of that oversized kitchen that has style, is easy to cook in, and can wow our guests when they come to visit. Unfortunately not every home is suited for a large kitchen, so you are left to dream and think of a future day when you can afford that larger home. When remodeling your kitchen you don’t have to wait to have the feel of a large kitchen in a big home. There are several things you can to do to give your smaller kitchen the appearance that it is larger than it really is. 

It doesn’t matter how comfortable the rest of the house is, people always tend to gravitate toward the kitchen. It could be kids working on a school project, friends hanging out and playing a game, or the aroma of those yummy chocolate chip cookies they can smell coming from the oven pulling them in. 

Most of us are familiar with popular countertop materials such as laminate and granite, but have you ever considered using wood instead? When you think of a beautiful piece of furniture it is the wood and the finish that make it so attractive.  With kitchens becoming an extension of our living areas and more open layouts, a wood countertop can add the perfect touch.  It can be both beautiful and functional.

Most people think of a butcher-block wood that you cut on when it comes to wood countertops. There is so much more to wood countertops. Similar to cabinets, they come in a variety of woods and finishes. They show off the natural wood grain and have a warmer feel than quartz or granite.  

Some woods are more durable than others. The hardness of the wood species varies. You will want to choose a harder wood that is more resistant to damage and denting. You can find this out by looking at the Janka Hardness Scale. The higher the number the harder and more durable the wood is. Along with hardness you will want to consider putting a protective sealant or finish. This will extend the life of your countertops.