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.

Wood countertops are not for everyone. So when considering using them in your custom kitchen or bath remodel you will want to consider the lifestyle of your household.  How will they be used and how much abuse will they take? The following is a list of pros and cons that will help you decide if using a wood countertop in your kitchen or bathroom is right for you.

Pros

•       Variety of wood species
•       Multiple colors of stains and finishes
•       Ecofriendly
•       Add warmth and personality
•       Wood species show off the detail of the natural wood grain

Cons

•       More maintenance and upkeep - may need to be resealed with a protective treatment 
•       Susceptible to water damage
•       Unattended spills can damage adhesives that bond wood together
•       Scratch, chip and dent more easily than other countertop surfaces

Our kitchen professionals at Brakur Custom Cabinetry can help you decide if wood countertops are the right option for your kitchen or bath remodel. If you would like to talk to one of design experts and learn more about using wood countertops in your remodel you can contact us here.

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