What You Need To Know About Wood Countertops

I just love the look of a wood countertop paired with a bright white cabinet. Whether modern or country, it just looks so clean and fresh. Wood, or butcherblock, countertops bring a sense of warmth into a space. These countertops are available in many varieties of wood, from cherry to maple to walnut.

Benefits and Care
Wood countertops are a great choice for their durability and strength. Just think of them as a piece of furniture, and that is how you should care for them. They can nick and dent just like furniture, so be sure not to bang pans on them. Additionally, it is recommended that you use use a trivet for hot pots to avoid scorching. Since wood can scratch, a cutting board is probably a good idea. (You've seen the way wooden cutting boards can really show wear and tear? You don't want that same look on your wood countertops.)

Sealing and Cleaning
Wood countertops definitely require a sealant before use, to protect you as well as the wood itself. There are a number of oils and waxes you can use to seal and maintain the beauty of your wood. Small scratches and imperfections can be buffed out and the counters can be resealed to bring them back to their original beauty. Butcherblock is easy to clean using just soap and warm water.

How Does It Measure Up?
Butcherblock is a great choice for any kitchen. If you are committed to taking care of the wood through periodic oiling and the use of trivets and cutting boards, then go for it! The beauty and warmth of the wood is something that you just can't get from cold stone or an engineered surface. Butcherblock costs less than granite, marble, and engineered stone. It is slightly more expensive than tile countertops, but you can also DIY them! One of the best benefits is that you can install one yourself. Check out This Old House's instructions on installing a wood countertop.