Wood worktops
by beautifulkitchens • May 14, 2013 • Finishing touches, Worktops • 0 Comments
A debate has raged recently in the Beautiful Kitchens offices about what’s the best material to choose for worktops. The new composites are a popular choice. They’re tough and have a continuity of colour or pattern that appeals to those that don’t like the variations nature can offer. Interestingly, though many of us seem to be moving back to loving wood – particularly if it’s to go with cabinetry in a cool white (more of that tomorrow).
Of course wood does have its issues – undermounting sinks with wood can be problematic as it can expose the ends of your timber to water ingress on a regular basis – but used well and treated regularly it can add real character to a room and will last for years. If fact, I think that wood can improve with age and use, giving it a patina that speaks volumes about great food and family get togethers.
A ceramic inset sink is great alternative to an undermounted sink with wood worktops
Frame your cabinetry with a richly coloured stave worksurface
Pale wood tops look beautiful against painted cabinetry
This country-style kitchen has extra deep wood island worktops and a rich dark wood table
Add a wood breakfast bar to give warmth to a modern scheme
The key to any good wood worktop is in the pre-treating and subsequent caring. Oil it well as soon as it is installed and for at least once a week for a month afterwards, then once a month for the next few months, then top up as required. A good way to tell if your wooden worktop needs treating is to drop a little water on it and if it sits on the surface in a bead then your top is still waterproof. If the water starts to soak in after a short while then you need to get that oil out and give it a good going over.
Ysanne
Read more →
