Countertops: Wood You Be My Surface? Part 2
Wood you be my surface? Maybe the question is: should wood be your surface? Magazines and websites show off beautiful live edge wood islands, butcher block countertops and other exotic wood surfaces throughout the home. Is it a good option?
Countertops and surfaces for kitchens, baths, libraries, and other interior spaces are an investment in your home. They are one of the most visible design elements, not to mention the importance of their functionality!
Wood is a beautiful, natural element and looks fabulous in many styles and settings. With the preponderance of white kitchens, adding contrasting colors and elements such as natural wood, creates visual interest and elevates the overall design.
Recycled wood countertop by Brooks Custom. Photo by: Michael Lefebvre
Belmont mudroom with wood elements warms up the space. The bench is end-grain inlaid in edge grain. Photo by: Michael Lefebvre
We recommend and love wood in mudrooms. Adding the warmth of wood counterbalances all the white.
When it comes to wood, the most important item to keep in mind is maintenance. Where engineered stone and even some natural stones can withstand more wear-and-tear, wood requires mindfulness to retain its beauty. Sometimes mineral oil and wax are simple solutions.
Wood and liquid don’t play well together! Wood must be sealed with a marine varnish to prevent staining, warping, and other damage. Just as with stone surfaces, never put anything hot directly onto a wood surface.
Wood Species and Grains
Some woods are more durable than others:
Mahagony surface from Bob Vila
Maple
Teak
Walnut
Mahogany
Red Oak or White Oak
Hickory
Cherry
Grains
End grain
Edge grain
Standard Plank
Live edge
A note about thickness: most wood surfaces come 1.5 inches thick but can be up to 6 inches. Two of our go-to sources for information and fabricating are Longleaf Lumber and Brooks Custom.
Next up: Surfaces in a wide range of other materials like glass, metal, tile and more.