Wood for kitchen countertops is a popular addition that can add warmth and natural beauty to any space. But with so many different types of wood available, it can be difficult to know which one is the best choice for your kitchen.
Many types of hardwood can serve as countertops, but softwoods like pine and cedar are not good options. These woods chip, dent, and scratch too easily to hold up to the rigors of butcher block kitchen countertops.
Fortunately, there are plenty of hardwoods that fit the bill. Here’s a look at the best wood options for kitchen countertops, along with their benefits and drawbacks.
1. Maple
Maple is a popular choice of wood for kitchen countertops due to its durability, hardness, and resistance to scratches and wear. It has a tight, uniform grain pattern that can range from a light creamy color to a pale reddish-brown.
Another benefit to maple wood is that it’s a versatile wood that can be stained to match any kitchen decor. The only downside to maple is that it can be prone to discoloration over time, especially if it is exposed to direct sunlight. That’s why it’s best to use it in butler pantries or other areas away from windows and the bright sun.
2. Cherry
Cherry is another excellent choice of wood for countertops due to its durability, natural beauty, and resistance to scratches and dents. It has a rich, warm color that can vary from a light red to a deep reddish-brown. Cherry is also known for its unique grain pattern, which can include small knots and dark streaks.
Cherry wood for kitchen counters is a great choice, but it does come with some drawbacks. Primarily, it is relatively soft compared to other hardwoods. This makes it more prone to dents and scratches, which is less than ideal for kitchen counters.
3. Oak
Oak is a classic wood choice that has been used for centuries for kitchen countertops. It has a unique, open-grain pattern that can vary from a light tan to a deep golden brown. Oak is also a hard and durable wood that can resist scratches and dents.
Despite oak’s durability, it does have one significant downside. This wood can be prone to water damage if it’s not properly sealed. If you choose to seal your oak countertops on your own, make sure you use a food-safe sealant. This will ensure that any food you prepare on your new butcher block counters is safe for human consumption.
4. Walnut
Walnut is a luxurious wood that can add elegance and warmth to any kitchen. It has a rich, dark color that can range from a deep brown to a moody purplish-black. Like any other wood suitable for a countertop, walnut is also a hard and durable wood that can resist scratches and wear.
Walnut is popular for its beautifully deep hues, but it comes at a steep price. It’s on the higher end of the price spectrum when compared to other woods, but most people consider it to be worth the cost.
5. Teak
Teak is a tropical hardwood that is known for its durability and resistance to water damage. It has a unique, tight grain pattern that can range from a golden brown to a deep brown. Teak is also a hardwood that can resist scratches and dents.
These amazing characteristics make teak a popular choice for kitchen tables and butcher block countertops alike. The single drawback to teak as a countertop is that it can be relatively expensive compared to other wood options.
6. Bamboo
Bamboo is a sustainable and eco-friendly wood for countertops that is growing in popularity. It has a unique, grass-like appearance and can come in various colors from light yellow to dark brown. Bamboo is also a hard and durable wood that can resist scratches and wear.
The only downside to bamboo is that, like oak, it can be prone to water damage if it is not properly sealed. This can easily be remedied with a proper, food-safe sealant. It may need to be resealed periodically to ensure its continued resistance to water damage.
What Is the Best Wood For Kitchen Counters?
As you can see, there are many different types of wood for kitchen counters, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. It is important to consider factors such as durability, resistance to scratches and wear, and resistance to water damage when choosing wood for your kitchen countertops.
There is no one right choice of wood for countertops. The right wood for you will depend on your needs and preferences. Some of the best wood options for kitchen countertops include maple, cherry, oak, walnut, teak, and bamboo. Whichever choice you choose, your new wood countertops are sure to add warmth and natural beauty to your kitchen for years to come.
Upgrade Your Countertops With Mountain States Kitchen and Bath
Are you ready to enjoy the beauty and warmth that wood counters can bring to your home? Mountain States Kitchen and Bath is here to help every step of the way. We offer a wide range of wood for kitchen countertops as well as premium granite countertops.
New countertops, whether wood, granite, or any other materials, are a surefire way to upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen and your entire home. That’s why our team of professionals is here to help you create the kitchen of your dreams, from custom cabinetry to high-quality countertops and everything in between.
We specialize in remodeling kitchens and bathrooms across the Wasatch Front, from Spanish Fork to Salt Lake City, Utah, and everywhere in between. Contact us today to learn more about what we have to offer, or swing by our showroom in Lehi, Utah, and see some of our beautiful options and designs for yourself.
We’ll be happy to answer any questions or schedule an in-home consultation with you. Let us help you design the home of your dreams. We can’t wait to work with you!
