Wooden countertops were popular in the 1990s, and today they’re gaining popularity again, especially in the kitchen.

They lend a more organic and rustic feel compared to other options like stone and marble.

Most countertops in Malaysian homes are crafted from teak, cherry, oak and maple.

Each type of wood comes in its own special shade of brown with its own unique vein patterns that are like fingerprints. No two wooden countertops are alike.

Some wooden countertops are stained with food-safe dyes to enhance their uniqueness and appeal. These stains usually bring out the grains of the wooden surface.

However, just like any other countertop, wood surfaces have their pros and cons as well.

Benefits

1. Uniquely attractive

There’s no denying that wooden countertops are elegant. They may be old school, but they’re also the only type of material that promotes a rustic and relaxing ambience in your kitchen.

Pair them with polished wooden flooring and wooden cabinets, or with stone walls and alcoves.

2. Makes for a great work surface

As wooden countertops are warmer than stone or marble ones, they are ideal for tenderising and processing meat. They’re also gentle on knives and won’t wear the blades down as quickly.

3. Environmentally friendly

Yes, wooden countertops are environmentally friendly because they’re recyclable, which means that new countertops can be designed from reclaimed wood and old countertops can be recycled for other uses.

After all, wood is sustainable and can be regrown, which makes it a very eco-friendly choice.

Drawbacks

1. Requires proper sealing

Wooden countertops must be properly sealed with several layers of sealant so water is prevented from seeping into the wood.

If the sealing layer is not executed properly and water does seep down into the wood, it will trigger the growth of fungi and bacteria, and ultimately result in the decomposition and rotting of the wood.

2. Requires regular maintenance

Wooden countertops must be refinished periodically and special oils rubbed into the wood every week to help ensure that the surface is not exposed to harmful elements.

3. Prone to scratches and dents

Unfortunately, wood is also prone to scratches and dents. This means that you’ll have to be extra careful when preparing food at the countertop.

However, some homeowners regard these marks as normal wear and tear that give the surface its own character over time.

This article first appeared in kaodim.com

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