Maple, oak, cherry, birch and teak are the most common types of wood used for wood countertops. The pros and cons, advantages and disadvantages of wood countertops will be explored in this article. Wood countertops add a natural, warm decorator touch when used in a room. Birch and teak are softer woods than the other woods and are used more for decorative purposes. Maple, oak and cherry are hard woods and withstand daily use when properly maintained. One important consideration when purchasing a wood countertop is the orientation of the grain.
Face or Plank Grain
Face grain is generally considered to be the most decorative grain orientation because it reveals the beauty of the board’s wood design. To make a countertop, planks are glued so that the wide side creates the countertop. This orientation of the wood is the most common one for decorative furniture and countertops. One disadvantage or con of this grain orientation is that the wood can be more easily damaged.
Edge or Stave Grain
By standing the plank or board on it side, an edge grain countertop is made. Because the long, thinner side of the board is revealed, the countertop’s design usually looks like rectangular puzzle pieces elegantly arranged for function and beauty. Edge grain is more durable than face grain but less so than end grain. One advantage of edge grain surfaces is that it makes an good work surface.
End Grain
By orienting the cut end of boards up, smaller rectangles form the countertop surface. Butcher block countertops are made this way. End grain countertops are the most durable and withstand cutting and chopping operations, such as the natural functions of a kitchen.
A Summary of the Pros and Cons of Wood Countertops
Pros:- Presents a warm, natural surface
- May be a renewable material if "green" practices are followed by harvester or the wood is recycled.
- Beautiful patterns and designs are available depending on the wood and grain.
- Stains and finishes can create a wider range of design choices. (For example, a checkerboard pattern can be chosen for a butcher block countertop).
- Provides a solid work surface for food preparation, depending on grain orientation.
- Won’t damage cutlery.
- Looks more beautiful with age and use.
Cons:
- Work surfaces require periodic maintenance with mineral oil or other wood treatment.
- Can be damaged by standing water if not properly maintained.
- Vinegar, for example, if not removed promptly from an unprotected surface can degrade the adhesive between boards.
- Will dent, scrape and chip more easily than other surfaces like stone, tile or laminate.
Author Caryn Colgan grew up in a DIY home and has been a professional writer since 1984.
