Nothing feels and looks as nice as wood. No wonder that wood as a countertop or cabinet front is becoming increasingly popular in the kitchen.
Wood makes you feel at home
Wood creates comfort and regulates the indoor climate. No wonder that wood is now more often found in the heart of the house, the kitchen, and not just for individual elements such as cutting boards or cabinet doors, but throughout the entire room, from the floor to kitchen cabinets and shelves.
Suitable types of wood for the kitchen
Actually, all types of wood are suitable for use in the kitchen. Oak and walnut have established themselves as the favorites because they are particularly hardwoods. The rule that all wood in the room should come from the same family is no longer true. Wood species may be mixed, which gives an individual look to any space, not just for the kitchen. Rough oak is the current wood on trend because its relief makes the surfaces look more exciting.
In order to be as protected as possible, the wood is covered with film-forming materials. They must have increased resistance to scratches, mechanical shocks, frost, and moisture. Since it’s possible for wood to come into contact with water and to change its dimensions in contact with humidity, it must be as well isolated as possible. All surfaces must be covered, including the edges. No matter how durable the finish is, if it’s not done everywhere, it will crumble.
If you want to achieve a natural effect, it’s possible to use low gloss lacquers that give the impression that the wood has not been finished, waxed or oiled. Wax is beautiful but it has low resistance and it will be very difficult to maintain in the kitchen. With oils, however, beautiful and durable finishes are achieved, especially if the wood is hard. There are also very resistant, catalyzed oils that create very hard surfaces. They can also be used for hardwood floors.
Wood maintenance
As a general rule: be careful with microfiber cloths, because they have the same effect as sandpaper on wood. Only wipe dirt with a slightly damp cloth in the direction of the wood structure. Never resort to abrasive products! Acidic or chemical cleaners can damage the wood surface.
Every one to three years you should refresh the wood protection with a natural oil, wax or paint. This way, you make sure that the wood surfaces are protected against any external factors. Keep in mind that direct sunlight can change the wood color, so you might want to consider avoiding too dark colors that can lose some of their rich hues in time.
Countertops made of wood
Countertops made of wood? Most people would advise you against them. Why? Because daily kitchen work leaves its mark even on the hardwood.
If you still don’t want to give up on this idea, you should always use a chopping board to work on wood countertops and make sure that the kitchen hob and sink are not damaging the wood and the edges are well sealed. The faucet should be wall mounted, so water doesn’t accumulate at the base. Hot pots or dishes belong on a heat protective mat! Anyone who regularly refreshes the protection of the work surface will get to enjoy it for a long time.
Wooden floor for the kitchen
Wooden floors require more maintenance work than tiles because they react to heat, moisture, and light. For floor heating, they are only partially suitable. But no other surface is so warm, can regulate the indoor climate so well and convey comfort as wood. To protect a wooden floor, special oils and hard wax are best suited. Special soaps dissolved in the water used for wiping protect the surface every time you clean it. Just don’t forget to always wipe the floor clean and prevent water damage!
If you’re considering a kitchen remodeling, regardless what type of project you have in mind or what type of materials you want to use, contact the Good Deal Remodeling team and we will be happy to walk you through all the steps and help you make the best decisions.