Oak is an excellent choice when durability and lasting value are top concerns in choosing kitchen countertops. Oak is the most popular hardwood for custom countertops and furniture because of its strength, variety of natural shades and striking grain patterns. We have many satisfied customers who love the custom oak counters we’ve built for them.
Why is Oak So Popular?
White oak and red oak are two of the top five American hardwoods on the Janka Rating System. This means that oak can handle the daily wear and tear of being used as flooring and is one of the best choices for home and professional countertops. Oak is one of the most popular woods for butcher block countertops and cutting boards. Short of dropping a cast iron frying pan on your countertop or placing a hot pan directly on the wood, it would be difficult to damage your oak countertop.
In addition to its strength, oak is naturally resistant to rot and water damage. An oak countertop is a great choice for a home bar or a combination kitchen island and breakfast nook.
Oak’s Natural Beauty
White oak finished without stain is very popular among our clients who want a cool toned oak countertop for a kitchen decorated in light colors. It has an attractive but unimposing grain. Pale white oak is warmer than hickory or ash. White oak can also be golden or golden brown.
Red oak ranges from warm brown to dark brown. It has a smaller and more distinctive grain than white oak. Our clients frequently choose a red oak countertop for a kitchen island with a sink. Both red and white oak can be stained. Oak is usually stained when the customer wants a darker color but also wants the strength and water resistance of oak.
Reclaimed Oak
Reclaimed oak is one of the best quality reclaimed hardwoods because of its resilience in the face of exposure to the elements and harsh use. It normally shows less insect damage than other reclaimed hardwoods. If you want a countertop that’s rustic but not too distressed, a reclaimed oak countertop will meet your needs.
An Oak Countertop as an Investment
Antique oak countertops are still in use in homes, hotels, restaurants and taverns across the United States. When you select oak for your custom countertops, you’re choosing a wood that will always make you proud and will only increase in value. Oak brings traditional style to your home and a feeling of understated sophistication. Use, care and time will create a handsome patina on your oak countertop.
To see examples of stained and natural oak and reclaimed oak, contact Maryland Wood Countertops at 443-840-7373 for a consultation.
