DIY and pre-fab wood countertops…worth it?
Wood countertops have come a long way in the last few years. Many of the old objections that used to play a factor in the decision making process for home owners no longer apply. “They cant bear the heat of a hot pot just off the stove”, “they leave rings if you let water sit”, “you cant thoroughly clean them with everyday household chemicals!”…ancient problems from the early days of wood countertops
Quality wood finishes these days are capable of carrying a lifetime guarantee because they protect the top from , household chemicals, they are almost always 100% waterproof and scratch resistant to boot! Biggest problem being…they aren’t available for the average DIY-er. These finish products require carefully mixing several different FDA approved chemicals, and some serious know-how when being applied in a safe area like a spray booth. This means a lot of the old objections mentioned above still applies to pre-fabricated tops with messy butt joints, or crafty DIY-ers who want the warm and natural essence of a wood surface in their new home.
The recent popularity and, hopefully, longevity of the DIY craze has made many at home projects not only do-able, but fun and engaging. I have a hard time not getting behind homeowners rolling up their sleeves and getting their hands dirty on a project, but before you start picking out the most beautiful boards at your local lumber yard, make sure you ask what is important to you with the quality, use, and durability of your new wood countertop.
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