Is there a difference between an oak and a prime oak worktop? House of Worktops has the answer!
Last Updated on April 19, 2023
Unless you are a carpenter or have an extensive knowledge of every wood type, it can be easy to assume that two wood types with a similar name share similar qualities; in this instance, oak and prime oak.
It is an easy mistake but there are a few notable differences between these wood types, making it all the more important to know some background information when choosing the ideal one for your kitchen work surface.
Oak, one of the most well-known wood types and trees in the world, offers a timeless quality in any kitchen worktop. With its distinctive grain, durability and anti-bacterial features, oak makes a great choice for any kitchen which is looking for a long-lasting, attractive surface.
So, how exactly does prime oak differ? Is it significant and, most importantly, will it make it more or less ideal for your kitchen?
When you come to House of Worktops, our team will be able to help you choose the perfect wood for your kitchen, based on your individual requirements. Selecting the ideal surface for you based on aesthetics and durability, we can help you choose whether a walnut or a prime oak worktop is the best fit for your home and your needs.
Want to know how a prime oak worktop differs from a regular oak worktop? Read on to find out!
Appearance
In a traditional rustic kitchen, you can expect to see a few minor imperfections in any wooden surface. After all, wood in itself is not naturally flawless and this adds to the charm of the finish.
A traditional oak surface often has few natural spots and discoloured patches throughout the grain, whereas prime oak is designed to be more aesthetically flawless.
A prime oak worktop is made of staves that are hand-selected for their aesthetic appearance, meaning that the final result looks more flawless. So, if you are looking for a more modern-looking wood for your kitchen, prime oak is the way to go!
Warmth
As mentioned in many wooden worktop articles, oak is able to offer a warming quality to any kitchen surface; if you place a warm plate directly onto it, the natural grain will help the plate to stay warm.
However, as prime oak selection is based more on appearances, it can lose some of its heat-retaining qualities. Of course, it is still able to keep trays, plates and cups warm, but has the potential to lose heat quicker than traditional oak.
Staining
When it comes to aesthetic choices, staining is an important factor.
Every wood surface that we offer at House of Worktops will be finished with a sealant to keep stains to a minimum but, when comparing oak and prime oak, it is easier to keep prime oak stain free.
Due to its minimal graining and more polished surface, it is less able to absorb liquids, making it harder to stain than traditional oak. But, you should always use a suitable, bleach-free cleaning agent when removing marks from prime oak.