Think all wooden work surfaces are the same? 5 interesting facts about a walnut worktop
Last Updated on April 1, 2021
When you are considering adding a wooden worktop to your kitchen, it can seem like an easy task.
With modern design features, many people opt for a wooden work surface that physically looks appealing, incorrectly assuming that all types of wood are the same. But, as any carpenter, woodworker or wooden worktop maker will tell you, they aren’t.
Of course, different wood types offer different hues, colours and grains as part of their finish, but the appearance is not the only thing that should be considered when choosing the perfect wood for your kitchen. Things like aftercare, durability and of course, price, should also be factored in when you are choosing the best solution for your worktop needs.
And, at House of Worktops, our team can help you choose the perfect wooden surface for all your kitchen needs. Our knowledge of wood is unbeatable, and we offer every type from a beautiful beech surface to a striking walnut worktop, all custom fitted for your kitchen. We guarantee that you will be pleased with any installation we make and that the wood we use is of the finest quality. Perfect!
But, what are the differences in the types of woods we use? In this article, we will focus on key facts about our trademark walnut worktop, to help you decide if it is right for your kitchen.
Colour variation
An interesting feature of walnut is that depending on which part of the tree is used, the finished colour will differ widely.
Indeed, renowned for its almost chocolate colouring, walnut can also be found in a different range of hues, with some even looking closer to a rich purple! As you can imagine, having a natural, purple walnut worktop will certainly give any kitchen a unique look!
Different types
A slow-growing tree, walnut comes in a variety of types as well as colours.
The most sought after types in relation to kitchen countertops include traditional English walnut, closely followed by white and even black walnut varieties.
Durable
Of the different types of walnut, black walnut from North America is the most durable, making it ideal for a kitchen that is busy! While all types of walnut can withstand weight, height and spillages, you must always remember to oil this wood regularly to keep it strong.
Bacteria resistant
Another interesting fact about walnut as a wood is its antibacterial properties.
Making it a perfect addition to a working kitchen, a walnut kitchen top has natural anti-microbial properties, meaning it will require minimal cleaning to keep it germ or bacteria free. Great stuff!
Warm
As odd as it sounds, one of the key features of walnut is that it is a very ‘warm’ wood. Black walnut which originates from the colder regions of North America has great heat retention, making it ideal for most kitchens. However, if you regularly work with dough or bread making, a colder type of wood, or even a stone surface will probably be more suitable for your kitchen needs.