Oak is one of the most popular choices of material for worktops in the UK, and with good reason. It is very tough, durable and hardwearing, making it well-suited to use as a kitchen worktop. Though there are obviously stronger materials on the market, oak worktops can withstand a great deal of the punishment suffered in a busy kitchen environment, especially considering they are made of wood. Oak worktops don�t easily dent or scratch, and with the right maintenance can last for many years.
As was as being practical, oak worktops are also aesthetically pleasing. They benefit from a tight grain structure and are attractive in colour. This is particularly true of single stave oak worktops, whose interesting grain patterns are accentuated by unbroken lengths of timber. Traditionally oak worktops have mainly been used as part of rustic kitchen designs, however in recent times oak worktops have become a staple of contemporary kitchens. Oak�s simple elegance fits nicely with modern minimalist styles, and its colouring can be adjusted through staining and oiling to match surrounding kitchen furniture.
Another advantage of selecting an oak worktop is that, like all solid wood worktops, they are very easy to cut and install. Oak worktops can be easily fitted by anyone who is competent with power tools and has a good eye for measuring, allowing buyers to avoid having to source the sort of specialist installation and equipment that is required to fit other worktops such as stone.
The longevity of oak makes it a sound economic choice for worktop construction, as well as the fact that it is cheaper than most other wooden worktops, such as walnut, iroko, wenge and zabrano. Plus, even in cases where oak worktops do become scratched or chipped, the damage can be quickly sanded out and the area re-stained.
