Considering Wood Kitchen Countertops? 19 Things Experts Want You to Know

Wood kitchen countertops bring natural warmth and character to any home—but they also come with care requirements that other materials don’t. Whether you’re installing a butcher block in your Seattle, WA home or sealing reclaimed oak in a home in Brooklyn, NY, these expert tips in this Redfin article will help you pick the right wood, finish it correctly, and keep it looking great for years to come.

How to choose the right wood for your kitchen countertops

Choosing the right type of wood is the first, and most important, step in installing wood countertops that are both beautiful and long-lasting.

1. Plan for long-term durability and upkeep

“Wood countertops are unique because you can sand and refinish them over time,” notes Woodshop QC. “This extends their lifespan compared to materials that need full replacement. Just keep in mind, wood is softer and can dent or stain easily, so it needs a bit more care. With cutting boards, trivets, and quick cleanups, your counters will age gracefully and gain character.”

2. Pick durable hardwoods that last

“It’s important to choose dense hardwoods like mahogany, hard maple, or white oak,” says CZ Woodworking. “They’re not just beautiful—they’ll hold up over time, even with regular use. Softer woods may look nice but can wear quickly without constant care.”

3. Balance charm with practicality

“Wood countertops bring a classic warmth to any space, especially when stained in a natural tone,” adds Alex K. Liang. “Butcher block styles are popular for food prep, and woods like pine or oak offer some antimicrobial properties. Still, wood doesn’t resist heat or moisture like granite, so you’ll need to be mindful with use. If you want charm on a budget, wood can be a great option.”

4. Choose reclaimed wood for unique character

“Reclaimed barn wood countertops bring a one-of-a-kind rustic vibe,” says Michigan Reclaimed Barns & Lumber. “They instantly elevate a room without making it feel like a hunting lodge. Because they’re custom-made, you get a surface tailored to your space, with a look you can’t get from mass-produced materials.”

5. Support local and go non-toxic

“As a butcher, I rely on butcher block for durability and ease of care,” shares Old Station Craft Meats. “Wood might need more maintenance than stone, but it can last forever with the right products. We use a non-toxic conditioner from a local beekeeper—it’s made with beeswax and food-safe oils, and it works beautifully.”

6. Make sustainable choices that last

“There’s a reason wood has been used for centuries—it’s timeless, repairable, and deeply connected to nature,” says Greenhome. “You can sand and refinish it instead of replacing it, which makes it more sustainable than many modern materials. When you source wood locally, you’re not only adding warmth to your space—you’re making an environmentally sound choice.”

7. Consider finish and tone when choosing wood type

“When picking hardwood countertops, think about style, tone, and finish,” explains ATX Boards. “Live edge styles and natural grain variations bring uniqueness without needing paint or stain. Walnut gives a rich, dark tone, while maple creates a bright, airy look. I love using tung oil mixed with citrus solvent—it soaks deep and leaves a food-safe finish.”

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How to seal and finish wood countertops

Once you’ve chosen the right wood, the next step is making sure it’s sealed and finished correctly to stand up to daily kitchen use.

8. Seal wood countertops based on the room

“Maple and walnut are ideal for kitchens, while teak is the best choice for bathrooms because it naturally resists water,” explains Mangrove Designs. “Wherever you install them, sealing with food-safe mineral or tung oil is a must. And don’t skip routine maintenance—reapplying oil every few months will keep the wood protected and looking great.”

9. Choose the right sealant for how you’ll use it

“If you’re prepping food directly on the surface, go with food-grade mineral oil and board butter,” says The Boardsmith. “But if the countertop isn’t used for cooking, a product like Rubio Monocoat or polyurethane will give you a longer-lasting finish. Each sealing method works differently, so it really depends on how you plan to use the space.”

10. Don’t underestimate proper sealing

“One of the biggest mistakes is skipping the sealing step or using the wrong finish,” warns Top Home Renovation. “Mineral oil is great for ongoing care, but polyurethane offers added durability and color depth. Just be sure to choose based on how often your countertop will be exposed to water or heavy use.”

11. Use the right finish for your lifestyle

“For lasting moisture protection, we recommend Rubio Monocoat or a durable spray lacquer,” notes Wood Slabs. “Epoxy is the only truly waterproof finish, but most others are water-resistant and require prompt cleanup. Avoid harsh chemicals like Windex—they can damage the finish and dry out the wood. And always choose a dense hardwood like walnut or oak to minimize wear.”

12. Let the wood breathe with the right finish

“Over-sealing wood is just as risky as under-sealing,” says Austin Custom CNC. “We recommend breathable, food-safe oils like tung or mineral oil that let the wood flex with humidity. For added functionality, we’ve even designed CNC-cut features like drying grooves that turn a countertop into a practical showpiece.”

How to install wood kitchen countertops

After sealing, it’s time to think about installation—how the countertop is constructed and mounted makes a big difference in its longevity.

13. Choose the right grain orientation for durability

“Grain direction matters more than most people realize,” notes Minimaal en Mooi. “Face grain is great for budget-friendly looks, edge grain adds strength, and end grain is best for high-use areas like butcher blocks. The construction style can make even softer woods more resilient.”

14. Design for movement and easy installation

“Wood moves with the seasons, so don’t glue or screw it down too tightly,” explains Brooklyn Butcher Blocks. “Oversized screw holes and simple brackets are usually enough to keep it secure without limiting flexibility. And if you’re unsure about sealing versus oiling, know that food-safe oils need regular reapplication but can handle knife use, while most sealants are longer lasting but not food-safe.”

15. Use caulking to protect countertop edges

“Keeping wooden countertops dry is key, especially around the edges,” says Cutr. “Water-resistant caulking helps seal vulnerable spots and prevents long-term damage. And with the right hardwood—like oak or cherry—you’ll get both durability and a timeless look.”

Cleaning and maintaining your wood kitchen countertops

Even the best wood countertops need regular care. Here’s how to keep yours looking great for years.

16. Seal and maintain consistently to avoid damage

“Homeowners often forget that wood needs consistent care,” says Lake Erie Woodworks. “Without sealing every few months, moisture can seep in and cause warping or stains—especially near sinks. Hardwoods like walnut or maple work well in kitchens, while teak is better for bathrooms thanks to its natural moisture resistance.”

17. Remove scratches with simple refinishing

“If durability is a concern, wood might surprise you,” says August Pine Workshop. “Dings and scratches aren’t permanent—you can sand them out and refinish the surface with polyurethane or oil. It’s a forgiving material if you’re willing to maintain it.”

18. Repair scratches instead of replacing

“One of the biggest perks of wood is that you don’t need to replace it when it starts looking worn,” says Words with Boards. “With a little sanding and refinishing, you can bring it back to its original look. That makes it perfect for homeowners who want something long-lasting and low-waste.”

19. Keep wood away from high-moisture zones

“Wood is easy to sand and repair, but that doesn’t mean it belongs near water,” warns Grand Door Company, Inc.. “Use it in drier areas of the kitchen to avoid cracking or swelling. When properly maintained with oiling and sealing, wood offers unmatched warmth and charm.”