Sanitary?
Fear of salmonella has been consistently been the first concern my clients have. But is this fear warranted? For years we have been told that plastic is less absorbent and thus safer for cutting meats, especially poultry. In my research I found just the opposite, and the study goes back to 1993! The University of Wisconsin first began with the intentions of finding a convenient way to sanitize wood cutting boards and tops in order to “make them as safe as plastic”. Their findings took a much different direction as their studies revealed that wooden cutting boards kill bacteria that survive well on plastic. In fact, when left at room temperatures, the bacteria on the plastic actually grow substantially. The fact is, any top not cleaned or disinfected after use will attract bacterial growth. So where did the idea of plastic being safer come from? That is the million dollar question! So I encourage you to do research of your own, and give consideration to the beauty of wood.
Design & Species
Wood counter tops have such an incredible presence in a room, quite simply because they give a genuine sense of balance to nearly any space. Wood is warm and relaxing, it tempers the starkness of white palettes and offers a universal appeal to any décor. The most popular of species used today are walnut, maple and cherry; but exotics such as Zebrawood, Tigerwood, African Iroko and African Mahogany are just a few other favorites. Careful consideration should be given to not only the style/décor of the space, but also how they plan to use the surface. The construction method, finish and thickness all define the style further, in addition offer different degrees of durability.
· Waterlox®, a water tight finish that is typically specified for decorative counter tops that are not used for prepping or chopping. If it is used near a water source, refinishing may be required over time. · Mineral oil is the most common finish specified, allowing the consumer to use the surface for prepping food and ability to maintain the finish without hiring a professional. · Many distressing techniques are available including divots, nicks & scratches, knife marks, and rounded corners – all of which can easily be achieved after a few years of use! · Construction methods (how the top is milled together), top thickness and edge profiles include: (consider using photos attached to email??) o Face Grain – planks are fitted together horizontally, allowing the grain of the wood to display. This is the best method for decorative tops o Edge Grain, or butcher block style, allows board lay-up to be thicker – up to 5″. This is the most stable method because the planks are narrow, averaging 1-1/4″ in width. o End Grain, or checker board style, are made using planks of wood in a vertical position. This method provides the most durable heavy duty application, best for cutting and chopping work. o Edge profiles include ogee, beveled and bullnose – selection is often dependent on the thickness desired. Thickness can range from 1¼ ” all the way up to 15″. The most common thickness used today is 2-4″.
Personal testimony & Use and Care:
I am a very proud owner of a wood counter top for the last 5 years, I can testify to nearly every debate there is. Owning a wood is a luxury to in my opinion. It is practical – no need to pull out cutting boards from a cabinet, it is timeless yet unique, and is very easy to care for. I cut anything and everything – because the fact is, if cared properly, it can be stain resistant, heat resistant, and sanitary! Daily cleaning consists of a warm wash cloth with mild dish soap. If I am cutting meats, I will also use 1 part bleach to 10 parts water for additional sanitization.
The general rule for keeping a natural wood counter properly sealed is to (initially) oil it once a day for a week, once a week for a month and once a month forever. And while this may sound tedious, it is as simple as purchasing a bottle of mineral oil from the pharmacy, and applying it in a thick yet even coat over the entire surface. Within 24 hours the oil will absorb into the wood grain offering a superior repellant to stains and germs . Do not be fooled that you need to pay 3x the price by buying “Wood Counter Top Oil” – compare the ingredients and you will clearly see you are paying for the label.