The right benchtop will become not only a stunning visual feature in the kitchen, but also a functional work space. With the modern kitchen changing, benchtops are now often used for much more than just food preparation. And it's not only the kitchen where benchtops are important. Laundry benchtops are also a critical design decision, with both kitchen and laundry benchtops available in a wide range of timber including Oak, native timber such as Kauri, Jarah and much more.

Whether it's a place to prop a laptop to finish some work, for a child to do their homework, or perhaps it's a space to entertain and gather around, the benchtop is a central fixture in any kitchen.

Wooden Benchtops

Wooden kitchen benchtops offer a soft and warm alternative to some of the more industrial materials on the market. From popular timbers such as solid Oak, Kauri and Jarrah to the increasingly popular bamboo, there are plenty of choices to make – and options to suit a variety of tastes, budgets and styles.

Solid timber vs engineered timber benchtops – which is best?

Solid timber is, as the name would suggest, solid wood, while engineered timber benchtops consist of a thin layer of wood on the surface above a number of layers of timber panels, fused together to create a composite. Although their performance is relatively similar, engineered wood provides greater resistance to warping and cupping than solid timber.

With the look and feel of a hardwood surface easily achieved with engineered timber, it is definitely an option worth exploring for kitchen or laundry benchtops.

What are the benefits of wooden benchtops?

Wood can create a natural, light and welcoming aesthetic in the home – and provide warmth to offset more industrial or modern cabinetry or furniture. With a wide range of colours, tones, textures and finishes to choose from, timber benches can suit any taste or surrounding décor. However, if the home is in a more humid location or exposed to sudden changes in temperature, wood may not be the best choice of material.

What are the pros and cons of timber benchtops?

Timber will often be chosen as a benchtop material based on a preference for the natural look it provides. However, wood offers many other benefits, including durability and its ability to be renewed through sanding and oiling, as well as low maintenance requirements.

The only real down-sides to the material are the chance of nicks, gouges and scratches, and staining – while these can add character, for those seeking a ‘perfect’ and uniform material, wood may not be the top choice. 

Which timbers are used for benchtops?

·        Oak

·        Kauri

·        Pine

·        Bamboo

·        Rimu

·        Australian blackwood

·        Jarrah

How to clean and maintain wooden benchtops

Warm soapy water is the simplest and best option for day-to-day cleaning of wooden benchtops. Wipe up spills immediately to minimise the risk of staining – and give the surface a good wash and buff every evening to keep the shine. Avoid acidic cleaning products or vinegar, as these may break down the glue holding the benchtop together.

To preserve the benchtop in the best possible condition and avoid water seepage, use lemon to remove stains and lightly sand and oil the wood every six to 12 months – using high-quality mineral oil.

View more: Granite benchtops