Wood countertops have a number of advantages over laminate or ceramic counters. This article discusses why homeowners who are on a tight budget should consider using a wood countertop, how to waterproof it, and what type of stains will help the finish last longer.
Of course, just because it is on a budget does not mean that homeowners have to sacrifice quality for cost. There are many great materials out there for homeowners to choose from when choosing how to waterproof a countertop.
Tile is another choice, and while this material is a popular choice it can be quite costly. In most cases, the tile can be cut to size and used in a professional bathroom, but it is not recommended for use in kitchens, where a slip hazard may be a concern.
While tiles offer a variety of styles and colors, they are more expensive than a wood countertop. Additionally, tiles are typically comprised of two types of plastic material: porcelain and epoxy. While both materials can be durable, porcelain is more durable than epoxy.
If you want to protect your countertop from moisture, you should consider using a wood countertop. Wood is more affordable than tiles, but it has some significant advantages when it comes to how to waterproof a countertop.
Wood is naturally moisture resistant. This is especially important if you live in an area that gets high humidity. Wood provides excellent protection from moisture, and the grain of the wood will help keep water away from the surface.
Wood is also a bit more resilient than most surfaces, making it less likely to get warped or splintering. Unfortunately, not all woods are created equal. Wood that is properly sealed will give the appearance of being new.
Wood is also easy to maintain. You simply wipe it down with a slightly damp cloth once a week, and you should never need to sand the surface to smooth it out. This type of finish will resist staining or discoloration, and even offers an additional benefit, as wood will last longer and will add value to your home.
Wood also offers a number of unique properties. Because wood is somewhat porous, it will allow moisture to penetrate the surface, and if you choose a wood countertop that is not sealed properly, you will want to protect the material from staining. To do this, a stain should be applied to the surface of the countertop, and after it dries, you can apply a sealant to make the wood more durable.
Wood, as with any other material, will have a degree of “smell” or flavor, which may be undesirable in some situations. If you choose a wood countertop for your kitchen, however, this factor may be less of a problem. Wood countertops are typically sealed, and this means that they will block out some of the odors associated with food preparation, which may be desirable in a kitchen.
The finish on wood counters is highly durable, and even with spills, you will not have to replace the countertop. Because it is sealed, it can withstand even the heaviest spills without letting in any liquid.
Wood countertops are a great choice for homeowners on a budget. However, when it comes to how to waterproof a countertop, they do require special attention, and the price of wood countertops may make it unaffordable for some people.