Do Wood Countertops Crack?

Because the wood is considered as the healthiest and one of the most durable building materials in the world, it is a great choice of material for kitchen countertops. Wood countertops demonstrate reliable and sturdy properties even without extreme protection. However, because wood is a natural material, it reacts to different environmental changes and processes in different ways. Wooden countertops are still prone to damages like cracking.

Why wood countertops generally do not crack

1. Wood countertops, along with butcher blocks, are generally hygienic. In a study conducted in New York, it was found out that the cellular structure of most woods used for kitchen countertops, especially maple, is bacteriostatic or has the ability to kills germs. This means that bacteria and other harmful microorganisms do not have the power to cause wooden countertops to disintegrate and cause cracks or any other damage.

2. The structure of wood countertops is made up of the hardest and most durable part of premium wood. Also, the woods that are used in wood countertops are dried to 6% humidity to better resist moisture and mildews.

3. The gluing system in wood countertops is usually stronger than the ones used in other kitchen countertops. The inside and outside corners of wood countertops are mitered and given bolted reinforcement for strength and resistance to cracks.

4. The cuts, dings, or cracks on the surface of wooden countertops can easily be fixed using a soft rag and a little oil. Major damages, on the other hand, can be repaired by sanding and recoating.

Major causes of cracking in wood countertops

1. Wood countertops naturally crack. Wood naturally expands and contracts depending on the temperature of the environment, and wood countertops are subjected to such conditions especially after they have been used for some time and if they are used under alternating extreme weather conditions. The expansion and contraction of wood can lead to serious cracking of the countertops. It is because of this occurrence that kitchen designers advise homeowners that wood countertops are not be for permanent use.

2. Another cause of cracking in wood countertops is their exposure to strong chemicals such as vinegar, corrosive substances, and harsh detergents. Keep these substances away from your wooden countertop especially if the surface has a mineral oil finishing,

3. Extreme temperature, such as excessive heat or freezing coldness, can also crack your wood countertops if they are exposed to it without protection. This is again due to the tendency of wood to expand and contract under certain temperature conditions. It is very important to take the environmental conditions in your area into consideration before purchasing a wood countertop.

4. Unavoidable natural calamities such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions can not only cause cracking of your wood countertop, but its destruction as well.