Wood worktops are a timeless feature in kitchens, valued for their warmth, character, and natural beauty. Over time, however, daily use takes its toll. Scratches, stains, water marks, heat damage, and general wear can leave even the highest-quality timber looking tired and neglected. Fortunately, wood worktop restoration offers a cost-effective and sustainable way to revive these surfaces, restoring both appearance and performance without the expense of replacement.
Why wood worktops deteriorate
Wood is a living, natural material that reacts to its environment. Moisture, heat, food spills, and cleaning products all affect its condition. Common causes of damage include:
Water exposure, leading to swelling, staining, or black marks
Heat damage from hot pans or appliances
Knife marks and scratches from food preparation
Grease and food stains that penetrate the surface
Without proper care, these issues accumulate, making restoration not just cosmetic but essential to prolong the worktop’s lifespan.
Wood worktop restoration:bringing natural back to life.
1. Assessment and preparation
The process begins with assessing the condition of the worktop. Most surface damage can be addressed through sanding and refinishing. The area is cleared, and appliances or sinks may be masked to protect them during the process.
2. Deep cleaning
Before sanding, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned to remove grease, dirt, and residues. This ensures that contaminants are not driven deeper into the wood during sanding and that the final finish adheres properly.
3. Sanding
Sanding is the core of the restoration process. Starting with a coarser grit and gradually moving to finer grades, sanding removes scratches, stains, and old finishes. This step reveals fresh wood beneath and creates a smooth, even surface. Edges and corners are carefully blended to maintain a uniform look.
We use a power sander connected to a vacuum cleaner so there is hardly any dust generated.
4. Finishing
After sanding, the worktop is treated with a protective finish— we apply 2 coats of Fiddes hard wax oil in clear statin,this finish is good for 7 years and does not need applying every year.