Wood has a lovely appeal to it and it is also notably warmer than any other type of work surface. However, when you compare wood with natural stone, the price might be an immediate indication that the two are not made equally.
Wood worktops don’t last nearly as long as stone. Whether you choose wood countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, the fact of the matter is that they will come in contact with water. Wood is highly porous and absorbs water like a sponge! Stone can also absorb water but it’s far easier to seal.
Wood will need to be sealed regularly whereas stone only needs to be sealed periodically. In addition, no matter how well you seal your wood worktops, they are bound to show signs of water exposure around the sink. Water splashes around the sink area and this can result in mould and mildew. Once the black mould takes hold, it’s not something you can just get rid of!
Not to mention the fact that wood tends to swell and change shape as it absorbs water. It’s not just direct water exposure but also humidity that affects the integrity of the wood. So, with all of this in mind, it’s easy to understand why wood worktops only last a few years at best. Stone, on the other hand, will hold its shape and beauty for a lifetime! Provided, of course, that it is regularly sealed and the care guidelines are followed.