What timber to use for kitchen benchtop?

[DIYneedhelp]

Hi! 

I am doing a kitchen renovation and am wanting to do a timber bench top. 
I am just a bit confused as to what bench top I should use. I am wanting to put varnish over it. Maybe the Cabot’s bench top varnish? I’m just not sure what bench top would be best to use in the kitchen. The Rubberwood? Acacia or Beech? Thanks! 

[EricL]

Hello @DIYneedhelp 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's fabulous to have you join us, and thank you for sharing your question about your kitchen benchtop.

There are several choices available to you, there is the Kaboodle timber benchtops, Think benchtops and the Standard timber panels that can be used for benchtops as well. The first two can be ordered to custom size with the corner joins cut into them, you'll need to speak to the in-store kitchen specialist in order to process those kinds of benchtop.

The standard timber panels however are pre-cut panels that have no corner joins on them and will need to be cut to size on site. They are also not as thick as standard benchtops which are around 38mm.

Choosing a timber benchtop is a personal choice, some are dark, others are light in colour. But the good news is that it is safe to use the Cabot's 1L Satin Clear Benchtop Timber Finish on any of these timber benchtops. 

I suggest measuring your current benchtop size as accurately as you can and speaking to the in-store kitchen specialist in order to get a quote for your preferred timber benchtop. I also recommend visiting the kitchen display area and having a look at the timber benchtop finishes and seeing which one is to your liking.

Here is a handy step -by-step guide: How to restore wooden furniture (the techniques used are applicable to your timber benchtop)

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[DIYneedhelp]

Hi @EricL 

Thanks for your reply! 
we are wanting to use the pre cut ones and join them ourselves. Out of the Rubberwood, Beech and Acacia which would you recommend to be the most durable? 

[EricL]

Hi @DIYneedhelp 

All three types of wood are actually applicable to benchtop and furniture assembly as they are all hardwood. However, among the three of them only Acacia has warmth and authenticity of dark shaded timber. When compared to the beach and rubberwood finish that have a strong artificial finish to it.

Keep in mind that the finish of the benchtop is crucial and must blend in with the kitchen and its surroundings.

Please make sure to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a dust mask when working on your benchtops.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric