Kitchen Island Countertops

Wood
Wood adds warmth to the kitchen, and is the most sanitary of all the countertop properties; its natural properties protect from bacteria build-up. To maintain the quality appearance, wood island countertops should be routinely treated with mineral oil. A cutting board should be used to avoid damage from knives, and hot pads/trivets eliminate damage from hot cookware.

Butcher Block Butcher-block countertops are attractive and functional. Variations in color and grain patterns make each classic rock-hard maple surface resistant to nicks and gouges and conducive to all types of food preparation. This is a thick, rugged counter surface that retains its quality appearance for countless years and complements any decor. Butcher-block tops can also be found in black walnut, American cherry, and lyptus woods. Stainless Steel A stainless steel island countertop is chic, contemporary, and durable, and it is the only countertop surface that can safely be bleached and rinsed clean. Knives will scratch stainless steel, but these countertops can be re-polished using a 180-grit pad and strokes in the direction of the existing grain to camouflage surface scratches.

Cleanup is simple with warm soapy water or ammonia. Avoid use of abrasive cleaners/pads for general cleaning. Extended contact with foods with a high-acid content causes stains. Stainless steel is competitively priced with wood and less expensive than marble and granite.

Granite and Marble
Granite is unique to its geological region, known for its inconsistent patterns, and is graded for density, strength, acid resistance, and water absorption. Granite countertops are sealed to resist damage; care needs to be taken when using knives, but granite resists heat damage. Cleanup is best done with a sponge dipped in a warm solution of water and anti-bacterial soap, rinsed and dried.

Marble is luxurious and provides a durable countertop surface when sealed, but is more porous and less stain-resistant than granite tops - acidic foods may cause stains. Marble is resistant to moderate heat and, if abused, will scratch.