How to Build Wood Countertops

Wood countertops give kitchens a solid, beautiful look that lasts for generations. Building your own wood countertops can be a unique project that requires you to carefully cut your wood to precisely fit the area in which you're installing it. You can choose a variety of wood types, depending on your particular likes and the style of your kitchen. It's best, however, to choose a hardwood such as oak, cherry, maple, walnut, teak, red beech or mahogany.

Instructions

1

Measure the counter space in your kitchen. This is important to know when you are choosing a design and also shopping for wood. Measure your current counters several times in order to be absolutely positive you are planning well. Careful planning, a seasoned woodworker will tell you, is the key to successful building.

2

Choose a wood that will stand up to the abuse and use that a kitchen counter is apt to see. Avoid soft woods such as pine which will leave dings and marks when anything dropped or hit against the surface. A hard surface like oak or maple will not give in to your daily abuse and will maintain its integrity for years.

3

Cut your wood based on the plans. Measure your wood cuts several times before making your incisions. Most likely, you have invested a great deal of money in your supplies and do not want to waste any to carelessness.

4

Remove all of your old counter surface. Clean the area. You rarely get to look at this area and take care of it. If you see dust or debris remove the bottom area of your countertop.

5

Set the new countertop on the countertop area. Adjust it so it sits straight and how you want it.

6

Attach the new wood by using either epoxy or nails, depending on what your plans call for. It is important to have your wood securely fastened to the top to avoid costly repairs in the future.

7

Apply a waterproof finish for your countertop. This will prevent the wood from warping and suffering damage while preparing meals.