If your wood countertops have started to show signs of wear and tear, you should consider oiling them. There are several steps to taking to keep your wooden countertops looking newer and healthier. You can also repair scratches and cracks with an all-purpose cleaner. Once these steps are completed, you can apply a finish to your wood countertops to protect them and prevent further damage. Here are some quick and easy ways to clean your wood countertops.
Oiling wood countertops
A simple fix for your wood countertops is to apply a thin layer of oil to them. Mineral oil is a good choice for this purpose and is readily available at big box stores and pharmacies. Tung oil is also a good choice, but be sure to purchase pure Tung oil to avoid any reactions. The wood on your wood countertops needs a protective coating to prevent them from splitting and cracking.
The oil that you use for your wood countertops will come from several sources. Linseed oil, for instance, is made from flax seed and is a good choice for wood countertops. Linseed oil is also food-safe, although boiled oil may contain metal. Walnut oil darkens wood slightly and gives it a beautiful patina, but is not recommended for households where someone is allergic to nuts.
Filling cracks on wood countertops
If your wood countertop has visible cracks, you may wish to fill them. Cracked wood can be a visual annoyance. However, it’s important to remember that wood can self-correct itself by bringing the relative humidity back up to 50%. You can also apply a wood putty to the crack. To use a wood putty, you’ll need a nonmetal scraper, a lighter, and a soft cloth. When you’re ready to use the putty, follow the instructions on the packaging.
First, make sure to check the end grain of your tabletop. Usually, end grain wood loses moisture more quickly than the rest of the tabletop. This means that the wood near the edges is more prone to cracking. To prevent this, use a damp towel on the tabletop. You may have to drape it over the table for 24 hours. If the cracks don’t close, use a tarp to cover the tabletop while it dries.
Repairing scratches on wood countertops
Wood countertops are prone to scratches due to physical means. These scratches are caused by the interaction of sharp corners and the surface. Repairing scratches on wood countertops can be simple if you know how to treat them correctly. The easiest way to do so is to use furniture wax. This substance is cheap and will remove the scratches. It can also be used to mimic the finish coat on wood countertops. Using a rag or paper towel to clean off the excess liquid will reduce the chance of further damage.
Professional refinishing is the best option for minor damages. It can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. However, a professional will provide a high-quality finish. Professionals charge anywhere from $200 to $500 for a simple scratch repair. Invisible repairs can also be done by yourself, but this method requires some skill. Moreover, you will not be able to match the finish of a professional if you do it yourself.
Painting old wood or linoleum countertops
To paint a wood or linoleum countertop, you’ll need a high-quality paint. The best choice is a semi-gloss or gloss paint, which will cover the existing stain and add a new finish. For a more permanent change, you can apply a new coat of polyurethane. You can also use a paint roller to apply the new finish to the countertop.
To paint an old wood or linoleum countertop, you need to prepare the surface thoroughly. You can sand the countertops with medium-grit sandpaper to create a good grab point for the primer. A palm sander works well for this job, but you’ll also need a sanding block for corners and backsplash. To ensure that the laminate is not broken, scratch it with a sanding block. After cleaning the surface, you can use mineral spirits to remove any dust.
Refinishing butcher block countertops
If you have a butcher block countertop, refinishing is a great way to restore it. You can use fine-grit sandpaper and an orbital sander to repair the scratched surface. Apply the sandpaper in the direction of the grain, sanding the damaged area first. Next, sand the surrounding area until it is smooth. Wipe off any sanding dust and then use a food-grade mineral oil to finish the surface. After allowing the sanding process to dry, you can apply wax to the surface.
While applying the mineral oil, make sure to apply a coat of it to the top of the block. After 20 minutes, you should have a fresh look. If you’re concerned about the stain, it’s best to apply a coat of mineral oil. A thin layer will go a long way in preventing cracks. If the finish dries out too quickly, you may need to repeat the process.