8
Maintenance
PROTECTING THE SURFACE
Solid Wood Panel - Finishing your countertop with oil or oil-wax
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One of the preferred finish procedures is to use oil or wax oil. Strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions as to the use of any
oil or oil-wax. Once installed, the working surface must be protected with a layer of oil (multiple applications may be needed) that
provides a barrier and prevents the ingress of water and dirt into the wood. Protective coating is sufficient when water remains on
the countertop after a spill, without tendency to spread and penetrate the wood.
Re-oiling
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Oil the countertop every three (3) to six (6) months to restore coating anytime when the surface begins to dull or drops of spilled
water lose their natural shape and penetrate into the wood.
Other Finishing Methods
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Other finishing methods are allowed that provide protection against moisture such as polyurethane. Please see finish
manufacturer’s instructions for finish application.
Care and Cleaning
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Remove any spills from the surface. Do not allow the water to lie on the surface for a long time.
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Always use protective mats or pads under hot dishes, or leave them to cool on the stove.
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Use a soft cloth and warm water when cleaning. Avoid using concentrated cleaning detergents, especially those containing bleach.
FOOD CONTACT CONSIDERATIONS
Requirement
Description
Food Safe for Chopping
(FDA approved material)
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Must be a closed-cell wood like birch, maple, walnut, or beech.
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Food safe finish such as mineral oil with/without beeswax.
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Chopping too heavily can make cuts into the countertop, which will expose unfinished wood, making the
surface more difficult to clean, and potentially lead to permanent damage.
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Sand away any cuts prior to re-oiling, and apply multiple coats to the sanded areas to ensure the
countertop remains safe and in good condition.
Food Safe for Contact Only
(FDA approved material)
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Finishes that harden after application (such as polyurethane) are NOT to be cut on. Cutting could
produce small chips in the finish, and ingesting these fragments can be harmful. These surfaces should
only be used for general food contact and prep work.
Open Grain Woods
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Oak, elm, and ash have more open pores. Using a mineral oil/wax finish is not recommended.
Closed Grain Woods
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Woods like birch, maple, walnut, or beech are acceptable to use with a mineral oil and/or wax finish.