Sycamore worktops are a very good choice of wood worktop for a variety of kitchens. They offer a range of positives and only a few negative points (which can mostly be negated with a bit of care and effort). Although sycamore is a relatively unusual choice of timber from which to construct a kitchen worktop, it is becoming increasingly popular as people discover it’s significant benefits – both from a functional and aesthetic standpoint.
It is true that sycamore kitchen worktops are not as popular as those made from oak or beech, but this doesn’t mean that they don’t possess properties that make them ideally suited for this role. In fact, butcher’s blocks were often fashioned from sycamore. The high density and toughness of the sycamore timber made it ideal for this task. Let’s look at some of the beneficial attributes of sycamore timber in more detail.
Firstly, as already mentioned, sycamore is a very strong wood. Sycamore trees are relatively slow growing hardwoods (related to London plane trees). As a result, sycamore worktops are tough and possess great strength. The wood is difficult to split, but it is quite easy to machine tool. This allows a sycamore worktop to be fitted easily and for inserts for sinks and hobs to be cut without difficulty.
Secondly, a sycamore worktop possesses a distinctive, but attractive colour. The wood has a naturally creamy hue and is often tinged with pinks and reds. It is quite pale in comparison many other wood worktops, and this means that it can work well in a both contemporary and traditional kitchen designs and styles. Because of its pale tones, it can often be put to good use in a naturally dark kitchen by reflecting the light that does enter the room.
Thirdly, like all wood kitchen worktops, a sycamore countertop will bring a natural feel to the room. It is cheap and easy to fit and install, is hygienic and, provided it is treated with care and attention, it will last a great many years.
There are a few negative points that are worth mentioning. Like all wooden countertops, sycamore ones are vulnerable to the effects of water. If water is allowed to stand on the sycamore work surface it will leave a stain. However, providing spillages are dealt with promptly, this problem can easily be averted. Wooden worktops must be oiled regularly to seal and protect the timber. It really is not worth trying to cut corners with this process. If you don’t treat the wood surface properly, you will find that the wood becomes stained very easily, particularly around sinks and kettles.
Sycamore worktops are a fantastic choice and work brilliantly in a range of different kitchen schemes. Providing they are looked after diligently, I’m sure you will be very happy with this choice of kitchen worktop.