Iroko Worktops
Iroko worktops are a stylish and hard-waring choice for homeowners in the UK looking to upgrade or replace their kitchen. This is due to the durability, versatility, and attractive appearance of iroko. If you're considering buying wood worktops online for your kitchen, it is important to know what to look for to ensure you get the best value for your money.
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Buy Iroko Worktops
Why buy iroko worktops? Iroko wood, often referred to as the 'African Teak,' is renowned for its exceptional durability and distinct aesthetic appeal, making it an attractive choice for kitchen worktops. Originating from tropical Africa, this exotic hardwood boasts a beautiful blend of yellow to light brown colors that mature into a rich, dark hue with time, giving your kitchen a warm and inviting aura.
One of the main advantages of iroko worktops is that they are relatively affordable compared to other hardwood options like oak or walnut. This makes them an excellent choice for homeowners who want the beauty and durability of hardwood without spending more than necessary.
The true charm of an iroko worktop lies in its beautiful appearance, combined with its remarkable durability and longevity when correctly maintained. Iroko is a dense, heavy hardwood, which offers excellent resistance to decay, rot, and insect attacks. This is comparable to teak's resilience. Its natural oils make it resistant to water and heat, protecting your worktop from spills, hot pans, and general kitchen wear and tear.
Iroko Worktop Sizes
When it comes to size, iroko worktops can be found in a variety of common dimensions to fit diverse kitchen configurations. Standard sizes typically range from 2 to 3 meters (2000mm to 3000mm) in length, 600mm to 1200mm in width, and approximately 40mm in thickness is usual. There are also worktops that are approximately 27mm in thickness, which give a lower profile edge. However, custom sizes can often be created to cater to unique kitchen designs.
Iroko worktops are generally available in two stave width options: 40mm and 90mm. The term 'stave' refers to individual strips of wood that are jointed together to form the worktop. The 40mm stave width is a popular choice as it accentuates the wood's varied grain patterns and colors, creating a visually appealing mosaic effect. On the other hand, the wider 90mm stave offers a more contemporary, uniform look, well-suited to minimalist kitchen designs.
Appearance, Care and Maintenance of Iroko Worktops
The true charm of an Iroko worktop lies in its remarkable durability. This dense, heavy hardwood offers excellent resistance to decay, rot, and insect attacks, comparable to teak's resilience. Its natural oils make it resistant to water and heat, protecting your worktop from spills, hot pans, and general kitchen wear and tear.
However, the hardness of iroko does not compromise its ability to be shaped and sculptured into the perfect worktop for your kitchen. Despite its density, it can be cut and shaped with ease, making installation relatively straightforward. Moreover, this resistance and toughness mean your iroko worktop will stand the test of time, and with appropriate care, can often be a lifelong investment.
Despite iroko’s robust nature, occasional maintenance is required to preserve its quality and beauty. Here is where the worktop finishing oil plays a vital role. This oil acts as a sealant, enhancing the wood's natural resistance to water and heat, while also preserving its appearance.
Initially, it is advisable to apply the oil immediately after installation and then once every week for the first six weeks. Thereafter, the frequency can be reduced to once every three months. Regular oiling not only maintains the worktop's durability but also enriches its color, accentuating the wood's natural grain and depth, thereby enhancing your kitchen's aesthetics.
Application of the oil is straightforward and can be undertaken by any DIY enthusiast. It merely requires applying the oil in the direction of the grain with a lint-free cloth, allowing it to soak in, and then wiping off the excess.
When considering an iroko worktop, it's crucial to remember that while it offers significant benefits, it does require consistent care. However, this should not dissuade potential users. Instead, it should be seen as a process of preserving an investment. The purchase of an iroko worktop is an investment that delivers beauty, strength, and functionality to your kitchen space.
When shopping for iroko worktops, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs and budget.
In summary, iroko worktops, with their durable construction, stunning aesthetic appeal, and adaptable sizing options, present an enticing choice for kitchen designs. They encapsulate a perfect blend of style and substance, and while they may necessitate regular maintenance, the result is a spectacular and enduring worktop that elevates your kitchen environment. Embrace the richness of iroko, and let the heart of your home radiate with its unparalleled charm.
Thank you for visiting SolidWoodWorktops.com. We hope that you have found some of the information helpful in deciding which type of kitchen worktop you will choose. See our other articles about solid wood worktops, including information about the popular oak and beech worktops.