wood worktops + undermount sinks.

[Davi]

anyone here got wooden worktops with undermount sinks, and if you have how did you seal the end-grain around the cutout? can't fathom it myself - I've got loads of brochures here with wooden worktops and they all have undermounted sinks, but in my mind exposing end grain to constant soaking - even well oiled - is madness and asking for disaster.

Unless I'm missing something.

[Red Firecracker]

Davi said:

anyone here got wooden worktops with undermount sinks, and if you have how did you seal the end-grain around the cutout? can't fathom it myself - I've got loads of brochures here with wooden worktops and they all have undermounted sinks, but in my mind exposing end grain to constant soaking - even well oiled - is madness and asking for disaster.

Unless I'm missing something.

Had no problems myself.

Beech worktops and undermount butler sink. Oiled as per suppliers instructions and good as the day I applied it. In actual fact, I do need to give it its yearly treatment soon, but it doesn't look distressed in any way.

[Davi]

so no swelling at all of the worktop around the sink cutout?! I'm rather surprised, seeing as the resin coated wood I've used elsewhere in a less wet exposure has swollen!

[Red Firecracker]

Davi said:

so no swelling at all of the worktop around the sink cutout?! I'm rather surprised, seeing as the resin coated wood I've used elsewhere in a less wet exposure has swollen!

Nope, good as they day I put it in 3 years ago.

[Dr_Rick]

Had an oak butchers block worktop put in about 1yr ago with a cut-out for a butlers sink.

We actually had the worktop treated with some sort of clear protective sealant that goes over all the visible surfaces.

Gives it reasonable protection from scratches, and heat (not a hot pan we've been told), and is water resistant. Shouldn't need re-treating for at least 5-years.

Only downside is that the kitchen people who did the job don't exist any more so getting it re-treated could be fun.

Dr Rick

[Nuisance_Value]

I had an iroko surround to a Belfast sink. I used Liberon finishing oil, 3 coats and never had a problem. Make sure you oil the underside before fitting and follow the instructions. The surplus oil must be wiped off before it sets to a 'skin' (the first coat usually soaks right in) It will probably require re-oiling once a year or so.

Do NOT use a varnish or 'sealer' this doesn't allow the wood to breathe and traps moisture.

Liberon is excellent stuff, it is completely safe (can be used on wooden toys that kids might chew) and highly water, heat, alcohol and food acid resistant.

I wouldn't use anything else.

[SJobson]

Ours was painted with 2 coats of something the carpenter called polyvine - still looks perfect three years on.