Kitchen worktops

jennifernil

JIL said:

Thanks again. 
The kitchen fitter had suggested that we oil them before he fits them and he can give his advice.  I'm actually feeling relieved at settling on a worktop.

Yes, that is essential, they MUST be treated as much underneath and on all edges as on top, before fitting, and treating the hob and sink cut outs is 100% essential.  We use Rustins Danish Oil.  Apply with a lint free cotton rag, remove any surplus and allow to dry completely before the next coat. 

My husband fitted all ours, and has recently fitted Iroko for our daughter, which looks lovely.   I did most of the oIling once he had made sure it fitted snugly.   First make sure the top is smooth.........start oiling on the top then when dry  turn and do the underside........turn right side up and sand it to remove any raised grain....repeat twice more, sanding if necessary.  Depending on the temperature, it may take up to 24 hours to do a top and a bottom, so it is not quick.  Do not rush it.

We did not do the sink cut out until the main oiling was done as the top may be weakened due to the large hole in it and turning it then is not really advisable.  

After doing the cut outs, oil the exposed wood  well, then do one final coat on the top side, before fitting sink and hob.