Live edge countertops can give any kitchen a rustic look that’s both warm and sophisticated. Unlike a standard countertop, these wood slabs are one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase the unique shapes, knots, and grain patterns of each tree they came from.

They’re also environmentally friendly. In fact, most of the wood used for a live edge counter comes from reclaimed material. Instead of being sent to a landfill when someone decides to remodel their kitchen, the piece is reused or if not, it’s processed for other purposes such as compost for soil enhancement, sawdust for animal bedding, mulch for weed control, fuel pellets for wood stoves, or even trail stabilization and landscaping.

The type of wood that’s used for live edge countertops can also vary depending on the style of furniture being crafted from it. Oak is a popular choice because of its durability, while maple and walnut have lighter color tones with more subtle wood grain patterns. But, for those looking to make a statement with their living edge counter, pine and sycamore are also available with their eye-catching color variations and striking natural curves.

Adding a custom finish to a live edge countertop can add a layer of protection and enhance its beauty, too. For example, a resin can be poured over the surface to highlight and protect the natural holes, knots, and color variation that may already be present in a piece of wood. Other types of finishes include mineral oil, tung oils, and beeswax.

Although it’s true that live edge countertops are not as durable as a solid surface, they can be just as long-lasting with proper care and maintenance. To help extend the life of your countertops, make sure that spills are wiped up immediately and hot pans are never placed directly on the wood. Using cutting boards is also a must to prevent scorch marks and bacteria from nesting in the cracks of your wood counter.

While a live edge countertop is an eco-friendly and functional option for your kitchen, it’s important to keep in mind that it requires more frequent maintenance than other solid surface materials like granite or quartz. Because of their moisture sensitivity, live edge wood countertops need to be regularly reapplied with protective oils, such as mineral or tung oil. Typically, this will need to be done every two to three months. To avoid excessive water absorption, it’s recommended that a reputable sawmill mill any wood used for a live edge countertop to a thickness of at least three inches. This will ensure that the wood can expand and contract in response to humidity changes. This will help keep the wood from becoming twisted or warped over time. It’s also a good idea to choose wood with the FSC label, which certifies that it was harvested in compliance with local laws and forest management guidelines that are designed to protect the environment and wildlife. With the right care, your living edge wood counter will last a lifetime and develop an even more stunning patina over the years.