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Before you start any work on your new solid wood worktop, please ensure you are completely satisfied with the product by checking for damage or defects and read this care guide in full. For returns conditions please see the end of this document.

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Our panels and worktops are manufactured from European & African hardwoods that have been bonded using moisture resistant B3 glue, sanded to 120 grit and delivered raw, square-edged and ready for finishing, unless you have ordered it pre-oiled.  Each panel/worktop is individually shrink-wrapped for protection. Timber worktops are dried to 8-10% moisture content. Because wood is a living material it can expand and contract according to the surrounding humidity levels. If the worktop is exposed to different moisture levels on the surface and underside, it will start bowing. By turning the worktop over and allowing it to rest, it will become level again. When the wood is dried, small air pockets can occur, appearing as small cracks on the surface. This is a natural occurrence and can also happen as a result of changes in temperature or humidity.

 

Small cracks can be repaired with wood filler. Small cracks are a natural part of solid wood and do not constitute grounds for complaint.

 

Storage

The worktops leave our warehouse acclimatised and level. As with all solid timber products, the worktops should be stored in a dry place, away from all sources of heat and moisture prior to installation. When storing the worktops they should remain in their original packaging and should be

stacked level and flat on bearers, so that air can circulate between the worktops. Never prop up a worktop vertically against a wall.

 

Do not expose the worktops to major changes in temperature/humidity and be aware of the surrounding environment during building work/installation.

Maintenance

Before installing, the worktop must be treated on both surfaces. Particular attention must be paid to end grain edges, cut-outs for sinks and all surfaces which are hidden after installation. If this is not done, the worktops may bow and split as a result. Use  the recommended oil or similar.

 

Oiling should be done at least three times, allowing the oil to dry and giving the worktop a light sanding in between coats, following closely the instructions from the oil manufacturer. After installation the worktop must be oiled thoroughly. Always work the oil into the worktop in the direction of the wood grain for best results.

 

Cut-outs

Any cut-outs for sinks, hobs etc. must be at least 5mm larger than the units themselves, thus allowing the wood to move. Where pipes are to be brought up through the worktop, a 2-3mm allowance for expansion/contraction should be maintained around the pipe. The hole for taps must be at least 3mm larger in diameter than the water pipe. When using a jigsaw, always cut from the underside of the worktop. Important: All cut-outs must be thoroughly sealed with oil to prevent moisture damage to the worktop. Belfast sinks must have at least 10mm overhang and the edges must be treated extremely regularly to prevent the worktop splitting. Make sure that a gap of at least 250mm from appliance cut-out to the end of the worktop, or between cut-outs remains. If a waste disposal unit is fitted to an undermounted sink after installation, additional support will be required; otherwise your warranty may be invalidated.

Thermal Expansion

Wood worksurface products should ideally be kept at room temperature. In kitchens where temperatures can be either very cold (unoccupied site) or very humid, then the level of maintenance required is greater, especially in the immediate weeks after installation. In these cases extra coats of worksurface sealant will be necessary to prevent drying out and warping. If a built-under oven, dishwasher, washing machine or tumble dryer is to be installed under the worksurface, care should be taken to ensure that the protective deflector provided by the appliance manufacturer is fitted correctly to the underside of the worktop to protect it from any intense heat or moisture. Allow a 3-4mm gap between the back edge of the worktop and

the wall to allow expansion and contraction.

Installation

Plaster should be dry and all the wet trades finished in the rooms to which worktops are to be fitted. The worktop should be adequately supported during all cutting, drilling or sawing operations. To allow the worktop to move it is very important there is a gap between the worktop and the

wall, especially when installing U shaped or angled worktops. For the worktops to function perfectly it is essential that all kitchen units have been installed correctly with a spirit level so the upper surfaces are completely level. The worktops should be installed with a row of 3 screws each 300-500mm apart using supporting brackets in between where cabinets do not have a full top. Drill 10mm holes in the top of the cabinets, and use screws with washers to allow the worktop to move. Do not fasten the worktops too tight to the cabinets, as the worktops must be able to move.

When installing on a cabinet with a full top, place 4-6mm thick battens on top of the cabinets. Drill 2-3 holes in the top rear of the cabinets allowing the air to circulate. You can decide yourself which way the worktop will move by selecting either the front or the rear edge to fix your worktop into position.

Joints

Wooden kitchen worktop corner joints must be butted or made with full equal mitres in order to accommodate cross-grain movement of the timber. Each joint should be held and aligned ith at least 3 worktops toggle bolts and 4, size 20 biscuits (not dowels). Wooden kitchen worktop mitre joints

Make mitre joints in wooden kitchen worktops with an equal angle. Reinforce the underside  of the joint with a plywood or metal plate. Screw fix the plate through slots (aligned across the wood grain) at 12mm holes with penny-washers - to accommodate cross grain movement of the worktops timber. Note: The end grain on wooden kitchen worktops joints and the holes for the bolts must all be edge-sealed before assembly and silicone sealed during assembly.

Tap plinths

Joints between tap plinths and adjacent tops must be made with worktop bolts. Seal the end grain at both sides of the joint with end grain sealer. Seal the joint with low modulus silicone sealer when the joints are finally to be tightened up.

End caps

Cut and fit end caps on wooden kitchen worktops next to Range Cookers, Agas, boilers and other hot appliances that run continuously or for long periods of time. They are also necessary on tops adjacent to dropped hobs. The caps reduce drying of the main timber part. Attach securely with biscuits and loose tongues and waterproof wood glue. Remember to always carry out a final tightening and adjustment of the joints to complete the

installation.

Free standing worktops/overhangs

Free standing worktops or overhangs over 250mm, must be supported by a frame or the insertion of T-bars to avoid bowing.

Upstands

It is important that upstands are fixed to the wall and not to the worktop. There should be a 3mm gap between the worktop and upstand, the only connection between upstand and worktop should be silicone sealant, allowing natural movement of your worktop.

Aftercare

Ongoing care and oiling of the timber brings out and enhances its appearance as well as protecting the wood surfaces from wear and tear. New worktops should be treated with oil every week for the first six weeks, and at least once every three months thereafter. If you think your worktop needs oiling more regularly then feel free to apply as often as you like - you cannot overdo it. This simple procedure will maintain the colour and lustre of your hardwood worktop and keep it looking as good as new. Just remember to always apply thin layers using a lint-free cloth and remove any excess oil

after 10-15mins.

Wooden worktop products may be more prone to scratching than some other surfaces. The use of chopping boards and/or pastry mates is recommended in order to protect the surface finish.

Household appliances which give off heat (coffee makers, toasters, cookers etc.) should never be placed directly onto the worktop surface as the wood may dry out and cracks may appear.

Hot pans, rough-bottomed objects and wet items should not be placed directly onto a wooden work surface - always use granite inserts, hot-rods, trivets, pan stands or heat-resistant mats to protect the worktop from scorch marks. Direct contact from iron, steel or copper vessels can also stain the timber surfaces and should therefore be avoided. For daily cleaning, use a mild soap and warm (not hot) water on a moistened cloth (do not

use concentrated soap/washing up liquid) Never use products, which contain ammonia, abrasives, or scouring powder. Never let water or cleaning agents puddle for any period of time on the worktop. Small cracks might occur but they are not damaging to the worktop simply treat with extra

oil. Hardwood has many unique qualities and with a little care and attention the passage of time can enhance its beauty. In the unfortunate event of sustaining damage, a wooden worktop maybe rubbed down and refinished, leaving it as good as new.

Points to note

Any complaints about worktops must be made to Showcase Kitchens Ltd within 7 days of the receipt of the goods. Installed worktops will be considered as having been accepted. In the unlikely event that visible product defects become evident, no liability for the removal of the worktop

or the installation of a replacement will be accepted. The guarantee is valid for 6 months from the delivery date and covers all defects related to

the production of the board. It does not cover poor treatment/maintenance or incorrect storage/installation of the worktops. Worktops can only be returned by special agreement with Showcase Kitchens Ltd. If they are to be returned, they must be correctly packaged to prevent

any damage in transit.  Any images and samples should be treated as approximations only. Colour accuracy of the products viewed on our website and leaflet cannot be guaranteed due to variances in the image reproduction process. Wood is a natural product and has all manner of colour

variations, and we cannot guarantee any replication of colour from piece to piece. Types of construction, stave widths, lengths and thickness may vary from the sample or from piece to piece. There may be occasions where the worktops are heavily sanded  in order to present the best aspect of the timber.

Caution! Heavy Goods. Please use the appropriate safety clothing and lifting equipment.

This Installation and  Maintenance guide is for guidance only.

Showcase Kitchens Ltd cannot accept responsibility for final fitting of your worktop.

 

Installation and care of wooden worktops. A copy of these instructions is included with your worktop.

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