Teak Island countertops can provide a beautiful and durable option for kitchen and bathroom remodels. This luxurious material was recently used in the This Old House (TOH) Arlington Italianate project home, located just outside of Boston, Massachusetts. Installing these richly-grained countertops offered both aesthetic appeal and functionality for the historic 1920s home.
An Introduction to Teak Island Countertops
Teak Island is a brand of teak countertops that are sourced from sustainable plantations in Indonesia. Teak is a tropical hardwood that is highly desired for its natural beauty, water-resistance, and durability. When used for countertops, the wood is planed and fitted to create smooth surfaces that display the handsome blonde and brown grains.
Teak counters are typically attached to a substrate like plywood for stability. This combination creates a sturdy surface that can withstand years of regular use. The rich oil content of teak wood enables it to stand up well against water, heat, and staining. With proper care, Teak Island counters can last for decades without losing their luster.
Unlike manmade materials like quartz or solid surface, teak offers a natural look that brings warmth and texture to any space. The distinctive grains and color variations make each counter one-of-a-kind. As a bonus, teak contains natural oils that are resistant to bacteria growth. This makes it a smart choice for kitchens and baths.
Benefits of Using Teak Countertops
There are many benefits that make Teak Island counters a worthwhile investment:
Natural beauty – The flowing grains and honey-brown hues add organic beauty to any space. Every piece has a unique pattern that adds interest.
Durability – Teak has a Janka hardness rating of 1,070. This means it can stand up to everyday wear and tear, hot pots and pans, and more. Proper sealing helps increase its longevity.
Water-resistance – The high oil content makes teak naturally resistant to liquids. Spills can be easily wiped away without worry of damage.
Stain-resistance – Due to its tight grains and oil content, teak strongly resists stains from food prep and toiletries.
Low maintenance – With an occasional reapplication of sealant, teak counters simply need to be cleaned with mild soap and water.
Sustainably-sourced – Teak Island uses plantation-grown teak that is harvested responsibly in Indonesia. This is an eco-friendly material choice.
Antibacterial properties – Teak contains natural oils that reduce bacteria growth. This creates a sanitary surface for food prep areas.
With this excellent mix of beauty, durability, and practicality, it’s easy to see why the TOH team selected Teak Island counters for their Italianate house project. The rich finish adds a classic elegance that suits the vintage home.
Teak Island Countertops at the TOH Arlington Italianate House
The TOH project house in Arlington, Massachusetts was built in the 1920s in the grand Italianate style. TOH designers sought to renovate the home to honor its historic beginnings, while also equipping it for comfortable modern living. The kitchen and master bathroom both received beautiful teak counters from Teak Island.
Selection Process
The TOH team carefully evaluated different countertop materials to find the best fit for the Arlington house. They wanted a product that would complement the home’s period design, while still performing well as major elements in the new kitchen and bath areas.
Beautifully-grained teak ultimately won out for its natural, timeless beauty and proven durability. TOH designer Jenn Nawada was impressed by teak’s ability to withstand decades of use while still looking fantastic. Teak Island’s precise custom cutting and installation gave them confidence in the quality they would receive.
Kitchen Installation
To match the mostly white kitchen, the TOH team chose Teak Island counters with a very light finish. This maintains the wood’s natural blonde tones to pair well with the array of white cabinetry. The neutral teak finish also keeps the focus on the dramatic black and brass hood above the range.
The counters were expertly cut to provide one long run of teak on the right side. This creates a consistent appearance despite the countertop turning the corner in an L-shape. The left side features a thick teak butcher block island that provides extra prep space and casual seating.
Teak’s legendary durability makes it an ideal choice for the hard-working kitchen space. The counters can withstand hot items from the oven or stove without issue. Chops, spills, and baking messes are also no match for teak. Keeping the counters properly sealed will maintain their beauty for years of gourmet cooking adventures.
Master Bathroom Installation
The luxurious master bath was also an ideal spot for installing Teak Island counters. Double vanities received custom teak tops with an elegant rectangular sink basin dropped in. The rich wood tones complement the room’s calming blue accents.
For the bathroom, the TOH team opted for teak counters with a slightly darker finish. This creates a striking contrast against the white marble subway tiles that cover the walls. The end result is a spa-like atmosphere that still honors the home’s traditional roots.
Just like in the kitchen, teak is the perfect surface material to withstand the everyday wear and tear of a bathroom space. From setting down toiletries to handling splashing water, Teak Island’s counters can handle it all while retaining their refined appearance. The antibacterial properties of teak wood provide peace of mind as well.
Caring for Your Teak Countertops
While teak itself is highly durable, the right care regime ensures your Teak Island counters continue looking fantastic for decades. Here are some top tips for caring for teak counters:
- Wash frequently with mild soap and water using a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub pads.
- Blot spills immediately to prevent stains. Avoid letting water Pool on the surface.
- Apply a sealing agent like Teak Shield every 6-12 months to protect from moisture and staining.
- Re-sand lightly and reapply sealant every 2-3 years for a refreshed look.
- Avoid direct sun exposure which can cause the teak to dry out over time.
- Lift heavy objects to move them instead of dragging across the counters.
- Use trivets or hot pads under any heat-generating items like pans.
- Work with the wood’s grain patterns when cutting.
- If counters become excessively dried out, apply a light coat of food-safe mineral oil.
With this simple care routine, your Teak Island counters can stay resilient and maintain their rich beauty through years of busy kitchen and bathroom action. Always reach out to the experts at Teak Island if you have any questions or concerns about your counters.
Answering FAQs About Teak Countertops
Teak may be less common than options like marble or quartz in today’s homes. For those considering teak counters, there are likely some common questions about the material’s performance and maintenance needs. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Is teak resistant to water damage?
Yes, one of teak’s biggest assets is its water-resistant qualities. The wood’s high oil content causes water to bead up rather than soak in. As long as spills are promptly wiped up, the counters will be fine. Just avoid letting water pool on the surface.
Do teak counters require a lot of maintenance?
Teak is quite low-maintenance compared to many other counters. A simple wash with mild soap and water is all it needs for routine cleaning. Resealing every year or so will maintain its water-resistance and color. Teak’s natural oils also keep it resistant to bacteria build-up.
How durable is teak compared to other countertop materials?
With proper care, teak can easily last 50-70 years or longer before needing replacement. Its dense grains make it highly scratch and impact-resistant. Teak rates 1,070 on the Janka hardness scale, comparing favorably to hard maple, walnut, and even some granite surfaces. It can handle years of heavy usage with ease.
Can you cut directly on teak counters?
It’s best to use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on your counters. While teak stands up quite well to light cutting, the cutting action can slowly breakdown the finish over time. Using a designated cutting board will help maintain the counters.
Do you need to oil or finish teak counters regularly?
Most teak counters come pre-finished from the manufacturer to create a smooth surface and protect from staining. Reapplying a sealing agent like Teak Shield every year or so will maintain the finish. Occasional light sanding and resealing may be needed over time.
How do you clean teak counters?
For routine cleaning, wash teak counters with a damp soft cloth or sponge using gentle soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or excessive water exposure. Promptly blot any spills or messes instead of letting them sit.
Can you install teak counters outdoors?
Teak’s good water-resistance does make it suitable for some outdoor uses. However, constant outdoor exposure can cause drying and roughness over time. Using an outdoor-grade sealer can help protect outdoor teak surfaces somewhat. Indoor kitchen or bath use is still recommended for best results.
Does teak turn yellow over time?
When new, Teak Island counters have a light blonde or brown color. Over many years, teak wood can gradually shift towards a yellowish golden tone. This natural color change is not damage, but rather the patination that makes antique teak even more beloved. Proper cleaning and sealing helps preserve its color.
Is teak susceptible to mold or bacteria growth?
Untreated teak can be vulnerable to mold if exposed to excessive moisture. However, Teak Island properly prepares and seals their counters to prevent moisture absorption. This combined with teak’s natural antimicrobial oils helps resist mold or bacteria growth.
The Benefits of Choosing Teak Island for Your Countertops
After learning more about the performance benefits of teak wood, you may be sold on using it in your own home remodeling project. If so, Teak Island provides high-quality teak counters perfect for kitchens, baths, and more. Here’s an overview of why Teak Island is a smart choice:
Sustainably sourced teak – Their counters use 100% teak from managed plantations in Indonesia that adhere to strict environmental standards. You can feel good about using this responsibly harvested material.
Expert craftsmanship – Every Teak Island counter is milled, finished, and installed with unmatched skill. This ensures your counters not only look stunning, but also fit your space perfectly.
Custom options – Choose from multiple edge profiles, finishes, and sink options. Get your counters sized and cut precisely to your room dimensions.
Trusted company – With 20+ years in business, Teak Island has unparalleled expertise in designing and installing premium teak counters for discerning homeowners.
Great customer service – Their representatives are available to provide design advice and answer all your questions when planning your project. Ongoing support is provided too.
Nationwide availability – Teak Island has installed thousands of counters across the entire continental US. There are also showrooms in major cities where you can see their teak products in person.
If you have been inspired by the TOH Arlington project to explore teak counters for your home, Teak Island can make the process smooth from design to installation. Reach out today to get a quote for your kitchen or bathroom remodel using beautiful and durable teak wood.
Conclusion
The TOH Arlington Italianate house renovation demonstrates the elegance and versatility of Teak Island counters in both kitchens and bathrooms. Teak offers natural beauty, sturdiness, and low maintenance – making it an excellent option for busy family spaces. Whether you are remodeling a historic home or simply want to add wood’s warmth to your existing counters, teak manages to feel luxurious yet durable. Partnering with a quality supplier like Teak Island ensures you receive the upmost skill and care at every step of the process. Incorporating teak into your next home project can provide enjoyment and great performance for decades to come.