Oak upstand, skirting board

Finishing Options for Solid Wood Countertops

Unfinished (Raw) – This is our most cost-effective option and represents a natural stage in the countertop’s craftsmanship journey. The unfinished wooden countertop is produced to the same high structural and material standards as all of our finished pieces and is delivered in a completely unfinished state that requires substantial additional work before installation and use.

Delivered unsanded and untreated, this option features open knots, fissures, and natural voids, along with unfinished, non-smooth edges. As this timber is sourced from salvaged trees, these characteristics are to be expected and form part of its rustic charm.

Any filling of knots or voids –  using wood filler, resin, or alternative materials – is entirely at the client’s discretion and should be guided by personal aesthetic preference and intended use. Some clients choose to retain the open features to preserve the timber’s natural, rustic character, while others prefer a smoother, more uniform surface. Extensive sanding, surface preparation, filling (if desired), and the application of a protective finish are all the responsibility of the client. This worktop is not suitable for immediate use upon delivery.

This option is best suited to customers who have the tools, experience, and time to complete the finishing process themselves. It is ideal for hands-on individuals looking to fully customise their solid wood countertop from scratch, save on finishing costs, and create a truly unique piece tailored to their space.

Please note: tables and desks are only available as fully finished, fully protected products.

Fine Sanding Only (Ready for application of the protective finish of your choice) – Offered at a modestly higher cost than our raw (unfinished) option, the sanded countertop is supplied with a fully sanded, smooth surface that is ready for immediate application of the protective finish of your choice. Prominent natural features are professionally filled using resin or organic fillers to enhance visual appearance while preserving the wood’s natural character. Select features may be intentionally left open where they contribute to the piece’s overall aesthetic and natural charm. This option significantly reduces preparation time and is ideal for clients seeking a refined, semi-finished surface without the labour associated with full raw preparation.

Important note for the countertops that require on-site modifications – if your countertop requires on-site size adjustments or cutouts, you should choose either ‘unfinished’ or ‘sanded only’ option. This is because any pre-applied protective finish will be disrupted during your modifications, resulting in visible inconsistencies. If a pre-finished countertop is cut or altered on-site, the newly exposed, and treated by you areas, will not perfectly match the rest of the surface, leading to noticeable patchiness. To ensure a smooth, even finish, we recommend completing all size adjustments and/or cutouts first, then applying the protective treatment of your choice to the entire surface for a flawless result.

Professional Finishing – if  you want to receive your solid wood countertop ready to be used immediately (please note this option is only suitable for countertops that do not require on-site cut-outs or size adjustments), our in-house finishing service is the right choice. We offer 3 protective finishing options. Our natural oil finish enhances the wood’s natural depth and autumnal tones by penetrating deeper layers of timber. If you prefer to maintain the original light tones and textures, our transparent matt lacquer finish forms a barrier against damage without altering the wood’s natural appearance. For additional durability, you can also upgrade l to our signature, maintenance free waterproof protection (additional costs apply).

Fine sanding + subtle sheen oil

The unique properties of oil gradually enrich the wood’s grain, deepening its natural hues and enhancing its warm, autumnal tones.  As the oil penetrates the deeper layers of the solid wood countertop, it creates a protective effect that helps prevent damage even as the top layer naturally fades over time.

One of the key advantages of an oil finish is its easy maintenance – surface imperfections can be repaired with sanding and fresh re-application. However, oil-finished surfaces are more prone to marking from liquids, making them less suitable for kitchens, bathrooms or utility rooms.

To keep your solid wood countertop nourished and looking its best, regular re-oiling with light sanding between the coats is essential. This finish is ideal for those who appreciate the natural beauty of wood and don’t mind the upkeep required to maintain its charm.

Please note that an oil finish naturally has a subtle sheen and may bring out slightly orangey undertones in the wood – particularly in lighter species such as oak, ash, or elm.

Fine sanding + matt lacquer 

Our matt lacquer finish offers natural look while providing a low-maintenance protection for solid wood countertops. As a cost-effective, water-resistant solution, it is ideal for surfaces exposed to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and utility rooms, as well as solid wood tables and breakfast bars.

We offer our lacquer in a matt finish as standard, unless a gloss finish is specifically requested. However, we would advise against opting for gloss finish – it tends to highlight every mark and scratch, making it a less forgiving choice over time.

Unlike oil, which deepens the wood’s tones, matt lacquer preserves the wood’s original colour palette while adding a transparent protective layer. The matt finish not only enhances the wood’s natural beauty but also helps conceal scratches and marks, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

Fine sandding + waterproof protection + oil / lacquer – matt finish effect

Our exclusive, no-maintenance waterproof protection, developed in-house by Earthy Timber, is applied in a vacuum environment –  a process unavailable anywhere else. This cutting-edge treatment provides the highest level of resistance against scratches, stains, and moisture while preserving the natural beauty and tactile feel of your solid wood countertop.

Designed for heavy-use surfaces such as dining tables and bathroom countertops, this advanced finish is highly resistant to water, heat, alcohol, and food acids. It also features a non-yellowing, UV-protected formula, ensuring your countertop remains flawless for years without the need for reapplication.

With its matt finish, Earthy Timber’s waterproof protection amplifies the wood’s natural grain and tones, adding depth while maintaining its organic beauty. Unlike glossy finishes that may alter the timber’s appearance, our waterproof treatment enhances the wood’s character in a subtle, authentic way.

For those seeking the ultimate protection with zero maintenance, this premium finish is available upon request for an additional cost. To add it to your order, please email us.