FINISHING OPTIONS

Waterlox Urethane Finish

Recommended for tops with sinks installed

All of our finishes are hand-rubbed and applied by our skilled craftsmen to ensure lasting beauty and protection. If you choose a Waterlox finish for your countertop, please note that it’s not suitable for direct cutting, but it is durable, water-resistant, and food safe when fully cured.

Think of your wood top as a fine piece of furniture — it deserves care and attention. The longevity of your Waterlox finish depends on how you use and maintain your surface. Like natural wood furniture, your countertop will gracefully age over time. With proper care, the finish can last for many years without the need for recoating.

A good rule of thumb: apply a fresh coat if the surface starts to look worn or dull, or if water begins to penetrate the finish. You can also touch up smaller areas, though blending can be tricky — sometimes a full recoat is easier and more consistent.

For detailed product information, visit www.waterlox.com, and be sure to check out our Care and Maintenance page for tips on cleaning and protecting your wood countertop.

Staining Your Wood Countertop

While most of our countertops are finished in their natural wood color, we also offer the option to add a stain for a custom look. We use two trusted brands of wiping stains — ZAR Premium Oil-Based Stains and Old Masters Premium Oil-Based Stains — and you’re welcome to choose from any of their stock colors. 

At Sprague Woodworking, we love the natural colors of the wood species we use, which easily complement any home’s color palette. With the variety of woods we offer, you’ll likely find a natural option that perfectly suits your space.

For customers seeking a custom-stained color, you are responsible for providing an oil-based wiping stain of your choice. 

If you’re considering placing an order, we can send photos of wood color samples electronically to help you narrow down your options. Once you’ve selected a few favorites, we’re happy to create real wood samples upon request for $25 each. If you move forward with your order, we’ll credit up to $100 in sample costs toward your purchase.

Please note: We do not offer color matching. Because stain absorbs differently depending on the wood species and grain, there are countless variations in tone and appearance, making exact matches impossible.

Mineral Oil / Beeswax Finish

Recommended for cutting boards, cutting blocks, or for a more rustic, natural appearance (regular reapplication of the mineral oil is necessary)

This finish is a great option for cutting boards, as it’s easy to refresh and maintain regularly. It can also be applied to countertops; however, keep in mind that it requires frequent upkeep — you’ll need to reapply oil every 3–4 weeks to keep the wood protected and looking its best.

To maintain the finish, simply apply Howard Mineral Oil and Beeswax Conditioner (our preferred product) using a cotton rag or paper towel. Reapply every couple of weeks to prevent the wood from drying out. You can learn more about the product here: Howard Butcher Block Conditioner.

With this type of finish, you can expect the wood surface to feel slightly textured, and the grain may raise a bit after wiping it down with water. Regular reapplication is essential to keep your cutting board or countertop in top condition.