Hi there, we always specify a lacquered finish for our oak worktops as the finish is significantly more durable than an oiled wooden worktop. If for example you split some red wine, even if it was left for an amount of time, it would easily wipe clean from a lacquered surface. Whereas with the oiled surface, it would likely damage it. The same goes for grease which is the biggest culprit of stained wooden worktops - things like meat juices as you mention above, will absorb into an oiled worktop. As with any worktop, even granite, placing hot pans or ovenware directly onto the surface of the worktop will cause some level of damage, typically leaving a scorch mark. Laquered oak worktops can withstand things like cups and mugs of hot drinks where the heat is raised slightly from the surface. Lastly, we use specialist lacquer for our worktops which give a beautiful sheen, but not a shine. So often you see wooden worktops ruined with a shiny uneven lacquer. Ours are applied in layers and cut back to ensure a even, smooth finish. If you need any further advice feel free to give us a call.

Hi, There is a huge range of marble-like quartz surfaces currently available from various brands such as Silestone, Caesarstone, Dekton,Quartzforms, Technistone & Cimstone. A marble-like quartz can give you the desired look AND easy maintenance!

Hello Tina, I wish I could see your posting earlier. Yes, we do 1:1 printings on a glass which looks exactly like wood, additionally you may want us to make it using matt paint, so it won't be shiny. Moreover, if you will request (free) quote for countertop and splashback combined, we will apply 25% discount for your order. Here are some examples of our work: Let me know if you like it so I will arrange a callback whenever you want :) Glad we can help.

Any pale colour will stain if you treat it badly so even quartz which is considered to be hardwearing will need care so you don’t leave anything on it that has a strong colour (such as red wine spills etc). Beware- the inexpensive quartz seems to be more plain while the more veined patterns can be three times the price. If you are comfortable with a higher price range you might consider porcelain style products like Dekton where marble like products are widely available.