Solid beech work top any good?

[Julesnobrain]

Hi we are putting a new kitchen. DH has chosen black gloss cuboards and a solid beech worktop from Howdens. It looks lovely in the picture but is it practical? I have a perception the work top will get all scratched and faded. I need it to last at least 10 years (Hopefully). Views? Experiences?

I have a walnut one and had it for one year so far. It needs occasional oiling to keep it waterproof and there are a few scratches. But they can be sanded out if you are that bothered by them or leave them in to add character if you like it like that.

I would get it again.

We had a beech worktop (changed kitchen so top went aswell) had it for 5 years and was great. I miss it.

I've just had oak installed, and it's excellent. As long as you do all the oiling that you're supposed to wood is fab.

I have solid ash or beech - I cant recall which! Anyway, its fantastic and not at all as high maintinance as some lead you to believe. I oiled it with Danish oil - about 3 coats - before it was fitted and then the rule was oil it once a week for a month, then once a month for a year. cant remember past that but I can tell you i have not oiled it for a year and it looks great/ Just dont leave wet things on it or drippy tea spoons etc as you may get that white style watrermark p altough can always sand that bit and re oil. Solid wood looks really good and imo can make a non expewnsive kitchen look far more expensive as peoles eyes are drawn to the solid wood workstops.