Five Popular Woods for Custom Bar Tops in Houston, TX

Regardless of which watering hole you choose to go to for a frosty beverage, chances are, you’ll be sitting at a bar made from wood. It’s a classic look that’s been used for bar tops at pubs, saloons and taverns for centuries. There’s just something about a wood bar top that can’t be beat. That’s why folks who choose to build a bar in their own home usually opt to make it out of wood.

If you’re thinking about making a bar for your home, there are tons of woods to choose from. The wood that’s right for you depends on your budget, personal taste and your crafting ability. Here are a few of the most popular choices when it comes to building custom bar tops in Houston, TX:

  • Oak: This is a great choice if you want a bar top that’s going to stand the test of time and not warp when it inevitably gets wet from spilled drinks. There are dozens of different varieties of oak in both the red oak and white oak families to choose from; one will surely match the style you’re going for. It’s relatively cheap and easy to work with, so it’s ideal for a novice who wants a great-looking bar.
  • Pine: Pine is another wood that has dozens of varieties that can be stained easily to match the décor of your home. It’s usually used in construction projects because it’s easy to work with and relatively inexpensive. Pine doesn’t have the highest rot resistance rating, so if you’re using it for custom bar tops in Houston, TX, be sure to coat it with a thick layer of varnish.
  • Poplar: Poplar is great if you have a small budget, but still really want a bar. It’s not a particularly beautiful wood, but it stains really well. It’s also very easy to work with, so it’s great for a novice woodworker. As with pine, you’ll need to apply a thick coat of varnish to a poplar bar top. It can also be susceptible to insect attacks, so don’t use it if you want an outside bar!
  • Walnut: This is a great wood for a bar top that’s sure to stand the test of time, and look great in the process. If the grain is straight, walnut can be easy to work with. If it’s not, walnut can be a little difficult to cut for novices.
  • Bubinga: If you’re trying to get a little exotic with your bar top, bubinga may be the wood for you. This African wood can have beautiful grain figures that will really be a conversation starter when friends come over for a pint or two. It’s also very strong and durable—a necessity when it comes to bar top materials. Since it’s so strong, it can be difficult to work with. Craftsmen note that it has the tendency to dull blades, so be prepared for that.

Visit Houston Hardwoods Inc. when you’re ready to start planning for new bar tops in Houston, TX. Let our friendly staff members help you choose the right wood for you and your budget!