Choosing the Right Cutting Board Wood: Larch vs. Maple vs. White Oak

Selecting the right wood for a cutting board isn’t just about looks — it’s about performance, durability, and how it feels under your knife. At Deer Park Woodwork, we work with premium hardwoods that balance strength, beauty, and longevity.

Here’s how Larch Wood, Maple, and White Oak compare — three species that each bring something special to the kitchen.

1. Hardness and Durability

When it comes to durability, all three are strong contenders. On the Janka hardness scale, maple scores around 1,450 lbf, white oak around 1,360 lbf, and larch roughly 830–950 lbf, depending on the cut.

That means maple and white oak are harder and more resistant to dents and deep knife marks, while larch offers a slightly softer surface that’s easier on knives. End-grain larch, in particular, is known for its self-healing quality — the fibers close up after cuts, helping the board stay smooth over time.

2. Grain and Appearance

Each wood type has its own unique personality:

• Larch Wood has a warm, honey-golden tone with distinct growth rings that create beautiful, organic patterns — especially in end-grain boards. Its visual depth makes every board one-of-a-kind.

• Maple is classic and clean, with a pale, creamy colour and a tight, uniform grain. It’s a timeless favourite for professional and home kitchens alike.

• White Oak has a slightly darker tone, ranging from light brown to golden tan, with a fine, straight grain that feels refined and elegant.

If you’re drawn to natural warmth and character, larch delivers that artisanal charm. For a sleek, polished look, maple or white oak might be your match.

3. Water Resistance and Stability

Moisture resistance is one area where these woods differ noticeably.

• White Oak is naturally resistant to water thanks to its closed cellular structure and the presence of tyloses, which block moisture from entering the grain.

• Larch, while a softwood, contains natural resins that make it more water-resistant than many hardwoods. This helps prevent swelling and cracking, especially when properly oiled.

• Maple, though durable, is more prone to absorbing water if left untreated. Regular conditioning is essential to prevent warping or staining.

In short: white oak is the most water-resistant, larch is impressively stable for its class, and maple performs beautifully with consistent care.

4. Knife Friendliness

Your choice of wood affects how your knives perform.

• Larch Wood offers the most forgiving surface — gentle on blades and ideal for end-grain boards, which allow knife edges to slip between fibers rather than cut against them.

• Maple provides a firm cutting surface that’s still gentle enough for everyday use.

• White Oak, though slightly harder, maintains a nice balance of toughness and workability, giving a solid feel without dulling knives too quickly.

If preserving your knife’s edge is a top priority, larch is the most blade-friendly option.

5. Maintenance and Longevity

All cutting boards last longer when properly cared for. Regular oiling with board oil or board butter keeps the surface hydrated and protected.

• White Oak is the lowest maintenance — its tight grain and water resistance help it stay stable over time.

• Larch benefits from its natural resins, and has strong antimicrobial properties.

• Maple requires regular conditioning to prevent dryness and surface stains but rewards you with a clean, timeless look for years.

With proper care, all three woods can last decades — aging beautifully and developing a rich patina over time.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose Larch Wood if you love a warm, natural look and want a surface that’s easy on your knives — ideal for chefs who value craftsmanship and comfort.

• Choose Maple if you prefer a classic, light-toned board that’s durable, balanced, and clean-looking.

• Choose White Oak if you want strength, moisture resistance, and timeless elegance with minimal maintenance.

Each of these woods has its own strengths, but larch wood stands out for its unique balance of beauty, practicality, and knife-friendly performance — especially when crafted in an end-grain design.