About Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block countertops evolved out of the necessity to create a safe and sanitary workspace for cutting meat. Prior to 1881, butchers cut meat on nothing more than tree rounds balanced on wooden legs. Aside from being an unstable surface on which to work, tree rounds were susceptible to cracking and splintering, making them the ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria. It was the Michigan Maple Block Co., of Petroskey, Michigan, that created the first welded butcher block. Today, butcher block countertops have become an aesthetically pleasing and functional kitchen accessory.

Types

There are several types of butcher block countertops; maple wood blocks are the most traditional. Ash countertops contain lighter hues of brown, while black walnut is a variegated surface of deep browns and creamy whites. The reddish-brown tints of cherry wood make it a popular choice, not only for its beautiful grain, but also because it ages well. Similarly, the soft browns of teak give kitchens a more exotic look. Red oak has a heavy grain, which makes it a suitable design choice for larger kitchens.

Lyptus wood is one of the newer woods used in the production of butcher block countertops. Grown on plantations, this "certified green" wood is harvested using eco-friendly practices. When the lyptus tree is cut down, the stump is left in place, and from the stump sprouts a new tree. Each subsequent lyptus tree can be harvested up to five times.

Size

The standard size for most butcher block countertops is 25, 30 or 36 inches deep and 1 1/2 inches thick. However, countertop lengths can range from 12 to 144 inches. Although standard sizes are more economical and readily available, manufacturers can cut countertops to size according to your needs and specifications.

Finishes

Durakryl 102 is but one way manufacturers can finish wooden butcher block countertops. This laboratory-tested, non-toxic finish is water repellant and resistant to most household chemicals. Durakryl 102 is 95 percent cured during the manufacturing process and 100 percent cured upon completion, totally hardening before installation. But the most traditional finish for butcher block countertops, and any wooden cutting surface for that matter, is mineral oil.

Maintenance

Butcher block countertops finished with mineral oil should be periodically oiled, generally once a month, to prevent them from drying out. Any nicks and scratches can be lightly sanded and the surface re-oiled. When cleaning the countertops, simply use warm water and a mild soap.

Countertops finished with Durakryl 102 are virtually maintenance free. Stains can be removed with a bleach solution, and scrapes mended with a gentle sanding. "Good Stuff" is a product that can be applied on countertops finished with Durakryl 102 to fill in unwanted marks.

Misconceptions

Despite what the name implies, butcher block countertops should not be used as a cutting surface. Although countertops finished with Durakryl 102 are more resistant to cuts and scrapes, those finished with mineral oil can be compromised by improper treatment. To preserve the look of your countertops, always use a smaller butcher block or cutting board when cutting food.