Come see how butcher block countertops can invite warmth and function into your home. With proper care, they can be a beautiful addition to your home for years to come. You might be considering them, but wondering if they’re a good idea. Are they safe for food? Will they hold up to water? Butcher block countertops can do it all, adding a rich, elegant wood tone for ambience and
classic style. Learn more in this complete guide! You know me, I love to make homes feel warm and cozy, and butcher block is a perfect way to do it! In our recently finished basement bar, we decided to add warmth and a soft, light finish with these beautiful countertops. Butcher block isn’t just for one design aesthetic, either. Yes, it fits with
traditional and farmhouse style. But even modern style can use the warmth of wood and still feel sleek. If you’d like to read about other types of countertop materials, here’s why I love danby marble, alternatives to marble, and all about quartz
countertops. We also discuss other materials, including laminate, solid surface, and concrete in this post about styles of countertop edges. Use the drop down Table of Contents menu to navigate this post, and don’t forget to pin it and save for later! What Is Butcher Block?Butcher block, also called butcher’s block, is a wood surface that is made of narrow strips of wood glued together and sanded to create one thick, smooth slab. It is a durable countertop material, as well as an attractive one. Often when people refer to wood countertops, they’re really talking about butcher block. Many wood countertops are maple, although oak, walnut, cherry, hickory, and teak are other popular options. You can stain butcher block countertops to any color you like, or you can simply seal them their natural color. Frequently Asked QuestionsCan you put hot pans on butcher block? No, hot pots and pans can burn wood counters and even cause it to crack. It’s best to use a trivet or hot pad to protect the surface from heat. Are butcher block countertops sanitary? Butcher block counters are sanitary once they are properly sealed. If left unsealed, they will absorb germs and bacteria and will be unsafe for food preparation. Properly sealed, they are perfectly safe and sanitary for food prep. They do need to be resealed regularly. What kind of wood is used for butcher block countertops? Butcher block can be made from maple, oak, cherry, hickory, teak, bamboo, at more. At a significantly higher cost, you can pay a craftsman to make butcherblock from virtually any wood. How much do butcher block countertops cost? Butcher block is an affordable countertop option, with the countertops themselves ranging from $23-$60 per square foot. Installation, of course, will be an additional fee. Pros and Cons of Butcher Block CountertopsPros
Cons
While it isn’t recommended for use in bathrooms because it isn’t the most moisture-resistant option, there are so many ways to use butcher block.
Butcher Block StainHow do you finish them? You can stain them, seal with polyurethane, choose a matte or glossy finish, or simply condition with mineral oil. Finishing with mineral oil requires the most upkeep, since you’ll need to reapply monthly as the wood dries out. However, it’s also the easiest to do, since you don’t need to sand anything down to refinish the surface.
If you’ll be staining, remember to sample a small section first, because woods handle stains and colors differently. See our favorite stain and sealant option in the sources section at the end of this post. How to Maintain Wood CountertopsButcher block has a reputation for being high maintenance – don’t let that deter you. With the proper care, your butcher block countertops can stay beautiful for years to come. Daily Care
Removing Stains
Butcher block can also be sanded lightly with a high-grit sandpaper to remove stains. Sources
Join Our Community Let’s keep in touch! Receive exclusive content, including never-seen-before photos, our favorite home decor DIYs and more! More Kitchen InspirationKitchen & Dining Reader InteractionsWhat color goes best with butcher block countertops?Whether you have butcher block countertops or plan to install them, choosing the right cabinet color is essential. We found that colors like white, black, cream, grey, blue, and green will all work well with this countertop design.
Should cabinets be lighter or darker than countertops?Either way, the color cabinetry you're dealing with can go a long way in helping to steer you in the right direction. Currently, the trend is to use lighter countertops with darker cabinets. This concept enhances the contrast between your tops and cabinets, but it also has its practical reasons too.
What is the downside of using butcher block countertops?Butcher Block Countertop Cons
Stains and Scratches: Harder woods might not suffer from scratches as much as softer woods, but all wood will stain if not cleaned quickly. Some people will use butcher block like a cutting board but they invite germs, mold and even warping.
Is GREY cabinets out of style?They have a timeless appearance: Since grey cabinetry fits many different designs, it'll never go out of style. When modern kitchens replace traditional ones, your grey cabinets will still match without looking vintage.
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