If you are looking to upgrade your kitchen, butcher block countertops may be just what you need!

Kitchens have always been considered the heart of any home. That being said, a kitchen’s countertops play a significant role as well.

Regardless of your kitchen’s size or style, eye-pleasing, durable, and optimally functional countertops are a necessity.

But how do you choose from so many countertop options with such wide price ranges?

Is there a one-countertop-fits-all section?

-Well, not necessarily.

But you can rest assured that butcher block countertops make an excellent addition to almost any kitchen.

Let’s discuss why butcher block counters may be the way to go in your kitchen.

Butcher Block Countertops – Pricing & Installation

Butcher block countertops are considered one of the more affordable options when choosing countertop materials- costing on average, anywhere from $20-$60 per square foot.

Because of how easy butcher block countertops are to acquire and install, they’ve quickly become one of the few countertop styles that are a dream come true for DIY’ers.

Unlike bulky and hard to modify stone countertop options, butcher block counters only require accurate measurements and a few necessary tools/materials. Sounds easy, right?

Wood Countertop Style & Color Options

The primary choice to consider when picking out your butcher block countertops is whether you want end grain or edge grain. So, what’s the difference?

End Grain Wood Countertops:

End Grain wood counters are where the ends of the wood’s fibers are fully exposed. Although end grain may cost a bit more than edge grain, it will last longer and is much more resistant to wear and tear.

Edge Grain Wood Countertops:

Edge Grain wood counters are where the countertops’ entire surface is made up of the side edges of the wood you’ve chosen.

Style Options & Modifications

Because you’ve chosen natural wood materials, the wide variety of wood textures, grain sizes, and natural hues make up quite a large style selection.

Another notable perk of choosing butcher block countertops is the option to stain the wood to better suit your home’s existing decor and your color preferences.

Staining also offers the ability to make your kitchen’s overall tone feel warmer or cooler by merely choosing a stain that fits your needs.

“Do butcher block countertops need to be sealed?”

 –  It’s probably the most common question we get!

How you should choose to treat your natural wood countertops’ surface all depends on the preferred use you have for them.

But yes- Your countertops should either be treated with mineral oil or fully sealed before use.

However, you should understand the difference between the two-

Mineral Oil Treatment for Wood Countertops:

If you plan to retain the wood’s natural feel and use your countertops as a cutting board, you should only treat the countertops with high-grade mineral oil.

Regular countertop sealants aren’t compatible with the uses and preferences typically associated with butcher block countertops (like using them as a cutting board).

Using a Complete Sealant on Wood Countertops:

Suppose you do not wish to use your butcher block countertops as a cutting board and only care to preserve their original look- In that case, you may consider a regular countertop sealant for maximum protection.

Regardless, it is recommended to seal or treat your butcher block countertops at least once a year for optimal appearance, stain resistance, and durability.

Sealants and treatments are the best way to ensure that your wood countertops retain optimal moisture levels within the wood while simultaneously shielding against any excess absorption that could damage your countertops.

When cared for properly and sealed/treated regularly, butcher block countertops can last upwards of 20 years!

Side note: If you plan to stain the wood, you will need to do so before applying any sealant or oil treatment.

It is possible to go back and stain your wood countertops post-treatment, but the countertops would have to be sanded back down to the natural grain first so that the surface can accept the staining agent.

Afterward, of course, you will need to re-seal/treat your countertops to restore protection.

How to Maintain Your Butcher Block Countertops

Maintaining your new butcher style countertops is easy. They just require a little extra love and care from time to time to maintain their appeal and durability.

Everyday Butcher Block Maintenance:

• Clean the butcher block surfaces well after every use.
• Avoid cutting raw meat on your wood countertops as scratches and unprotected areas can harbor bacteria.
• Avoid allowing spills or moisture to sit on the surface, as this may cause stains and excess moisture to settle into the wood.
• Avoid direct heat, as this could warp the wood.

Extended Butcher Block Maintenance:

• Be sure to re-treat/seal your countertops at least once a year.
• For oil-treated countertops- Keep sandpaper and high-grade mineral oil on hand to help take care of occasional touch-ups, such as light stain and scratch removal. A soft surface-sanding here and there, followed by a mineral oil spot treatment, is a great way to maintain your beautiful counters.

Overall, with just the right amount of tender love and care, your butcher block countertops should serve you well and keep your kitchen beautiful for many years to come!

Get Your Butcher Block Countertops Today!

To find the perfect butcher block countertops for your home, contact the 99 Cent Floor Store today!

We are happy to answer all of your questions and offer you the best butcher block counter materials available.

Our experienced professionals are looking forward to helping you upgrade the heart of your home!