Butcher block is one of the most widely used kitchen countertop materials. Not only does it work well with most types of interior decor, but it is also built to last. When properly maintained, butcher block is highly functional and can create a kitchen that looks warm and inviting.
However, whether this is your first time using butcher block in your kitchen, or you are simply thinking about replacing your existing countertops, then there are a few points to consider before committing to any major decisions. So, let us discover 3 things you need to know when shopping for butcher block kitchen countertops.
Regular Maintenance is Crucial
In general, it is no secret that butcher block countertops typically require more maintenance than marble or stone surfaces. In order to protect the natural wood, your countertop will need to treated with mineral oil. You might also have to use sandpaper to sand down and fill in any nicks or scratches as and when they occur. On average, to keep the wood looking at its best, butcher block should be treated in this way once a year.Of course, that being said, if you use chopping boards over the top of your wooden surfaces, and if you are more careful about what you place on your countertops, they might last much longer without needing any additional aftercare. On the whole, if maintained properly, there is no denying that butcher block countertops can last for a long time. If you would like to learn more about maintaining a butcher block island- construction2style and other interior design websites are filled with useful resources and helpful tips.
Butcher Block Comes in Different Styles
One of the major advantages of butcher block is that you have a lot of choice when picking the right type of wood for your kitchen. Put simply, the finish of your countertops can be totally customized through your choice of edge or end wood grain. Whereas edge grain is made by placing long boards on their sides and joining them so that the long narrow edges form the surface of the block, end-grain is made from small rectangular blocks that are arranged so that the ends are visible. Because of its hardy nature, end grain is typically the more expensive option.Additionally, you can also choose your type of wood. This means that if you are aiming to achieve a darker and moodier vibe, you can choose butcher block made from teak and cherry woods. Alternatively, for modern kitchens that are designed with light and airiness as priorities, blonde bamboo styles are popular choices. Oak, birch, and maple are also widely available and so there is a huge amount of flexibility in terms of hardness, durability, and general appearance.
Wooden Surfaces Should Be Handled with Care
Wood absorbs liquid incredibly quickly and therefore any water spillages that are not dealt with promptly can lead to mould. Similarly, tea, coffee and tomato-based products are also likely to stain as a result of the porous nature of countertops made from butcher block. Heat from a stove or pots and pans can also burn wood, leading to cracks and bubbles in the surface of your counter. Accordingly, while wood is celebrated for its durability, it is still a sensitive surface and so it is crucial to be cautious and to treat butcher block countertops with care.By the same token, although it can be tempting to skip using cutting boards and instead chop food items directly on your counter, it is strongly recommended that you do still use boards as much as possible to prolong the life of your surfaces. Again, wood is porous, and butcher block countertops can accumulate dirt and bacteria surprisingly quickly. In order to keep germs at bay it is vital that you clean your countertops after each use with mild soap or water and vinegar.
Ultimately, if you are not quite sure if butcher block is right for you, one of the most important things to remember is that you can always test it out by resurfacing a small section of your kitchen first. Above all, by doing plenty of research into the different types of butcher block, you can find the best possible countertop option for your kitchen to complement your chosen interior style.Investing in high quality countertops is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your kitchen and to increase the value of your home. To learn more about boosting the value of your property, take a look at these five remodelling tips.
