Remodeling the home kitchen maybe one of the most stressful remodeling projects that a homeowner could undertake. There are so many options for cabinets, appliances, flooring, lighting, and countertops that may make deciding on what a person prefers difficult. This article will discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages butcher block style countertops can offer, and if you are handy why you should attempt to install them yourself.
The natural and warm look of wood is a pleasing bonus to any room, but especially in the kitchen. Chefs and home cooks have used butcher block countertops for ages because of their beautiful appearance, durability, and practicality. Butcher block counter tops may not be as durable as some styles of countertops such as tile, granite and corian but are more durable than formica and laminate countertops. Butcher block countertops are usually made from oak or maple, woods that are known for their solidity, but they can also be purchased in cherry, teak, walnut, and almost any other type of wood. Even exotic varieties of woods can be ordered to suit the homeowners taste. On most oak and maple blocks, cooks can cut directly on the countertop without permanently damaging the surface or the knife edge and most knife indentions can be buffed out with light sanding from a sanding block and rubbing in a mineral oil. The other types of woods are reserved exclusively for an aesthetic appearance and cannot be cut on.
If someone just prefers the look of butcher block countertops, but doesn’t actually plan to use the countertop for cutting they can have the countertop permanently wood sealed. This way the countertop is easier to clean and maintain. Sealed butcher block countertops also maintain a consistent color over time and are, by and large, water resistant. Unsealed countertops or oil-finished countertops are used for cutting and chopping, but since they are unsealed or just oil-finished, they can warp or turn black from excess water. To minimize this from happening, a person just needs to be diligent about cleaning and keeping the block moderately dry. Also, it is wise not to install unsealed butcher block countertops near a sink or other water supply.
Even after a person has tried to main the appearance of their butcher block countertop, like with most countertops, everyday wear and tear may mar the appearance. One of the greatest advantages of butcher block countertops, over other leading countertops, is their ability to be refinished. Block countertops can be sanded down and refinished, achieving a brand-new appearance at relatively no cost. When well cared for, butcher block countertops have the capability to last for an indefinite period.
Butcher block can be custom ordered to any size to fit any size countertop. If possible, installing the countertops yourself will save large amounts of money. With a little research and some elbow grease you will be suprised at how well of a job you can do on your own, while saving money at the same time.