Wood and Butcher Block Kitchen Countertops

While options aren’t what’s lacking when it comes to choosing a new kitchen countertop, most people are still drawn to the so-called forever classics. 

Wood, a true timeless classic, is natural-looking and rustic. Need I say more? But, before you make your final decision, keep reading to learn all there is to know about wood plank and butcher block countertops for a kitchen renovation project success. 

Benefits of Wood or Butcher Block Countertops

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Given their smooth surface, wood or butcher block countertops are super easy to clean, and they so happen to add unparalleled warmth to any kitchen. Moreover, it’s worth knowing that wood is naturally acidic, meaning it prevents bacteria from proliferating on its surface. Needless to say, the application of a sealant is essential; without it, wood retains its porosity and turns into a literal breeding ground for bacteria.

Another merit worth noting is that wooden countertops are sound absorbers, which is unquestionably a worthy asset in the kitchen. Lastly, note that wood countertops can be recycled when nearing the end of their life cycles, which makes for an eco-friendly choice. 

Types of Wood to Consider: Walnut, Oak, and Maple

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Whether you’re looking into getting a plank of wood or butcher block countertop, your best options are beech, teak, and oak. However, there are alternatives to the above-mentioned, such as mahogany, cherry, walnut, and maple. Since wood isn’t as resilient as other materials, it’s best to choose a type of wood renowned for its durability, such as white oak. 

For an Eco-Friendly Choice

Are you hyper-aware of making an environmentally responsible choice? Opting for regional or FSC-certified wood (Forest Stewardship Council) ensures that the wood used to make your countertop wasn’t sourced from a forest in which the harvesting process violates territorial rights or infringes on the preservation of endangered species. 

That way, you can be confident that your new purchase wasn’t sourced from a plantation-converted forest or made with genetically modified trees. By making an eco-conscious choice when it comes to your new renovation project, you're essentially contributing to the conservation efforts made to forests' ecosystems, paying it forward for future generations to come. 

Wood Coupled with Another Material

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Oftentimes, pairing wood with another material comes highly recommended for two reasons. First, bear in mind that beyond wood’s raw-like state, it might not be as solid as you’d think; it’s still vulnerable and must be rigorously maintained to uphold its appearance through the years. By limiting the span of wooden surfaces, you’re essentially making your life (or cleaning routine) much simpler.

Second, note that wood tends to darken over time due to moisture. As such, it’s highly advisable to avoid using said material around sinks. If you still wish to do so, consider a top-mount rather than an undermount sink.

How to Protect Your Hardwood Countertops

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On this matter, let’s start off by saying that your countertops must be sealed with an oil treatment (linseed or tung oil) or with a clear varnish to prevent premature wearing, given that wood is especially prone to scratching. Also, using oil or varnish to maintain the wood’s waterproofing is paramount. 

If your countertop is already scratched, you can always resort to sanding the surface. The restoration route is worthwhile for whoever wants to salvage their butcher block and avoid spending a considerable amount of money on a new kitchen countertop.

Should you prefer to use varnish, opt for a GREENGUARD-certified product. The latter is proof that certain contaminants aren’t found in the product, such as volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, or total aldehydes. 

What Type of Oil Can You Use on a Butcher Block Countertop?

Here are two sought-after and effective oils used on wood countertops:

Linseed oil:

• Made from linseeds and often used to treat wood;

• Seeps deep into the wood grain, protects from moisture, and gives the surface a satin-like finish;

• Must be applied in several thin coats.  

Tung oil:

• Extracted from the seeds of a tung tree nut and appreciated for its robustness;

• Forms a water-resistant film, thereby making the wood less susceptible to staining and warping;

• Also must be applied in several thin coats and takes longer to dry. It’s more resistant than linseed oil and ideal for routinely used surfaces.

How much is a wooden kitchen countertop? What's the cost?

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On average, wood countertops cost between $12 and $110 per square foot. However, if your project entails building an unconventionally-shaped countertop, the necessary budget may be a lot steeper. 

Furthermore, note that price points are highly variable from one tree species to the next, so it’s well worth taking the time to weigh your options. 

Still on the Fence About Whether to Buy a Wood or Butcher Block Counter?

Is wood your sole option, with no way around it, yet you’re still undecided about what type of wood is best suited for your project? Check out our article How to Choose Your Kitchen Countertop to help guide your decision-making process. On the other hand, wood might not prove to be the right countertop material for your kitchen. Rest assured, there are a lot of worthwhile alternatives. After perusing our article on the matter, you’ll find the right fit, there's no doubt it.