Edge Profiles
Butcher Block Countertops
Follow these instructions to get the best possible performance from your oiled wood top:
- Wash your block by hand only using antibacterial dish soap and warm water. Do not submerge the block in water! Add one teaspoon of bleach or vinegar to one gallon of water for extra disinfecting power. You can also rub the block with half a lemon to kill bacteria. Our blocks are not dishwasher safe. Thoroughly dry the block after washing. If you have a small block such as a cutting board, wash both sides and allow the block to dry standing up on edge, if possible. This will help prevent warping and ensure the block dries properly.
- Periodically oil the block. Neglecting to oil your block will result in it drying out, which is the #1 cause of problems with wood blocks. A good rule of thumb is to oil your block once a week for the first month, then at least monthly thereafter. The frequency of oiling will vary depending on the environment and the amount of use. If the wood appears dry, it’s time to oil. You’ll know if you’re oiling your block too often if it becomes sticky. Simply clean it with a grease-cutting dish detergent like Dawn®.
- Do not allow liquid to stand on the block for a long period of time. This can stain the butcher block and cause the wood to expand, which may result in glue-joint failure or warping.
- Use a steel scraper or sandpaper as needed to keep the top smooth and free of deep cuts or any food buildup, then re-oil the top.
- Never put your block in the microwave or dishwasher. Never place it on stove burners. Do not place hot pots or pans on the surface.
Follow these instructions to get the best possible performance from your clear lacquered finished wood countertop:
- Exercise care during the first month of having your countertop as the finish is not completely cured and may be more susceptible to scratching or damage. Wash only with soap and water during the first 30 days and avoid placing heavy items on the surface.
- Following this break-in period, you can clean your block using antibacterial dish soap and warm water, or your preferred antibacterial cleanser. Thoroughly dry the countertop after washing.
- Do not chop directly on a block with a clear finish. Use a cutting board.
- Do not expose tops to excessive heat, cold or moisture! Do not place hot pots or pans on the surface. We offer integrated trivets on our wood countertops if you require a surface for hot items.
- Ensure unglazed pottery items have a protective pad underneath to avoid accidentally scratching the countertop.
- You can knead dough, prepare sandwiches and safely place food products on finished wood countertops.
End Grain Construction
End grain construction (shown at left) is the premium construction style and our recommended surface for direct food preparation. In end grain construction, small wood pieces stand vertically to show only the ends of the wood.
Edge Grain Construction
In an edge grain top, the wood pieces are laid out with long strips running lengthwise along the top (shown at right). All strips will be continuous with no joints, unless the length of the top is excessive. In such instances, we’ll discuss this with you on a case-by-case basis.
Flat Grain Construction
In a flat grain top, the wood pieces are premium wide plank flat sawn boards. The pieces are generally wider in size (see image at left). Widths will vary depending on the species and sizes of wood available at the time of manufacturing and will be randomly sized unless otherwise specified.