Stylin’ Butcher Block Countertops To Cook And Cut
As with many new interior design progressions over time, butcher blocks originated from a desperate commercial necessity. The meat industry needed a safer and more sanitary way to cut large pieces of meat. Something better than old tree trunk rounds. Maple butcher block countertops were the most solid and sanitary invention. Now it’s evolved into a decorative, as well as functional, piece of home furniture.
Butcher block kitchen countertops that are going to be used for food cutting purposes have certain necessary specifications that purely decorative forms do not. For example, they need to be finished (and periodically, refinished) with certain non toxic oils that will protect the wood, not turn rancid, and keep food tasting fresh. The oil finishes darken with time, developing their own character. To prevent this, use cutting boards! Decorative butcher blocks use regular wood finishes. These won’t darken, but are more susceptible to damage from cutting tools. Finish butcher block countertops is not difficult, but you do want to know what finishes are suitable for what purposes. Don’t go wrong on this one.
The whole idea may sound expensive. Installing thick, work worthy, long lasting wooden counters? How much do butcher block countertops cost? Well, obviously quality will make a difference. Custom butcher block countertops for difficult kitchen spaces have additional costs, as well. Size factors in. Starting at $20 to $50 per square foot, depending on what wood you choose. Remember to add in installation costs. Still, in comparison with granite or corain, you may be saving yourself a considerable bundle.
What’s exciting about these counters is that while you may choose a standard wood for your kitchen work areas, no cut of wood is identical. The particular grain and color of your walnut butcher block countertops will be entirely unique. Same for cherry, for maple, for bamboo. For any cut you decide upon.
In your search, remember that certain woods are purely decorative. Birch, teak, and bamboo butcher clock countertops, for example are not suitable for food preparation due to their softness. Hard maple and oak are the most long lasting for this type of use. Ikea butcher block countertops are becoming a popular sale, as well, and are worth looking into. Always, always ask if your butcher blocks are food safe, if that is what you’d like. Make sure you have details on care and maintenance; suggested schedules for sanding and finishing are of prime importance. After that? Enjoy your beautiful, cutting edge kitchen!
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