For the longest-lasting butcher block countertops, a simple maintenance plan should be in place. Unlike other countertop choices, butcher block can be sanded and refinished to new if there are any issues.
We formulated a set of Gel Stains that we feel compliment our wood species. These are only available from Home Depot Online.
Follow these basic butcher block finish tips on your first installation.
Cut your piece to size first. Measure twice, cut once as they say!
Decide which is the B side – this side will have natural knots and may have minor chips or wood cracks. Naturally, there is a “b” side.
Decide which is the A side – This is the desirable side that you’ll use for your countertop. Use a heavy grit sandpaper until fine and smooth, then use a light grit sandpaper for the final sanding. Wipe the wood with a damp paper towel to remove any excess sawdust.
If you’d like to stain your piece, apply the stain first. Apply the stain per the manufacturer’s recommendations, there are no “special” needs for your Hardwood Reflections Butcher Block – just treat it like you would a regular piece of wood.
Watch as John and Jake go over other finishes in this video:
For kitchen and food safe needs
For an entire article of helpful food safe needs read it here. We don’t recommend using a stain on any pieces that need to be food safe. You will want to use mineral oil or beeswax to finish. This will be a process of 4 coats minimum and it will need ample time to dry. Depending on the humidity levels, it may take 2 to 3 days for it to be completely dry. Mineral oil is our recommendation. It keeps well for maintenance coats and is generally available at any hardware store.
