Wooden Countertops: The Positives and Negatives of Butcher Block
Out with the old and in with the new! If it’s time to give your kitchen a facelift, you’re probably toying with the idea of replacing your countertops. Granite, quartz, marble, laminate – there are so many materials to choose from, but if you’re looking for a natural, classic look that will last for years to come, you may want to consider butcher block countertops.
Butcher block countertops are an effortless way to add warmth to any kitchen design. As with anything else, there are pros and cons to consider when deciding whether or not butcher block countertops are right for you.
The Pros
- Long-Lasting: With a little TLC, butcher block countertops will last for years. To retain the natural beauty of the wood, you’ll need to oil your countertops every six months to keep the wood protected and looking fresh. Before oiling, you’ll want to use a piece of sandpaper to gently remove any scratches, burns or other surface damage, or skip this step altogether for a shabby chic look.
- Customizable: Butcher block countertops can easily be cut to fit around appliances, corners and other potential obstacles. Also, if a section of your countertop is damaged beyond repair, don’t panic, replacing it with a new section to match will be a breeze!
- Timeless: Wood countertops have been around for centuries, and have survived a plethora of design trends. So, it’s safe to say it’s a look that isn’t going to look outdated anytime soon.
The Cons
- Heat and Stain Resistant: Unlike other materials, wood countertops aren’t heat and stain resistant. You’ll want to have heat resistant pads or trivets on hand.
- Scratches and Dents: Depending on your style preferences, this could be a pro or a con. Like we said above if you like the worn, shabby chic look butcher block countertops are perfect for you. But, if you like a sleek look this could be a deal breaker.
- Water Damage: For the most part, your butcher block countertops are treated with several coats of waterproof sealant and oil when you purchase them, but excessive wetness can cause discoloration and even rotting.
For countertops that will withstand the test of time consider butcher block countertops. To see our selection of countertops, visit out showroom or give us a call at 636.391.9099, our experienced staff at Callier & Thompson will be happy to help you bring your vision to life!
