Butcher block island tops are popular for homeowners looking to add warmth and functionality to their kitchens. These wooden surfaces contrast nicely with stone countertops elsewhere in the kitchen while offering a practical workspace for food preparation.
This article will explore how to plan and install a butcher block island top, drawing insights from This Old House master carpenter Norm Abram and wood countertop fabricator Paul Grothouse. In the video above, Abram and Grothouse cover various aspects of butcher block tops, including wood selection, construction methods, and maintenance while working at the Newton Centre House.
Choosing the Right Wood for Your Butcher Block Island Top
Homeowners often go for a solid hardwood for their butcher block island top, offering both visual appeal and durability. Here are several hardwood species well-suited for butcher block island tops:
- Maple: A classic choice known for its durability and light color
- Ash: Offers excellent strength and has been used in baseball bats for years
- Walnut: Provides a rich, dark color for a more dramatic look
- Mahogany: Offers a warm, reddish-brown hue and good durability
Avoid softwoods like pine or poplar, as they are more prone to denting and scratching.
Choosing the Grain Orientation
Butcher block island tops are typically made by joining multiple pieces of wood together to create a solid, durable surface. This construction method allows for large, sturdy countertops that can handle the demands of kitchen work. The way these pieces of wood are arranged, or the “grain” orientation, plays a significant role in the appearance, durability, and functionality of the butcher block. Here’s a closer look at the three main types of grain construction: end grain, edge grain, and face grain.
End-Grain Construction
In end-grain construction, small blocks of wood are arranged vertically so that the ends of the wood grain are exposed on the surface. This method is particularly labor-intensive because it requires cutting the wood into smaller pieces and then assembling them in a checkerboard pattern. The exposed ends of the wood fibers create a highly durable surface that is ideal for heavy chopping.
End-grain surfaces are often used in professional kitchens because they can withstand repeated use without showing significant wear. When you cut on an end-grain surface, the knife slices between the wood fibers rather than across them, which helps to minimize knife marks and prolong the life of both the cutting surface and your knives. This self-healing quality makes end-grain butcher blocks a top choice for those who need a workhorse in the kitchen.
Edge-Grain Construction
Edge-grain butcher blocks are created by placing long strips of wood on their edges and bonding them together to form a solid surface. The narrow edges of the wood pieces are what you see on the surface, resulting in a striped appearance. This construction method is less labor-intensive than end grain, making it a more affordable option while still offering good durability.
Edge-grain butcher blocks are sturdy and can handle regular kitchen tasks, including cutting and food prep. However, because the knife blade cuts along the wood fibers rather than between them, the surface may show more wear over time compared to end-grain. Despite this, edge grain is a popular choice for many homeowners because it strikes a good balance between durability, cost, and appearance.
Face Grain Construction
Face grain construction involves arranging wide, flat boards side by side so that the broadest surface of the wood is exposed. This method showcases the natural beauty of the wood grain, making face grain butcher blocks a visually appealing option. The wide boards create a smooth, continuous surface that highlights the unique patterns and textures of the wood.
While face grain butcher blocks are beautiful and can add a luxurious look to your kitchen, they are less suited for heavy cutting tasks. Cutting on a face grain surface can leave visible knife marks because the blade slices across the wood fibers, making the surface more prone to damage over time. Homeowners often choose face grain butcher blocks when the primary use of the island is for serving, food prep, or as a decorative element rather than a cutting surface.
Installing Your Butcher Block Island Top
Once your butcher block island top is constructed, you’re ready to install it. Here are the key steps to follow:
- Measure and prepare the island base.
- Apply a thin bead of silicone adhesive to the top of the island base.
- Carefully place the butcher block on top of the base.
- Use clamps to secure the top while the adhesive sets.
- Allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Additional support may be necessary for butcher block tops with an overhang. Consider using decorative brackets or corbels to provide both structural support and visual appeal.
Preparing the Island Base
Before installing your butcher block top, it’s important to confirm that your island base is level and rock-solid. Use a bubble level to check for any high or low spots, addressing them with sanding or shims. Give the base a good shake to test for stability, tightening loose fasteners. Verify that the structure is robust enough to support the weight of the butcher block, adding reinforcements if necessary. Don’t forget to seal the top of the base to prevent moisture issues.
Securing the Butcher Block
First things first: choosing the right adhesive. You can’t just grab any old tube off the shelf and call it a day. We’re looking for a high-quality construction adhesive designed explicitly for wood-to-wood bonding. Something like a polyurethane-based adhesive will give you that rock-solid hold we’re after.
You want to apply the adhesive in a continuous bead along the perimeter of your supporting structure, about an inch from the edge. Then, create a zigzag pattern across the middle. This provides full coverage and eliminates any air pockets that could weaken your bond.
Lower the butcher block into place and use bar clamps or C-clamps every 8 to 12 inches along its edges. Start at the center and work your way out, applying even pressure as you go. This distributes the force evenly and prevents warping.
Remember to wipe away any excess adhesive that oozes out with a damp cloth before it sets. Now, it is time to let the adhesive cure. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines–some might say 24 hours, and others might recommend up to 72 hours for full strength.
Additional Support for Overhangs
If your butcher block top extends beyond the edge of the island base, you may need to install brackets or corbels to provide additional support. These not only reinforce the structure but can also add a decorative element to your kitchen design.
For every 12 inches of overhang, you’ll want to install a bracket or corbel. For a sleek, modern look, consider some streamlined metal brackets. They’ll do the heavy lifting without stealing the show. But if you’re after that classic, timeless appeal, wooden corbels are the way to go.
Finishing and Maintaining Your Butcher Block Island Top
The right finish and proper maintenance will keep your butcher block island top looking beautiful for years to come.
Choosing the Right Finish
We recommend a food-safe mineral oil finish for butcher block tops used for food preparation. This non-toxic option won’t go rancid and is safe for contact with food. Apply the oil generously, allowing it to soak into the wood, and wipe off any excess.
Apply a permanent finish to protect non-cutting surfaces against spills and stains. However, avoid using these sealed surfaces for food preparation. This finish will safeguard your butcher block from everyday mishaps but creates a barrier unsuitable for direct contact with food during meal prep.
Applying Mineral Oil Finish
Start by thoroughly cleaning the butcher block surface. Then, use a clean cloth or brush to apply a generous amount of mineral oil. Allow the oil to soak into the wood for several hours or overnight. Wipe off any excess oil with a dry cloth to prevent a sticky residue.
Regular Maintenance
To keep your butcher block island top in pristine condition:
- Clean the surface regularly with mild soap and water
- Dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning
- Reapply mineral oil every few months or as needed
- Sand out minor scratches and reapply oil as necessary
With proper care, your butcher block island top can be refreshed by sanding and re-oiling, restoring it to its original beauty.
Sanding and Re-oiling
When scratches or stains become noticeable, lightly sand the affected area with fine-grit sandpaper. After sanding, clean the surface and reapply the mineral oil. This process will help maintain the butcher block’s appearance and durability.
Considerations for Butcher Block Island Tops
While they offer a warm, natural look, they require more upkeep than stone countertops. Regular oiling and sealing are necessary to protect the wood from moisture damage, which can be a concern in busy kitchens.
Over time, the surface may show signs of wear in the form of knife marks and scratches, although you can often sand these out to restore the wood’s appearance. It’s also worth noting that butcher block isn’t as heat-resistant as some other materials, so you’ll need trivets or hot pads to protect the surface from hot cookware.
Despite these considerations, many homeowners find that the beauty and functionality of butcher blocks outweigh the extra care they require.
Our Conclusion
A butcher block island top is a beautiful and functional addition to any kitchen. Proper selection, installation, and maintenance can provide a durable and attractive workspace. By following the insights shared by Norm and Paul, you can make an informed decision about incorporating this classic element into your kitchen design.
The segment in the above video originally aired as part of TOH season 31, episode 15: Newton Centre | Is the Island Too Big?
