One of the top choices people make regarding their kitchens is to get butcher block counter tops. Butcher block or wooden countertops are smooth and durable. They can be treated to be scratch and stain resistant. The biggest drawback to butcher block is that over time water can discolor or damage the finish.

Maple and oak are common woods used for butcher block counter tops but they can also be made from beech, black locust and cherry walnut, just to name a few. Butcher block counters began making a big appearance in the 1970's and then the popularity waned just a little. Now, butcher block counter tops are one of the top selling countertops in America. The wooden counters have made some improvements over the years but they are still wood. The name does NOT imply that you can take butcher knives to your counter and it will remain flawless. It does mean that you can do some cutting and working on your butcher block counter and still have a stunning surface in your kitchen.

There are many different hues to wood, therefore you can find colors of butcher block from a blonde shade to a very dark shade and everything in between. There is sometimes a slight variation in color but that occurs naturally in wood and many find the more oddities, the more attractive the butcher block counter top.

Unlike many surfaces for countertops, you can install butcher block or wooden countertops yourself. Of course you are always free to hire someone to do it as well but it is a project that is not that difficult compared to many other kitchen projects. For the material alone wooden countertops run from $25-$100 per square foot. Butcher block counter tops can last a long time especially if you do not mind some nicks and scratches that will appear over the years. This is part of the charm of wooden countertops so if perfection is what you are after then you may want to pass on butcher block. You can seal the wood and oil it to protect the wood but it will get nicks and scratches at some point especially if you use it for food preparation instead of a cutting board. Also, butcher block is not recommended if you live in a high humidity area.

The surface sealant that is used for butcher block counter tops is not always food safe so you will want to wash your countertop after treating it. Wood is porous so you should clean up any spills especially from meat products immediately, disinfect and then reseal. Although they do take some maintenance many feel the durability, charm and usefulness of the butcher block counter top is well worth it.

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