custom butcher block countertops

General Recommendations

• It is not uncommon for your top to have raised grain once you receive it. The top will feel prickly to the touch. Light sanding by hand with a 220-grit sandpaper with the grain is recommended. This is not always necessary.

•Avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface of your tops as this will damage the wood and cause unsightly discoloring.

•Avoid direct sunlight as this can lead to your tops drying out in the affected area. An oiled top will require more frequent care.

•Always use a silicone caulk when installing sinks, faucets, miters, or butted connections to prevent penetration of fluids into the wood.

•All overhangs of 4” or more should be supported. Every 2 to 3 feet of countertop should have support.

Oil Coated Countertops

  We recommend applying mineral oil to seal and protect your tops before use. You will need to oil your tops three times per week for the first two to three weeks. You will need to regularly apply mineral oil to your tops thereafter.

  Your tops are sensitive to changes in heat and humidity, especially in the spring and fall of the year. Your tops are designed to move with these changes. As conditions in each home are different, you will need to recoat your tops at least once every 4 to 6 weeks. In some cases, more often. Do not allow your tops to dry out. This can lead to twisting, warping, open checks and potential failure at the glue joints.

  To clean, we recommend using a mild dishwashing detergent and light amounts of water. Immediately wipe away the excess water to prevent penetration into the wood.

  Do not leave food products or liquids laying on the tops for an extended period of time. In cases where stains or water rings occur, a light sanding with a 120-grit sand paper followed by a 220-grit sand paper may be required to remove the stain. Be careful to sand with the grain of the wood and sand an area larger than the stain so as to blend and smooth out the affected area. Once the affected area is repaired, recoat with mineral oil.

Unfinished Countertops

  Unfinished countertops have been shipped with no coatings. They are bare wood. Countertops should be sealed immediately after being removed from the packaging. All edges, top and bottom should be sealed. Failure to seal all the surfaces can lead to twisting, warping, open checks and potential glue joint failures.