Can you put a hot pan on it?

The material adds instant warmth and pairs perfectly with various styles, from farmhouse todreamy cottagecore.

In Houzz’s 2024 Kitchen Trends Study, 91% of homeowners said they’re upgrading their countertops.

Whitney McGregor Greenville, SC White Kitchen

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; Styling: Lizzie Cox

Here’s what to know.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Butcher Block?

As for the downsides to butcher block kitchen countertops?

Cottage Kitchen with Butcherblock Countertops

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn; styling: Elizabeth Demos

Is Butcher Block Sanitary?

Or, more accurately, it can be.

Next, you sanitize.

With a daily routine like this, butcher block counters can be a perfectly sanitary choice.

Next, you’ll need totreat themwith a food-safe mineral oil or butcher-block conditioner.

The frequency will depend on the age and wear on your counters.

According toButcher Block Co., you could expect to do this monthly.

Finally, since wood is porous, avoid letting liquids puddle on the counters at all costs.

(For this reason, you may want to avoid installing butcher block next to your kitchen sink.)

Can You Put Hot Pans On Butcher Block?

How Much Does Butcher Block Cost?

As with anykitchen renovation, it will depend on your location, size, and customization.

Regardless, butcher block is still one of the most cost-effective countertop choices.

What Are Additional Costs?

In addition to the materials and labor, expect a few other charges.

How Can You Customize Butcher Block?

There are several options to make your butcher block countertops unique.

Keep in mind that some selections cost more than others.

While butcher block can be stained, it is not recommended because stains are typically not food-safe.

The style of wood grain is also something to consider.

Butcher block is made by gluing pieces of hard wood together to create a large slab.

How they are glued creates different wood grain styles and patterns on a countertop.

End grain is made by using the ends of the planks, creating a checkerboard effect.

This throw in is very durable but more expensive.

Edges can be straight, rounded, beveled, or custom.

How Long Does Butcher Block Last?

Your countertop may require occasional sanding and resurfacing to remove scorch marks, dings, and scratches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Butcher block countertops are engineered from cuts of wood and made to be durable.

They are not as durable or tough.

Wood is porous, so left untreated, butcher block countertops will eventually expand and warp.

Sealing also prevents staining and prevents bacteria buildup on the countertop surface.

Oil needs to be reapplied monthly.

If using a sealant like polyurethane, it should be reapplied when there is damage to the surface.

Butcher block can be a more affordable option than granite, which can be more expensive to install.

Pricing depends on factors like upgrades and customization.

pop in of wood, finish, and style of grain can add to the overall cost.

Houzz Research.2024 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study.

The National Kitchen + Bath Association.New NKBA research defines average kitchen sizes across U.S.