Are Butcher Block Countertops Good?
Regardless of what homeowners use them for, butcher block countertops is an amazingly beneficial countertop material. With only a little maintenance, butcher block countertops remain beautiful and functional for years to come.
Read about the pros and cons of butcher block countertops
Can You Use Butcher Block for Kitchen Countertops?
Butcher blocks are great for kitchen countertops! Not only do they hold up well under daily kitchen activities, they provide a sense of warmth and sophistication. Furthermore, butcher block countertops blend well with wood cabinets and flooring as well as other countertop materials. Homeowners often will make a dedicated food prep space if they don’t wish to have all butcher block countertops.
Can You Cut on Butcher Block Countertops? (link back to previous blog)
Besides the beauty and durability of butcher block countertops, the ability to use the large surface area for food prep is a huge selling point. From rolling out pie dough to slicing up vegetables, butcher blocks can handle wear and tear for years. Even better, butcher blocks are gentle on knife edges and dropped dishes.
Read more in our blog " Are Butcher Block Countertops Durable?"
Are Butcher Block Countertops Cutting Boards?
Essentially, butcher block countertops are another surface material to use for food prep, including cutting, just on a bigger scale. As mentioned above, homeowners can cut directly on the wooden butcher block countertops instead of using a cutting board. However, homeowners are encouraged to still use a separate cutting board for cutting up meat if they are worried about bacteria.
Can You Put Hot Pans on Butcher Block Countertops?
Besides questions about cutting, another common question homeowners often ask is “Are butcher block countertops heat resistant?” The best practice after removing a pot from the stove is to never set it directly on a countertop. Excessive heat can melt or peel laminate counters and warp stone counters, as well as scorch butcher block countertops. However, if a hot pan does scorch the butcher block, it can be erased with a bit of sanding and re-oiling.
Are Butcher Block Countertops Sanitary?
So much life happens in the kitchen, which is why food safety is vital to families. Even so, with all the cutting and knife marks, homeowners researching butcher blocks often ask “Do butcher block countertops hold bacteria? Are they sanitary?” The truth is, studies have shown that hardwoods actually have antibacterial properties compared to plastic cutting boards. Simply washing with warm water and soap then re-oiling after it’s dry is enough to eliminate any bacteria.
The problem occurs when the butcher block acquires nicks and scratches. This is where bacteria can find a hold and multiply. Thankfully, high-quality butcher block countertops are naturally resistant to nicks and scratches. So depending on the amount of usage, butcher blocks won’t show damage for a while. In addition, regular food-safe oil maintenance can also help prevent cracks, whether visible or microscopic. Which further reduces any potential hiding spots for bacterial growth.
Where to Buy Butcher Block Countertops?
Searching for a countertop that’s beautiful, durable, and functional? Natural hardwood butcher block countertops is the answer. Whether you are already sold on having butcher block countertops in your home or you have more questions, reach out to Heritage Oak! We take great pride in our craftsmanship and emphasis on providing our customers with the highest quality hardwood products.