Many homeowners find themselves looking for an alternative to the high costs of stone countertops. Butcher block counters are an excellent choice. They aren't as expensive as stone, but still provide you with a beautiful countertop solution. The trick with butcher block counters is knowing how to maintain them, since wood is more susceptible to damage from the daily wear and tear any kitchen countertop is bound to endure.

More Options Than You Might Think One of the prejudices regarding butcher block counters is the idea that you're just getting a slab of wood. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you choose to install these beautiful countertops, your first decision is going to be which type of wood do you want. Butcher block countertops are available in maple, walnut, cherry, and Lyptus. Other materials may be available upon request.

Once you've chosen the wood, you'll need to settle on a proper finish that fits your design plan. Besides simple materials, construction methods also come into play. Butcher block can be made of edge grain or end grain construction, and you'll need to decide whether you want sharp or rounded edges or a more refined, routed look. Whatever your choice, butcher block counters can be built to look as cultured or rough as you desire.

Once You've Made Your Decision After you've chosen a material and style for your butcher block counters, and had them installed, the next step is keeping up on maintenance. Because they are made of wood, butcher block is more susceptible to water damage, foodstuffs contamination, and drying out, than other materials. If you take care with your new countertops, however, and perform the proper maintenance, you'll enjoy your new countertops for years to come. Oil Your Countertops Once a Month or more as needed. The best way to keep your countertops in good shape is to apply a mineral oil to them once a month or more as needed. Apply a liberal coating of the oil and let it sit for about an hour. After that, wipe your countertop clean with a mild detergent. Doing so will significantly extend the life of your new counters.

1 Clean with a Mild Detergent. Never use abrasive cleaners on your new butcher block counters. Instead wipe them down with a mild detergent when necessary.

2 Deodorize with Lemon Juice. Because your countertops are made of wood, they will absorb food odors more readily than other materials. Deodorize your countertops with a coating of lemon juice. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before wiping it dry.

3 Be Careful! Besides basic maintenance, also keep in mind that wood won't hold up to some regular kitchen practices as well as more hardy materials. Never set hot pots or pans on butcher block countertops without a pad or other protective material between the pan and the wood. And be sure to clean up all spills immediately. Even oiled wood will absorb moistures of all kinds. Being diligent about cleaning up spills will go a long way towards preventing stains and other damage to your new counters.

With a little diligence and regular maintenance, butcher block counters can be just as beautiful and eye catching as any countertop material on the market.

Oiling Procedures

Note- It is best to keep a lint free rag lightly soaked in mineral oil in a sandwich baggy and keep it nearby for easy access. Mineral Oil can be found at just about any drug store.

Newbie maintenance: Oil your board Once a week for the next 6 weeks. If you feel the grain start to raise slightly, then lightly sand with 220 grit sandpaper or higher till the surface becomes smooth again and re-apply mineral oil. Allow to dry 15min. Repeat procedure until your blocks do not absorb any more oil. Wipe off access

Heavy dose method: Pour mineral oil onto blocks and lightly spread over entire surface of your blocks with a lint free rag or similar. Allow to soak in (15-20min) then wipe off the access.

Weekly/Usage method: This procedure is used to keep your board fresh and ready for use at all times. After each use or once a week, which ever comes first, clean your board with a sponge and warm soapy water. Dry thoroughly with paper towels. Use your mineral oil soaked rag and give your board a quick wipe on all sides. Wipe off as needed or leave it be and it will dry by itself.