Butcher
block is one of the few totally natural kitchen-countertop materials.
Usually made from strips of hard maple, 1 1/2-in. thick butcher-block
counters are glued up to expose wear-resistant edge grain.
Wood must be oiled regularly to prevent
drying. Cleaning is necessary to remove bacteria -- the same as wooden
cutting boards.
PROS: Resilient, easy to work, relatively
durable, can be used as cutting board, surface can be repaired. Scratches
may be removed by sanding and refinishing.
CONS: Will scorch, not as easy to
keep clean as some other materials, can stain if unsealed, susceptible
to moisture damage around sinks.
COST: $30-$85 per square foot uninstalled.
SOURCES:
John Boos & Co.
(217) 347-7701
www.johnboos.com
The Hardwood Lumber Co.
(800) 798-1269
www.hardwood-lumber.com
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