###Finishing your Butcher Block Counter Top###
Care needs to be taken when choosing and finishing butcher block cutting surfaces and counter tops. These surfaces are never truly "finished" and wish ongoing treatments throughout the life of the counter.
The definite option and treatment of butcher block counters is needed to impede mold increase and guard against bacteria. This includes choosing a butcher block made from a accomplished grain hardwood such as Rockhard Maple. Oak, ash, hickory, or any other open or soft accomplished grain wood is not suitable for use as a butcher block. These woods are liable to deteriorate with use leaving the pores of the wood open for contamination. In addition, softer woods may splinter causing wood particles to mix in with foods.
The best treatments for butcher block counters are inert oils which can continually be reapplied to the face of the wood. These oils fill in the natural pores in the wood and repel other oils, liquids and food which may contaminate the surface. Only inert oils are safe for use in treating butcher block counters. Vegetable or other cooking oils will ultimately turn rancid and give your counters a spoiled food odor.
The best oils to use for both the preliminary treatment and ongoing counter top maintenance are Walnut Oil, Pure Almond Oil and Mineral Oil. These oils will not become rancid and will properly protect your counter tops. Nature Oil, a proprietary blend of oils designed for safe butcher block care is also available in pint sized bottles. Nature Oil can be used daily. Lastly, Raw Tung Oil (only the pure, raw variety) can be safely used to treat butcher block counter tops. Some coats of oil are needed and may be applied every 24 to 48 hours. Raw Tung Oil dries via oxidation and need only be reapplied monthly.
Initial treatments of oil should be applied Some times, preferably in a warm room using warm oil. It is best to coat untreated or newly sanded wood with oil Some times, wiping in between applications. All oils (with the irregularity of Raw Tung Oil) should be applied every time the face is washed or at the least, weekly. An even coat of oil may be left overnight or until the next time the counter is used for even good absorption. Plainly wipe up any remaining oil before use.
Oil treatment need only be used on butcher block counter tops that will be used as a cutting surface. There are Some varnish and sealant options for counters that are Plainly being used as functional counter top space. Conversion varnish is a extraordinary option for pro spray applications. For brush application on site, protective films such as Behlen Salad Bowl Finish, a Urethane finish stylish by the Fda, are ideal. Salad Bowl finish is a great option for counters with stove tops or sinks. It is highly durable, easy to clean, protects wood from moisture and has a high gloss finish that looks newer longer.
Finishing your Butcher Block Counter Top
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