Butcher-Block Benchtops – What Are They And Which Styles Are Available?

Posted on: 30 August 2019

When remodelling your kitchen, you may be thinking that the hard part will be trying to stay within your budget. And while this may be tasking, you should keep in mind that selecting a material for your benchtops could drive you up the wall! Kitchen benchtops come in a vast myriad of materials. From deciding on materials such as granite, tile and hundreds of other options, finding the perfect benchtop that will be durable, attractive and affordable can be stressful.

Fortunately, you can simplify this process by familiarising yourself with top supplies that will be a perfect addition to your kitchen. And one such supply is butcher-block benchtops. Here are a few of the things that you should know about butcher-block benchtops when remodelling your kitchen.

What is the definition of a butcher-block benchtop?

In essence, butcher-block benchtops get their name from the slabs of wood that butchers use to chop meat on. Hence, while those used for residential benchtops have a more refined appearance, they still are made up of solid cuts of timber. The benchtops are quite dense, which makes them durable. Moreover, with the proper care, they can last you of decades. However, you have the option of choosing the slender version of butcher-block benchtops, more so if the structure that holds the benchtops is not strong enough to withstand the weight of the denser versions of these benchtops.

What styles are available?

Other types of benchtops tend to come in different types based on the profile or the materials. For example, stone benchtops come in a vast array of supplies. Butcher-block benchtops, on the other hand, are differentiated by grain. A couple of the different styles available to you are:

  1. The face-grain butcher-block benchtop: For this type of benchtop, the boards of timber are arranged side by side to make up the butcher block. It is one of the most affordable options since the surface comprises the grain's face, which is the wider part of the timber. Face grains are not durable enough to withstand direct chopping on its surface but will be a great inclusion to your kitchen if you are in the habit of using chopping boards.
  2. The edge-grain butcher-block benchtop: The edge refers to the thinner part of a board of lumber rather than the wide face. Hence, to create this butcher-block benchtop, the boards are arranged lengthwise rather than widthwise. The edges form the top surface and this makes this type of benchtop quite sturdy and durable. Not only can this type of butcher-block benchtop withstand the direct exposure to knives but also it is still a pocket-friendly alternative.

Learn more by reaching out to a remodelling contractor near you.

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