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Butcher Blocks were conventionally wooden chopping blocks found at a butcher's store. It was employed for durable chopping back in the day. Today, however, Butcher Blocks have become part of many household kitchens. Kitchens that are small with hardly any space may use butcher's blocks as they serve as extensions to the countertops.
Butcher blocks are of two basic types - end grain type and the edge grain type. The end grain type is made by basically gluing together bits of wood in manner such that the wood fibre will be perpendicular towards the surface. Commercial butcher blocks are at least 4 inches thick. This type is extremely tough and highly durable, having the ability to withstand repeated blows from a meat cleaver. Its thickness assists you to resurface this block without reducing its effective thickness. This sort is principally preferred by professional chefs since it is able to absorb the impact of the knife. By doing this the knives remain sharp and in addition it makes the block more resistant. The other type of butcher's block, i.e., the edge grain type is created by gluing the wooden pieces together inside a manner in which the wood fiber is parallel towards the surface. These butcher's blocks are cheaper since they're relatively easier to manufacture. The disadvantage to this kind would be that the number of times it can be resurfaced depends upon the thickness from the block. Though both types are very durable the advantage type isn't as durable as the end type block.
Typically these blocks are made from tightly grained hardwood. Some examples of these wood are Maple, Teak, Cherry, Walnut, etc. These blocks can be simply shaped using conventional tools. But simply cutting the wood and shaping it is not enough. It is also necessary to be finished properly. There are two finishes you are able to choose from. The very first of these is the mineral oil finish. This is the finish applied to the cutting surfaces. Because this finish conditions the wood it keeps the wood from cracking or warping. But this finish isn't waterproof. Therefore if the top gets wet it might make the grain to rise and what you're left with is an extremely rough feel to the wood. Also each time the countertop is washed the oil can come off. Which means you will need to keep reapplying the mineral oil from time to time. another finish is called the 'Varnique' finish. This finish isn't suitable for cutting surfaces as cutting cuts down on the protection. But as it is waterproof it can make for any wonderful counter material.
So choosing the right wood, design and finished is completely imperative and completely according to your needs.
