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Considering Butcher Block for your kitchen? This tutorial on How to Install a Butcher Block Countertop takes you through the process!
I have talked about my kitchen for months now, probably because it has consumed my life this summer. I laugh at the fact that I thought I would have this done in 3 weeks tops! Let's talk about my FAVORITE part of the kitchen - My Butcher Block Countertop. They make me all warm and fuzzy inside and I just 110% love them. At the end of the post I will give you my take on what it's like having them, but for now... let's see how I installed them! Try to ignore the space I forgot to caulk above the dishwasher 😉 Still working on all those last little touch-ups!
Let's talk supplies. Here is what you will need.
Supplies for Installing Butcher Block Countertops
- Butcher Block Countertop (more tips on there here)
- Circular Saw
- Measuring Tape, pencils, etc
- Waterlox
& brush
- Wood Shims
- Silicone Caulk
- Ryobi Impact Driver
- Jig Saw
- Ryobi Orbital Sander
Full Disclosure: I am NOT a proffessional. I am a DIYer whose not afraid to take some risks. If you are uncomfortable with doing this on your own, please hire someone. I cannot replace or be held responsible any of your pieces because you followed this tutorial. This is a GUIDE and some knowledge of tools is required. If you don't agree with me, don't do it!
MORE disclosures: Please read this post ENTIRELY if you plan on using this as a guide. There is a lot of information in here and I share tips along the way. I'm only human and it is possible I could forget something, feel free to ask questions in the comments below.
How to Install a Butcher Block Countertop
Before we jump straight into the tutorial, I want to talk about my countertop first. I ended up ordering mine from Lumber Liquidators after much much research. They offer several different types of wood and I ended up going with the Builder's Maple butcher block countertop. I have to say I LOVE it! It is exactly the style I was looking for without having to stain it. While I don't plan on cutting food on my countertop they are food safe, which was important to me.
Ok, now we can get to business. When you first open your box one side will not be as pretty as the other and you will see some wood filler. Don't panic, this is the bottom!!!
Measure and Prepare Butcher Block
Pull the countertops out and we are going to measure for the cuts. If possible, put them in place while measuring. You only get one cut and well... this is an expensive piece of lumber ;).
**TIP: it's better to make it too long than too short, just keep that in mind when pushing that saw through your wood!
After you have measured 14 times at least, take it back outside and prepare for your cut. I should probably mention, you will be carrying these back and forth quite a bit, unless you are the world's most confident measure-er and you don't think this step is necessary... for us, totally worth it!
Cutting the Butcher Block
When cutting, I put the bottom of the counter facing up since this side is more likely to splinter. You can also add some masking tape where you will be making your cut to help reduce this.
Create a fence of sorts to MAKE SURE you are going as straight as humanly possible. Go slow and make sure you are cutting on the right side of your line. Support the piece that will fall off with some foam board underneath or have someone hold it in place so when you get to the end it doesn't rip off a chunk of your beautiful counters. Slow and steady wins the race!!
Once you are done, do NOT throw away or blow your sawdust off! SAVE IT! You will need it for when you are putty-ing up your seams!
Once all your cuts are done you are going to sand that baby down! First with an 80 grit, then 150, then finally 220. You want this countertop smooth as a baby's bottom!! When you think you are done, sand it again! : )
**TIP: when cutting where to pieces meet up, make sure you measure at the front, middle and back. There might be a slight angle and you NEED to take this into account when cutting. Adjust your fence if necessary to accommodate for any angles. This needs to fit as tightly as possible
Measure and Cut the Sink Hole
Next comes the sink hole. I wish I could give you detailed instructions here, but each sink is different. If you get a new sink then it comes with a template. If you are reusing an old sink then you will need to make your own. My honest opinion is that it's just better to get a new sink so you can have a template you KNOW will work!
Measure measure measure! I measured, took it off, and re did it to see if I came up with the same lines! This was by FAR the most scary part for me. Cutting a giant hole that cannot be fixed under any circumstances! You need to know what you are doing here!
Once it's all measured out, you will need to drill pilot holes for the jig saw to have a starting point. I drilled one at each of the corners.
Then using a jig saw, cut out your sink hole. This sounds a lot easier than it is. The wood is THICK. The jig saw will not want to glide through it the way it does on plywood. Just be patient. You might also want to get someone to do it who is excellent with jig saws!
Once that is done take it all inside and make sure everything fits together nicely. Make any necessary adjustments. Once you are satisfied with everything take it back outside and it's time to make these counters pretty.
How to Seal Butcher Block Countertops
I used Waterlox to finish and seal my counters. This is a food-safe finish that enhances the natural color of your wood. Remember, I have maple... if I were to have say Walnut, it would give you a very dark finish. The type of wood really matters here!
You can see how just the first coat is already changing the color! Now, with Waterlox you do NOT need to sand between each coat. It is self leveling, and I applied 4 coats to the top of my counters following their instructions and 1 coat on the bottom. make sure you do the inside edge of the sink hole as well! You might need more or less. It will just depend. This process takes a while because you have to let each coat dry for 24 hours. It's hard to be patient, but this is a time when you really need to follow the rules! I know I break them a lot, but I was a stickler for these countertops!
Installing Butcher Block Countertops
Our cabinets are original and were in good condition so I refinished those, but they weren't perfectly level, so we had to level the countertops with some wood shims. Just caulk any gap between the cabinets and countertop. Our cabinets are white so you couldn't see it, but if you have a different color or stain, make sure you buy the right caulk.
Once it's all level, we secured the counter with screws, make sure you pre drill any holes to avoid splitting.
Installing the Sink
Now, we went with a cast iron sink which is 135lbs. It is a beast and I love it! We did however need to make sure it was properly sealed because it doesn't use clips as your stainless steel sinks do. I used a good silicone caulk. This is an oil-based caulk which I'm not a huge fan of, but it is the best when it comes to resisting mold and cracking. When I caulked around the outside of the sink I used white, water-based caulk with easy clean up!
Now that you have your sink in place everything secured and ready to go we can fill in any gaps. Use some wood putty and your sawdust to fill in where two pieces meet up. We decided to not do the mitered 45 degree angle, mainly because I like the look of it where it meets straight on, and also because it's way easier to install without the angle cut! Once the putty is in place, put a coat of your Waterlox on there and you are done!
So what do you think? Do you love a good butcher block countertop as much as I do?
FAQ About Butcher Block Counters
Where did you get your butcher block countertop?
I ordered mine from Lumber Liquidators in the builder's maple. I talk about how to choose the right wood for you in this post
Does your butcher block countertop scratch?
It has received a few scratches, mainly from the other work we are doing in the kitchen with tools and such. I have 3 kids and a not so gentle husband and I haven't seen any scratches as a result of normal wear and tear. The waterlox is pretty good!
Does it stain easily?
No stains yet! Everything I have seen has wiped of easily with a rag.
Do you think water will be a problem?
I don't have a lot of issues with water. We have a top-mounted sink and I just simply wipe up any water the same way I did with my laminate counters. I would be more concerned if my sink was under-mount, but I know several people who have this and don't seem to have too many problems.
Would you do it again?
I've only had them for a few months now, but I would ABSOLUTELY do it again. I love the look of them, they are holding up fantastically. No complaints here!
More questions? leave them in the comments below!
Kristen @ Down Home Inspiration
Beautiful counter and great job all around! Looks great!
Ashley
Thank you Kristen!! : ) xoxox
Rachel Garner
I have a maple butcher block countertop that we are installing in our new home. It is already cut to size, and the wood was left "raw" so we could sand and oil it ourselves. If we use the waterlox, will I be able to cut on it just as I would a cutting board?
Ashley
Hi rachel,
I wouldn't ever suggest cutting on your countertops the way you do a cutting board. No matter what, over time it will wear and begin to look as bad as wooden cutting boards. It is really more of a stylistic choice. The waterlox does protect it from water much better than oil.
Kristen @ Down Home Inspiration
Beautiful counter and great job all around! Looks great!
Ashley
Thank you Kristen!! : ) xoxox
Rachel Garner
I have a maple butcher block countertop that we are installing in our new home. It is already cut to size, and the wood was left "raw" so we could sand and oil it ourselves. If we use the waterlox, will I be able to cut on it just as I would a cutting board?
Ashley
Hi rachel,
I wouldn't ever suggest cutting on your countertops the way you do a cutting board. No matter what, over time it will wear and begin to look as bad as wooden cutting boards. It is really more of a stylistic choice. The waterlox does protect it from water much better than oil.
Megan
These look so pretty! Especially against your pretty white cabinets!
Ashley
Thanks Megan! I am always a sucker for wood tones mixed with white : )
Megan
These look so pretty! Especially against your pretty white cabinets!
Ashley
Thanks Megan! I am always a sucker for wood tones mixed with white : )
Taryn @ Design, Dining + Diapers
These look absolutely amazing!!!! All your handwork paid off. Beautiful job! Can't wait to see the rest of the kitchen 🙂
Ashley
Thanks Taryn! Yes, lots of hard work, but so glad I pushed through : )!
Taryn @ Design, Dining + Diapers
These look absolutely amazing!!!! All your handwork paid off. Beautiful job! Can't wait to see the rest of the kitchen 🙂
Ashley
Thanks Taryn! Yes, lots of hard work, but so glad I pushed through : )!
Vanessa
They look sooooooo amazing Ashley!! You did such an awesome job and these are great tips! 🙂
Ashley
Thank you Vanessa, you are so sweet!!! We are loving them!! xoxox
Vanessa
They look sooooooo amazing Ashley!! You did such an awesome job and these are great tips! 🙂
Ashley
Thank you Vanessa, you are so sweet!!! We are loving them!! xoxox
LUCY
What a great tutorial...I'm pinning for hubby...lol...thank you so much.
Ashley
Thank you Lucy!! : ) xoxox
LUCY
What a great tutorial...I'm pinning for hubby...lol...thank you so much.
Ashley
Thank you Lucy!! : ) xoxox
Meredith @ Wait Til Your Father Gets Home
Girl, this is gorgeous!! I'd die to have butcher block in my kitchen...great job!!
Ashley
Thank you so much Meredith! I was nervous at first, but it's handling my 3 kids beautifully!
Meredith @ Wait Til Your Father Gets Home
Girl, this is gorgeous!! I'd die to have butcher block in my kitchen...great job!!
Ashley
Thank you so much Meredith! I was nervous at first, but it's handling my 3 kids beautifully!
Jennifer
Fabulous! This really caught my eye because I'm wanting butcher block counter tops in my own kitchen. I'd love for you to share this at my weekly link party http://www.thelifeofjenniferdawn.com/2014/09/a-little-bird-told-me-link-party-107.html Hope to see you there!
Ashley
Thanks so much Jennifer! We are loving them!
Jennifer
Fabulous! This really caught my eye because I'm wanting butcher block counter tops in my own kitchen. I'd love for you to share this at my weekly link party http://www.thelifeofjenniferdawn.com/2014/09/a-little-bird-told-me-link-party-107.html Hope to see you there!
Ashley
Thanks so much Jennifer! We are loving them!
Randi - Dukes and Duchesses
Holy cow ... what a HUGE DIY job. They look just incredible!
Ashley
Thanks Randi! It was much bigger than I thought it was going to be!
Randi - Dukes and Duchesses
Holy cow ... what a HUGE DIY job. They look just incredible!
Ashley
Thanks Randi! It was much bigger than I thought it was going to be!
Carissa Rasmussen
soo beautiful! You are so talented!
Ashley
Thank you Carissa : ) You are too sweet!! xoxox
Carissa Rasmussen
soo beautiful! You are so talented!
Ashley
Thank you Carissa : ) You are too sweet!! xoxox
Heather
Love all of these tips Ashley! Your counter and kitchen look amazing! Wish I could come over for a visit and a coffee... and see it all in person!!
Ashley
Thanks Heather! I wish you could just pop over for coffee too! I need some adult conversation ; )
Heather
Love all of these tips Ashley! Your counter and kitchen look amazing! Wish I could come over for a visit and a coffee... and see it all in person!!
Ashley
Thanks Heather! I wish you could just pop over for coffee too! I need some adult conversation ; )
Sarah
I am refinishing my kitchen right now. Just painted all the cabinets white and love it. I ordered maple butch block countertops from Lumber Liquidators (which I keep calling Liquid Lumbernators) a few days ago. This was a great post and very helpful. I am looking forward to my amazing kitchen when it is finished.
Ashley
Haha I totally mix my words up like that ALL the time! It took me a second to get it reading it, totally made sense to me ; )! You are going to love your counters! I was nervous at first but they are great so far!! Thanks for stopping by! : )
Sarah
I am refinishing my kitchen right now. Just painted all the cabinets white and love it. I ordered maple butch block countertops from Lumber Liquidators (which I keep calling Liquid Lumbernators) a few days ago. This was a great post and very helpful. I am looking forward to my amazing kitchen when it is finished.
Ashley
Haha I totally mix my words up like that ALL the time! It took me a second to get it reading it, totally made sense to me ; )! You are going to love your counters! I was nervous at first but they are great so far!! Thanks for stopping by! : )
Ruthann
I see your posts are from September and now that you have made it through the holidays, are they still holding up and wearing well?
Ashley
Hi Ruthann! They have be AWESOME! Way better than I expected. I don't think there is a single dent or scratch in them at all! I even had some red sauce splash on the counters that was behind my utensil holder that had been there for a few days until I move the utensil holder to wipe everything down really well, and it came right off! I thought for sure I would see a little stain! I am very pleased because we are not easy on our stuff with 3 small kids! Hope that helps some! Have a great weekend!
Ruthann
I see your posts are from September and now that you have made it through the holidays, are they still holding up and wearing well?
Ashley
Hi Ruthann! They have be AWESOME! Way better than I expected. I don't think there is a single dent or scratch in them at all! I even had some red sauce splash on the counters that was behind my utensil holder that had been there for a few days until I move the utensil holder to wipe everything down really well, and it came right off! I thought for sure I would see a little stain! I am very pleased because we are not easy on our stuff with 3 small kids! Hope that helps some! Have a great weekend!
Kathleen
Hi Ashley,
Your kitchen looks beautiful! I just ordered Oak countertops from LL for my brand new white kitchen. I can't wait to install them!
I have a couple of questions about the Waterlox. What size did you use? We have approx 40 sq ft of countertop and I was hoping to get away with a 1L can.
Also, where did you apply it? In your kitchen, or was it too smelly for that?
Ashley
I got the 1 gallon can but only ended up using about half of it. I don't remember exactly how many sq ft my counters are, but there isn't much... it was about 2 of the 8 ft pieces that I used and some extra of another. I know the can tells you how much it will cover per coat. I applied about 4 coats to mine and I kinda wish I would have done one more. But apparently I didn't read the instructions because I sanded between the first two coats which you aren't supposed to do with the waterlox, so it probably would have been fine with 4 had I not done that ;). I applied mine in the garage because the smell is VERY strong and my youngest was just a baby at the time. The negative side to this is that I know have a seam that I have yet to fill with wood putty and recoat with the waterlox... so if you have super great ventilation you could totally do it in your house, but keep in mind it's like a week long process because you are supposed to let it dry for 24 hours and with four coats...well you get the idea ; ) Plus with 3 kids it's kinda hard to go that many days without a kitchen! Hope that helps : ) Let me know if you have any other questions!
Kelley
Hello. What waterlox product did you end up using?
Thanks! Kelley
Kathleen
Hi Ashley,
Your kitchen looks beautiful! I just ordered Oak countertops from LL for my brand new white kitchen. I can't wait to install them!
I have a couple of questions about the Waterlox. What size did you use? We have approx 40 sq ft of countertop and I was hoping to get away with a 1L can.
Also, where did you apply it? In your kitchen, or was it too smelly for that?
Ashley
I got the 1 gallon can but only ended up using about half of it. I don't remember exactly how many sq ft my counters are, but there isn't much... it was about 2 of the 8 ft pieces that I used and some extra of another. I know the can tells you how much it will cover per coat. I applied about 4 coats to mine and I kinda wish I would have done one more. But apparently I didn't read the instructions because I sanded between the first two coats which you aren't supposed to do with the waterlox, so it probably would have been fine with 4 had I not done that ;). I applied mine in the garage because the smell is VERY strong and my youngest was just a baby at the time. The negative side to this is that I know have a seam that I have yet to fill with wood putty and recoat with the waterlox... so if you have super great ventilation you could totally do it in your house, but keep in mind it's like a week long process because you are supposed to let it dry for 24 hours and with four coats...well you get the idea ; ) Plus with 3 kids it's kinda hard to go that many days without a kitchen! Hope that helps : ) Let me know if you have any other questions!
Kelley
Hello. What waterlox product did you end up using?
Thanks! Kelley
Brittany O.
Hey Ashley! I am admiring your DIY kitchen and want to do the same thing! My hubby and I are moving into a foreclosure next month and won't have the funds to remodel everything. I love the farmhouse look and was planning on going with the original cabinetry and painting it white as well and changing the icky linoleum countertops out for some beautiful butcher block. A couple questions- how did you remove the old countertops without damaging the cabinets? How did you secure the butcher block countertops to the cabinets? I am brand new to the DIY game, I've lived in rentals forever so haven't been able to do anything fun! I'm nervous about doing these big projects in the kitchen- don't want to mess it up! So any advice you can give me would be great! Thanks so much!!!
Brittany O.
Hey Ashley! I am admiring your DIY kitchen and want to do the same thing! My hubby and I are moving into a foreclosure next month and won't have the funds to remodel everything. I love the farmhouse look and was planning on going with the original cabinetry and painting it white as well and changing the icky linoleum countertops out for some beautiful butcher block. A couple questions- how did you remove the old countertops without damaging the cabinets? How did you secure the butcher block countertops to the cabinets? I am brand new to the DIY game, I've lived in rentals forever so haven't been able to do anything fun! I'm nervous about doing these big projects in the kitchen- don't want to mess it up! So any advice you can give me would be great! Thanks so much!!!
Deedra
When/if we find our forever home have tossed around the idea to having butcher block or cement counter tops. I love the way yours turned out. Truly inspiring if I do say so myself.
Deedra
When/if we find our forever home have tossed around the idea to having butcher block or cement counter tops. I love the way yours turned out. Truly inspiring if I do say so myself.
Meg Lund
I love your butcher block countertops! I have been wanting to replace my counter tops, and I think that these are a really good option. I really appreciate this post on how to install your countertops. I really liked your tip to save the sawdust. I would have never thought that they would help when you're putty-ing up the seams. This is a super good idea, and I'll be sure to use it when I'm installing my countertop.
Meg Lund
I love your butcher block countertops! I have been wanting to replace my counter tops, and I think that these are a really good option. I really appreciate this post on how to install your countertops. I really liked your tip to save the sawdust. I would have never thought that they would help when you're putty-ing up the seams. This is a super good idea, and I'll be sure to use it when I'm installing my countertop.
Katie
Hi, have you found the color of the wood to have darkened since it was installed? - Thanks!
Katie
Hi, have you found the color of the wood to have darkened since it was installed? - Thanks!
Katrina
We just did these in our home, my husband made them. He used the butcher block stain, 3 coats. Do you have any tips on care? Or keeping them looking great? Do you need to condition them anything like that?
Ashley
As far as caring for them, I just try and make sure I keep them as dry as possible and not let water sit on them. I'm not familiar with butcher block stain. I used the waterlox which also seals them, so if you don't have a sealant on them they might be more susceptible to stains and water damage. I don't need to condition mine with the waterlox. Hope that helps some! : )
Sandy
But her block stain? Can you clarify? I have heard they don't stain well (maple). Thanks
Ashley
I used Waterlox to finish our counters. It is a sealant that protects the wood from stains. So far it has help up quite well! : )
Katrina
We just did these in our home, my husband made them. He used the butcher block stain, 3 coats. Do you have any tips on care? Or keeping them looking great? Do you need to condition them anything like that?
Ashley
As far as caring for them, I just try and make sure I keep them as dry as possible and not let water sit on them. I'm not familiar with butcher block stain. I used the waterlox which also seals them, so if you don't have a sealant on them they might be more susceptible to stains and water damage. I don't need to condition mine with the waterlox. Hope that helps some! : )
Sandy
But her block stain? Can you clarify? I have heard they don't stain well (maple). Thanks
Ashley
I used Waterlox to finish our counters. It is a sealant that protects the wood from stains. So far it has help up quite well! : )
Sandy
Beautiful. We have maple butcher block counter (just on our island with stovetop). I have used paraffin+ mineral oil for 15 years. We don't put food on it so I am not concerned about food safety. I want them sealed so no stains and easy to care for. I will look into Waterlox, and I'm considering tung oil..what do you think? I would like to deepen the color slightly with only a satin or low gloss finish. Thoughts. Thanks
Ashley
Hi Sandy, if you aren't too hard on your counters I would stick with the oils. Waterlox does give it sort of a glossy finish. I prefer the matte finish as well, but with kids I needed to block the stains!
Sarah Mc
Waterlox is easier than tung oil since it dries quicker. You will need to get every last drop of the paraffin mixture off before you start, though. Waterlox also comes in several finishes including a rather matte one.
Sandy
Beautiful. We have maple butcher block counter (just on our island with stovetop). I have used paraffin+ mineral oil for 15 years. We don't put food on it so I am not concerned about food safety. I want them sealed so no stains and easy to care for. I will look into Waterlox, and I'm considering tung oil..what do you think? I would like to deepen the color slightly with only a satin or low gloss finish. Thoughts. Thanks
Ashley
Hi Sandy, if you aren't too hard on your counters I would stick with the oils. Waterlox does give it sort of a glossy finish. I prefer the matte finish as well, but with kids I needed to block the stains!
Sarah Mc
Waterlox is easier than tung oil since it dries quicker. You will need to get every last drop of the paraffin mixture off before you start, though. Waterlox also comes in several finishes including a rather matte one.
John
When you tiled the backsplash it looks like you didn't use grout on the bottom tiles. How did you sea them so water doesn't leak behind, clear silicone? They look great!
John
When you tiled the backsplash it looks like you didn't use grout on the bottom tiles. How did you sea them so water doesn't leak behind, clear silicone? They look great!
Bonnie Goodrich-Wilcoxson
Thank you for posting this great tutorial! Questions: what type of circular saw and jigsaw blades did you use and how many teeth?
Bonnie Goodrich-Wilcoxson
Thank you for posting this great tutorial! Questions: what type of circular saw and jigsaw blades did you use and how many teeth?
Rachel Turner
Hi, can you stain the counter to the color of our choice and then use the waterlox to seal them?
Rachel Turner
Hi, can you stain the counter to the color of our choice and then use the waterlox to seal them?
Peggy
A question about your seams. Did you use anything to secure the seams, other than wood putty/sawdust in the gaps? We're on the home stretch of installing our butcher block counters and will have two seams to contend with. Wondering if we should use some sort of adhesive in the seams to make sure they stay tight.
Peggy
A question about your seams. Did you use anything to secure the seams, other than wood putty/sawdust in the gaps? We're on the home stretch of installing our butcher block counters and will have two seams to contend with. Wondering if we should use some sort of adhesive in the seams to make sure they stay tight.
Jeanette Eilers
We bought the black walnut butcher block from Lumber Liquidators - do you think mineral oil will produce a good finish? Our wood counters will not be near the sink - only on cabinets away from the sink. Thank you.
Ashley
It would produce a very pretty look, but it will not protect it from any spills. If you spill something with color it will penetrate the wood, I'm not sure how fast that would happen since I didn't actually test it out. But my suggestion would be to get a water protectant (waterlox or something similar) sealant to be on the safe side. It really just depends how you will be using it. I have 3 kids so no surface in my house is safe ; )
Jeanette Eilers
We bought the black walnut butcher block from Lumber Liquidators - do you think mineral oil will produce a good finish? Our wood counters will not be near the sink - only on cabinets away from the sink. Thank you.
Ashley
It would produce a very pretty look, but it will not protect it from any spills. If you spill something with color it will penetrate the wood, I'm not sure how fast that would happen since I didn't actually test it out. But my suggestion would be to get a water protectant (waterlox or something similar) sealant to be on the safe side. It really just depends how you will be using it. I have 3 kids so no surface in my house is safe ; )
Joe
Hello, I just picked up new counter tops this week and am in the process of getting them cut to length and treating the undersides with Waterlox. Looking ahead in the process one big question has been sticking out for me, and that is; how did you actually secure your tops to the cabinets? I have looked arond online at all sorts of blgs and have not been able to find what other have done to secure the tops down. I am considering installing some MDF or 1x4s flush with the inside edge of the cabinets but I'm not sure if this is a good route to go. If you have any insight or advice, Id be very appreciative.
Thanks,
Joe
Erika
Hey Joe. We are getting ready to install our counters and our new cabinets came with corner braces that have a reinforced hole in them....to pre-drill through and screw into the counters. You may be able to find similar brackets. Good luck! (Or call Cabinets to Go and see if they can sell you some )
Joe
Hello, I just picked up new counter tops this week and am in the process of getting them cut to length and treating the undersides with Waterlox. Looking ahead in the process one big question has been sticking out for me, and that is; how did you actually secure your tops to the cabinets? I have looked arond online at all sorts of blgs and have not been able to find what other have done to secure the tops down. I am considering installing some MDF or 1x4s flush with the inside edge of the cabinets but I'm not sure if this is a good route to go. If you have any insight or advice, Id be very appreciative.
Thanks,
Joe
Erika
Hey Joe. We are getting ready to install our counters and our new cabinets came with corner braces that have a reinforced hole in them....to pre-drill through and screw into the counters. You may be able to find similar brackets. Good luck! (Or call Cabinets to Go and see if they can sell you some )
Chris
Nice tips. I must bookmark it. Thanks for sharing this articles.
Chris
Nice tips. I must bookmark it. Thanks for sharing this articles.
Chris
Thanks Ashley for sharing informative article. I must bookmark it. Keep Posting!
Chris
Thanks Ashley for sharing informative article. I must bookmark it. Keep Posting!
Joni
What blades did you use for the circular and jig saws? I'm trying to plan out my project. Thanks!
Joni
What blades did you use for the circular and jig saws? I'm trying to plan out my project. Thanks!
hardwood flooring
Thankyou so much for sharing such a nice article 🙂
hardwood flooring
Thankyou so much for sharing such a nice article 🙂
Kristen
Hi, I know this is an older post
But I have a question. You said you secured the counter tops with screws. How? From underneath? Thanks and beautiful job! Kristen
Ashley
Yes, usually with cabinets there is already board that go across the top, I screwed from the bottom though those boards into the cabinet : ) Every kitchen is a little different, but definitely from underneath.
Kristen
Hi, I know this is an older post
But I have a question. You said you secured the counter tops with screws. How? From underneath? Thanks and beautiful job! Kristen
Ashley
Yes, usually with cabinets there is already board that go across the top, I screwed from the bottom though those boards into the cabinet : ) Every kitchen is a little different, but definitely from underneath.
Trevor Walstrom
When you say you used your saw dust to fill in your seams, what were the exact steps? Did you do sawdust, then putty? Or putty then sawdust? Did you mix them? I’m securing a few pieces together with a biscuit joiner and I have Timbermate wood putty (red oak). I’m wondering the order you chose to fill those seams. Thanks Ashley!
Trevor Walstrom
When you say you used your saw dust to fill in your seams, what were the exact steps? Did you do sawdust, then putty? Or putty then sawdust? Did you mix them? I’m securing a few pieces together with a biscuit joiner and I have Timbermate wood putty (red oak). I’m wondering the order you chose to fill those seams. Thanks Ashley!
Brenda
So I also bought butcher block countertops (cherry) from Lumber Liquidators and am using Waterlox to seal them. So I will have to straight seams and just want to be clear that you did not join the pieces at the seams? You mounted them separately and then used wood putty in the seam and coated them with waterlox?
Steve
Thanks for the great article - we're confounded at which to apply 1st: the mineral oil/beeswax surface treatment, or the silicone caulking (between the splash and counter, for example)?
If we do the caulk first, the counter will need to be in-place so we wouldn't be able to treat (at all) the back or sides of the butcherblock (does this matter?)...plus of course if the caulk goes anywhere it shouldn't, no oil there either.
If we oil it first, will the caulk even adhere? Is there a special caulk to use? Someone suggested https://www.homedepot.com/p/DAP-10-1-oz-Alex-Fast-Dry-White-Acrylic-Latex-Plus-Silicone-Caulk-18425/100634323 works well, but it's only in white (we'd prefer clear, if it's possible)...
Any advice? THANKS
Brenda
So I also bought butcher block countertops (cherry) from Lumber Liquidators and am using Waterlox to seal them. So I will have to straight seams and just want to be clear that you did not join the pieces at the seams? You mounted them separately and then used wood putty in the seam and coated them with waterlox?
Steve
Thanks for the great article - we're confounded at which to apply 1st: the mineral oil/beeswax surface treatment, or the silicone caulking (between the splash and counter, for example)?
If we do the caulk first, the counter will need to be in-place so we wouldn't be able to treat (at all) the back or sides of the butcherblock (does this matter?)...plus of course if the caulk goes anywhere it shouldn't, no oil there either.
If we oil it first, will the caulk even adhere? Is there a special caulk to use? Someone suggested https://www.homedepot.com/p/DAP-10-1-oz-Alex-Fast-Dry-White-Acrylic-Latex-Plus-Silicone-Caulk-18425/100634323 works well, but it's only in white (we'd prefer clear, if it's possible)...
Any advice? THANKS
Steve
(sorry meant this as a general comment) Thanks for the great article – we’re confounded at which to apply 1st: the mineral oil/beeswax surface treatment, or the silicone caulking (between the splash and counter, for example)?
If we do the caulk first, the counter will need to be in-place so we wouldn’t be able to treat (at all) the back or sides of the butcherblock (does this matter?)…plus of course if the caulk goes anywhere it shouldn’t, no oil there either.
If we oil it first, will the caulk even adhere? Is there a special caulk to use? Someone suggested https://www.homedepot.com/p/DAP-10-1-oz-Alex-Fast-Dry-White-Acrylic-Latex-Plus-Silicone-Caulk-18425/100634323 works well, but it’s only in white (we’d prefer clear, if it’s possible)…
Any advice? THANKS
Steve
(sorry meant this as a general comment) Thanks for the great article – we’re confounded at which to apply 1st: the mineral oil/beeswax surface treatment, or the silicone caulking (between the splash and counter, for example)?
If we do the caulk first, the counter will need to be in-place so we wouldn’t be able to treat (at all) the back or sides of the butcherblock (does this matter?)…plus of course if the caulk goes anywhere it shouldn’t, no oil there either.
If we oil it first, will the caulk even adhere? Is there a special caulk to use? Someone suggested https://www.homedepot.com/p/DAP-10-1-oz-Alex-Fast-Dry-White-Acrylic-Latex-Plus-Silicone-Caulk-18425/100634323 works well, but it’s only in white (we’d prefer clear, if it’s possible)…
Any advice? THANKS
Becky
Beautiful job! We just put a walnut island in from lumber liquidators this weekend. I’ve been using Howard’s butcher block conditioner. Slowly building up a finish. My question with kids, can they write at the island? (Will you see the imprints?)
Also what do you clean them with daily? Thank you!
Becky
Beautiful job! We just put a walnut island in from lumber liquidators this weekend. I’ve been using Howard’s butcher block conditioner. Slowly building up a finish. My question with kids, can they write at the island? (Will you see the imprints?)
Also what do you clean them with daily? Thank you!
Jeorne
Great article. My wife wants butcher block counters and I inherited several board feet of laminated oak boards from my father, which we plan to use.
I have seen many questions asking about the seams and EXACTLY how you dealt with them, but no replies answering these questions. Please explain the process you used with the sawdust/putty fill. I assume you did this after they were installed, then had to sand and finish the seam?
I'm curious if that left an odd-looking strip at the seam?
Jeorne
Great article. My wife wants butcher block counters and I inherited several board feet of laminated oak boards from my father, which we plan to use.
I have seen many questions asking about the seams and EXACTLY how you dealt with them, but no replies answering these questions. Please explain the process you used with the sawdust/putty fill. I assume you did this after they were installed, then had to sand and finish the seam?
I'm curious if that left an odd-looking strip at the seam?
Becky Groppel
This is so beautiful! How much did it cost when it was all said and done?
Becky Groppel
This is so beautiful! How much did it cost when it was all said and done?
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Kim
At the beginning of your tutorial you mentioned that you received your countertops for free. How did you make that possible.
Kim
At the beginning of your tutorial you mentioned that you received your countertops for free. How did you make that possible.
CARI SMITH-POINTER
You said you secured the countertop with screws. Did you screw into the bottom of the surface? What screw size did you use? Can you provide more info to help me visualize how the screws are attaching the counter to the cabinets?
CARI SMITH-POINTER
You said you secured the countertop with screws. Did you screw into the bottom of the surface? What screw size did you use? Can you provide more info to help me visualize how the screws are attaching the counter to the cabinets?
Wild Wood
Wow the butcher block looks awesome and elegant. Great tutorial you have.
Wild Wood
Wow the butcher block looks awesome and elegant. Great tutorial you have.
Daniela
Hi!
Do you know if I can use that oil with Birch?
Thank you in advance!
Daniela
Hi!
Do you know if I can use that oil with Birch?
Thank you in advance!
Tif
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Tif
I can say from myself that in order to be allowed even to do such work, you need to have a lot of certificates and other letters of reference, otherwise you just have nothing to do there. I know this by myself, so I can say for sure that it is necessary to look here and see the details about this great company Job Application Process, which really can help to solve these problems and help to make me get a normal job, they write great letters of reference to order. This is the only way to get a good job wherever you want, I know from my own experience.
Lola Fields
Did you just finish your edges with the waterlox?
Lola Fields
Did you just finish your edges with the waterlox?
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What a wonderful article.
And this table is incredible.
I also love my kitchen, it is my favorite place where I can work and drink coffee.
I work as a writer, and I constantly pay attention to both writing posts and various articles.
I take a lot for myself.
I also want to recommend a service that has lots of essays .
They also have great writers like me with experience
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Arabella
Thanks for sharing this article about how to finish and install the butcher block countertop. A butcher block countertop is a great way to add personality and style to any kitchen, and how to accessorize a kitchen counter with the right appliances and accessories can make it even more user-friendly.
Arabella
Thanks for sharing this article about how to finish and install the butcher block countertop. A butcher block countertop is a great way to add personality and style to any kitchen, and how to accessorize a kitchen counter with the right appliances and accessories can make it even more user-friendly.
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