QA

Quick Answer: How To Refinish Butcher Block Counters

Can you refinish a butcher block countertop?

If you have an old, stained, or slightly damaged butcher block kitchen countertop, you can refinish it to make it like new again. The only tools required are sandpaper and mineral oil (a palm sander is optional).

Do you have to sand butcher block before staining?

Butcher block is a popular type of wooden kitchen counter. Sand the wood before staining, then select a wood stain and apply at least 2 coats. Then finish the stain with a coat of tung oil or other food-safe sealant.

Is it hard to finish Butcher block countertops?

Most butcher block countertops are purchased unfinished. This means that while you can choose the finished color for your countertops, it also requires some work. If you are installing butcher block countertops, prep and stain the butcher block before installation.

How often should you refinish Butcher block countertops?

Evenly rub the oil into the wood and wipe off any excess. If the wood quickly absorbs all the oil, add another coat. Remember that proper care of butcher block entails oiling the entire surface every six months or so, at minimum.

Should you sand butcher block?

Use a coarse, 60-grit sandpaper or sanding sponge to abrade the discolored wood, but don’t try to get rid of it entirely: Sanding too much in one spot will create a dip. It’s okay to sand across the grain initially, but be sure your final strokes follow the grain.

Can you put polyurethane on butcher block?

Follow these steps to easily waterproof your butcher block countertops with Polyurethane: Sand the counters until they’re completely clean. Apply a thick coat of Polyurethane, a liquid coating that dries into a plastic. film, on top of the stain.

Can you seal butcher block with polyurethane?

Polyurethane for butcher block countertops. Polyurethane is a liquid coating that dries into a plastic film and is excellent for sealing the countertop, but then there’s a layer of plastic between you and your pretty new wood.

How do you make butcher block waterproof?

To seal butcher block with mineral oil, you simply apply the mineral oil generously, let it soak in, and wipe off the excess. You need to do it fairly regularly at first but then only about once a month after you’ve gotten through several applications.

Can you use an orbital sander on butcher block?

The only power tool you need for this project is an orbital sander. You can get away without it, if you want to sand your butcher block by hand. It’s food-safe and waterproof, so it’s the perfect sealer for butcher block.

Can you put epoxy on butcher block countertops?

You can create your own butcher block countertop easily using epoxy. In this tutorial, you will learn how to build a butcher block countertop, as well as add metallic epoxy to add one of a kind color to the surface. This example butcher block countertop took two days to complete.

Can I use Clorox wipes on butcher block?

To disinfect your Traditions butcher block after cleaning use Lysol® or Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes. These wipes are available at Lowe’s, and report to eliminate 99.9% of viruses and bacteria when used as directed.

Can you put hot pans on butcher block?

Placing hot pots and pans directly on the butcher block surface is one of the most common mistakes homeowners make. It is also one of the most problematic. The hot items can burn and even crack the wood, leaving permanent damage, in most cases.

What is the best oil to use on a butcher block?

Food-safe mineral oil is recommended for regular upkeep and helps keep the surface stain-repellant and looking its best. However, repeated applications won’t build the surface or help repair minor wear like other products. Mineral oil also provides the most matte sheen of all our suggestions.

How do you remove wood stain from butcher block?

Instructions Make the solution: Mix 1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide in a cup of warm water. Apply the solution: Dab the solution onto the stain with cotton ball or cloth. Make sure to completely cover the stain. Wipe with a clean, damp cloth: Wipe the butcher block down with a clean, damp cloth before using.

Can I use gel stain on butcher block?

Customize With Your Favorite Stain Color Hardwood Reflections Gel Stain is designed specifically for butcher block or other interior wood products that require a very high-end finish for an area of heavy use.

How many coats of polyurethane should you put on butcher block?

Use three or more coats of Polyurethane on a butcher block, especially if you’re applying an oil-based finish.

Should you varnish butcher block countertops?

Safe for contact with food Photo 1. Any finish is safe to use on a butcher-block table or countertop that will not be used as a cutting surface. If the surface won’t be cut on, the answer is simple: Any film-forming finish you would normally choose for durability and appearance will be just fine (Photo 1).

What do you seal wood countertops with?

You can seal your countertops with a butcher block oil like you do for cutting boards. But that requires frequent re-application to maintain the water-resistant seal. For our bathroom vanity, we used the Waterlox Original formula and it still looked amazing when we sold it after 3 years of constant use.

Which polyurethane is best for butcher block?

Best Polyurethane Finish: MINWAX Fast-Drying Clear Polyurethane. This wipe-on polyurethane by Minwax enhances the appearance of and offers a prolonged lifespan to your wooden butcher block.

Is polyurethane good for countertops?

Polyurethane is a durable, resilient varnish that seals and coats wood with a cover that resembles plastic. It is excellent for use as a finish on cabinets and countertops, especially since it is not affected by acidic foods, beverages and cleaning substances.