Many homeowners find themselves looking for an alternative to the high costs of stone countertops. Butcher block counters are an excellent choice. They aren't as expensive as stone, but still provide you with a beautiful countertop solution. The trick with butcher block counters is knowing how to maintain them, since wood is more susceptible to damage from the daily wear and tear any kitchen countertop is bound to endure.
More Options Than You Might Think
One of the prejudices regarding butcher block counters is the idea that you're just getting a slab of wood. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you choose to install these beautiful countertops, your first decision is going to be which type of wood do you want. Butcher block countertops are available in maple, oak, cherry, ash, cherry, walnut, and even teak woods.
Once you've chosen the wood, you'll need to settle on a proper finish that fits your design plan. Besides simple materials, construction methods also come into play. Butcher block can be made of planks or end grain construction, and you'll need to decide whether you want sharp or rounded edges or a more refined, routed look. Whatever your choice, butcher block counters can be built to look as cultured or rough as you desire.
Once You've Made Your Decision
After you've chosen a material and style for your butcher block counters, and had them installed, the next step is keeping up on maintenance. Because they are made of wood, butcher block is more susceptible to water damage, foodstuffs contamination, and drying out, than other materials. If you take care with your new countertops, however, and perform the proper maintenance, you'll enjoy your new countertops for years to come.
Oil Your Countertops Once a Month. The best way to keep your countertops in good shape is to apply a mineral oil to them once a month. Apply a liberal coating of the oil and let it sit for about an hour. After that, wipe your countertop clean with a mild detergent. Doing so will significantly extend the life of your new counters.
Clean with a Mild Detergent. Never use abrasive cleaners on your new butcher block counters. Instead wipe them down with a mild detergent when necessary.
Deodorize with Lemon Juice. Because your countertops are made of wood, they will absorb food odors more readily than other materials. Deodorize your countertops with a coating of lemon juice. Let it sit for about 15 minutes before wiping it dry.
Be Careful! Besides basic maintenance, also keep in mind that wood won't hold up to some regular kitchen practices as well as more hardy materials. Never set hot pots or pans on butcher block countertops without a pad or other protective material between the pan and the wood. And be sure to clean up all spills immediately. Even oiled wood will absorb moistures of all kinds. Being diligent about cleaning up spills will go a long way towards preventing stains and other damage to your new counters.
With a little diligence and regular maintenance, butcher block counters can be just as beautiful and eye catching as any countertop material on the market. If you're interested in butcher block counters, talk to a retailer or contractor about what it will take to install these beautiful countertop alternatives in your home. 
Matt Goering, formerly a carpenter and house painter, is a freelance writer for the home improvement industry who has published over 600 articles.
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