Butcher Block Workbench Top

byKami J. Williams

Butcher Block Workbench Top

When we talk about butcher block workbench top, oftentimes what comes to mind of people, who aren’t too familiar with a work bench, is a workbench. Though a common mistake, one should understand that a workbench top is just the top and not the entire structure, without the stands, the workbench drawers, and so on. As the name implies, a butcher block workbench is a type of industrial furniture specifically used in the kitchen, which means that it is designed to withstand the heat of pots and pans, the constant exposure to moisture, and of course, the cutting and chopping of the knife.

Of course, there are many other kinds of workbenches such as a heavy duty workbench, a shop workbench, a folding workbench, a portable workbench, and even a kid toy workbench to name a few.

A butcher block workbench top is basically built to be a heavy duty and sturdy furniture capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, sharp metallic objects, stains, spills, and of course, moisture. It is mostly used in the kitchen as a stable surface where preparations for cooking can be done securely and conveniently, though one may find other applications for it. Likewise, a butcher block top may also be used as a piece of furniture for dining, considering its resilience to humidity and moisture.

The typical wood used to create a butcher block top is maple since it is a sturdy wood variety though other varieties may be used such as ash, tuff top, oak, and cherry just to name a few. Depending on the person’s preference, the color of the maple used to create the top can vary, from beige to dark

Butcher Block Workbench Top

brown, and in some instances, even black for that modern, sophisticated look. Though maple can withstand an extreme amount of punishment, it needs to be coated with a finish in order to truly protect it from external factors. For butcher block tops that will be used for cutting meat and other food products, food safe oils such as oil and beeswax and mineral oil can be used while a lacquer finish is best for a top that won’t be used for cutting meat and other food products.

There are certainly many ways to get a butcher block workbench top. For people who are handy with tools and possess the necessary skills, they might find building one an enjoyable project. As for others who don’t, there are many tops that can be found for sale in both local furniture stores and online butcher block top stores. Some of the popular companies that specialize in butcher block tops are the Michigan Maple Block Co. and Bally Block Company and the AWP Butcher Block Inc.

Butcher Block Workbench Top