Butcher Block Answers
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sparrow Peak Butcher Block
Sparrow Peak Butcher Block countertops are a popular option for homeowners who are looking to renovate or update their kitchen. Butcher Blocks are highly durable, safe for food preparation, and add natural warmth and beauty to any home. Compared to other countertop materials, such as granite, marble, and quartz, butcher block is generally more cost-effective for homeowners. It is however, important to consider all of the factors before purchasing a new kitchen countertop, and decide if butcher block is right for your space. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about Sparrow Peak Butcher Block countertops.
Can the countertops be drilled and cut for use with a sink?
Yes! Our Sparrow Peak and Baltic Butcher Block countertops and island tops are all solid wood butcher blocks that are extremely sturdy and durable at 1.75-inches (44mm) thick. These tops can be modified with standard woodworking tools and can be cut to allow for drop in sinks, undermount sinks and faucets.
Care should be taken when planning for sinks and faucets to ensure the wood surfaces are properly sealed to protect from moisture. The top, bottom, all outside edges and any cut edges should be sealed with multiple coats of sealer to create a strong, durable and long lasting barrier to prevent the wood from being exposed to moisture. We highly recommend consulting with a Lowe’s paint and stain specialist to discuss your specific project and get their recommendations for products that will best meet your needs. As with any wood countertop or other wood item, if untreated and exposed to moisture, the wood can swell and can be become permanently damaged. Our wood tops are sold raw with no sealer or treatment so our customers have the flexibility to determine the finish process and sealer that works best for their situation.
For more tips on doing it all yourself, please check out this video from Lowe’s: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eiy3APcupcY
Are these completely solid?
Yes! All of our countertops are 100% solid wood unlike some products out there that may use low quality particle board or MDF cores.
What sizes do you carry?
For most of our species, we have 25-inch wide countertops that come in 4-ft, 6-ft, 8-ft and 10-ft lengths. We also carry 39-inch x 6-ft countertops that can be used for a kitchen island or other projects where you need a wider countertop. Please keep in mind that our countertops are solid wood so they can be cut or joined together using standard woodworking tools and best practices.
Can I buy a custom size?
Unfortunately we do not offer custom sizes at this time. But, many of our customers do cut the pieces themselves for their specific needs following woodworking best practices or hire contractors to assist them.
Can the countertops be joined together?
Yes, these tops can be joined together using miter or butt joints and following woodworking best practices for joining the pieces with biscuits, pocket screws or miter bolts.
For tips on doing it all yourself, please check out this video from Lowe’s: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eiy3APcupcY
What type of blade should I use to cut the butcher block?
We recommend a good quality, sharp blade that is manufactured for cutting hardwoods or exotic woods. A carbide-tipped, combination blade should work well.
What are my options for sealing the wood?
There are several options in the market including various types of sealing oils and varnishes that could be considered based on your project needs. Each of the options available will have pros and cons to consider such as durability, repairability, application process and drying time so we always recommend consulting with your Lowe’s paint and stain specialist to get recommendation based on your specific project.
Can this countertop be cut down?
Yes! Our counter tops and island tops are all solid wood that are extremely sturdy and durable at 1.75-inches (44mm) thick. These tops can be modified with standard woodworking tools and can be cut down for your unique project needs.
What are some common uses for these butcher block items?
These solid wood countertops can be used for many DIY projects including benchtops, workbenches, desktops, countertops, tabletops, food prep, standing desktops and many other options. Once you receive the top you can use standard wood working tools to cut to size and you can finish it with stains, oils or lacquers to suit your needs. See a Lowe’s paint and stain specialist for finishing tips and be sure to finish the top, bottom and all edges. We’d love to see photos of your finished project!
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