Caring for the Kitchen Island Butcher Block Top

The Kitchen Island is constructed with a solid maple butcher-block top.  This butcher-block top has been manufactured to exacting standards under constant quality control.  The maple wood in this butcher-block top has been kiln dried to a 6% moisture content.  During times of high humidity it will tend to absorb moisture, which could cause it to expand in width.  During times of low humidity the top will tend to lose moisture, which could cause it to contract in width.  If proper humidity levels are maintained in the environment of the butcher-block top, the natural movement of the solid wood should be minimal.

Changes in atmospheric conditions can affect natural wood products.  Extreme changes in humidity may cause warpage or splits to occur.  These are not defects in the product or its manufacturing process and are beyond our control.

Because this top is intended for the preparation of food and as a cutting board the natural wood surface is protected with a combination of melted paraffin and mineral oil. It is advisable to periodically re-oil the butcher-block top with mineral oil to preserve the beauty and durability.

Remember, the beauty and longevity of your butcher-block top is determined by your care and protection.

 

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR BUTCHER BLOCK
Problem Description Cause To Repair
End Checks Separation of the joints along the end of top or block Excessive dryness, Not oiled frequently enough Melt a 1 to 4 ratio mixture of paraffin and mineral oil, and fill all checks. Do not overheat mixture! Make sure paraffin seals the check thoroughly. Continue oiling.
Splits Separations of joints along full length of top Excessive dryness Proceed as above to seal split. If condition continues for an extended time period, contact your dealer.
Wind Shakes Small portion of wood grain lifting up from table top Grain separation, Excessive dryness Clean and dry top. Apply small portion of white glue to piece of paper. Slip paper under the shake and remove, leaving some glue for adhesion. Place heavy weight on area overnight and let dry. Remove any excess glue using light sandpaper or fine steel wool. WORK ONLY WITH THE GRAIN, NOT AGAINST IT!
Warpage Top cupping or bowing Imbalance of moisture content between top and bottom surfaces. Oiling only one surface. Apply oil liberally to concave side. If not corrected within 2 weeks, tape plastic (i.e.. Plastic liners, dry cleaning wrap, etc.) to the convex side and oil the reverse side every day. Top will adjust to new humidity and correct itself.
Rail Expansion One rail raised above balance of top Raised rail expanding at faster rate than other Continue oiling as instructed for regular maintenance. Top will adjust to new humidity and correct itself.
Stains Water spots, Food stains, etc. Allowing food to remain on table top too long, needs paraffin or wax Use light sandpaper or fine steel wool on stain. Continue regular maintenance. Stain will dissipate in wood grain.
Damage Nicks, gouges, dents, etc. External environment If top is oiled, simply sand and re-oil. If top is lacquered, lightly sand and refinish with lacquer or another compatible finish (consult a local finishing store).
Mineral Streaks Dark streaks in the wood Natural discoloring of the wood due to mineral deposits in the tree No repair needed - adds to individuality of your Butcher Block
       
IMPORTANT!! If you make any cuts or alterations in your Butcher Block, be sure to refinish the exposed edges with melted paraffin and oil or lacquer sealer. Holes or notches that have been installed in the table top must also be refinished. If you do not refinish these edges, your top will crack due to dryness.