How do you date an antique butcher block?

How do you date an antique butcher block?

To tell the age of an old butcher block, look on the bottom of the block itself. If the unit was manufactured by the Wood Welded Companies, there will be a date stamp indicating the month and year the block was manufactured. For example, a date stamp of 10/16 indicates the block was built in October of 1916.

What is a butcher block worth?

Butcher block typically runs between $30 and $40 per square foot, depending upon the type of wood you choose.

What are antique butcher blocks made of?

Butcher blocks are the same kind of craftsmanship. Consider their construction; they are all made of long pieces of end grain hard maple, and the tolerances in assembly are exacting.

Why are antique butcher blocks so short?

The boards were made smaller since the slab of wood could now be cut to any desired size. Since they were made smaller, they were also used to eat off of and some people referred to them as trenchers. Trenchers were originally pieces of stale hard bread that were used as substitute plates.

How much does a butcher block table weigh?

Product information

Is quartz or butcher block more expensive?

This sophisticated feeling that butcher block brings to your kitchen is also not as expensive as a high end quartz or marble. Many new kitchens have stark looks with white quartz countertops covering much of the kitchen. Butcher block gives the eyes an organic place to rest.

How do you move a heavy butcher block?

Putting a butcher block upside down on a 4 wheel dolly is the best way to transport it on flat terrain or up a ramp or over a curb. When transporting the butcher block over stairs, however, use a locking belt to tie it tightly to the dolly.

What is the best butcher block wood?

Maple is one of the best and most popular for butcher block counters because it’s hard and has a clear grain. Cherry and red oak offer rich color. Butcher block can also be crafted from bamboo (it works best with end-grain construction) and sustainably farmed exotics such as wenge, zebrawood, and iroko.

Why are butcher blocks so heavy?

There are a few differences between cutting boards and butcher blocks. The biggest differences are the size, weight, thickness, and purpose. Butcher blocks are heavier and thicker because they are used for butchering meat. Cutting boards are typically used for cutting smaller food items such as fruits and vegetables.

Is butcher block sanitary?

Because wood is porous, butcher block countertops can hold onto a lot more germs than other surfaces—though countertops are always dirtier than we’d like to admit. To combat dirt, grime and germs, make sure you clean the counter after every use with mild soap and water or vinegar (psst…

Can you leave butcher block unfinished?

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).

How do I stop my butcher block from cracking?

To avoid future cracks in your butcher block, make sure that it is completely dry after each use, kept a good distance away from heat sources (like stoves or toaster ovens), and never allowed to sit in any puddle of water, large or small. Oiling the block regularly will help prevent cracking.

What woods are toxic for cutting boards?

Avoid woods that are soft, porous, or toxic for cutting boards. Softwoods include balsa, cedar, juniper pine, redwood spruce, and Douglas fir. Porous wood includes mahogany, black walnut, butternut, oak, and ash. Toxic wood includes pine, birch, western red cedar, American mahogany, and rosewoods.

How thick should a butcher block countertop be?

two inches to 12 inches
Wood countertop thickness generally ranges from a three-quarter inch to six inches, and butcher block from two inches to 12 inches.

Can you use Clorox wipes on butcher block?

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

Should you sand butcher block?

Sanding between coats is highly recommended for polyurethanes. This will ensure you a smooth high-quality finish. Normally done with 220 or 320 grit sandpaper or sanding sponge. Be sure to remove all dust created from sanding with a damp cloth before applying additional coats.