Wood countertops are stunning, inviting, and can be quite resilient, but their longevity largely depends on the sealants and finishes you choose. Before purchasing butcher block countertops, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the sealing options. These range from natural, penetrating oils to surface-level, water-based polyurethanes, each with their own advantages and drawbacks. Selecting the appropriate one requires a clear understanding of how you intend to use the countertops and which aspects you prioritize the most.
Do you plan to cut directly on your wood countertops? You’ll need a sealer that is food safe, which often means opting for natural products like tung oil, beeswax, or linseed oil. If protecting the wood from water is your main concern, polyurethane might be more suitable. Additionally, whether you prefer a matte or glossy finish could influence your choice.
Consider how much effort you’re willing to invest in refinishing the counters when needed. Natural finishes might require more frequent reapplications but are generally easier to handle. In contrast, topical finishes demand less frequent maintenance but involve more effort. Once you’ve determined your priorities, you can explore the various options available in each category.
Food-safe Wood Countertop Sealers
When considering food-safe options, you primarily have two categories of oils to choose from: wood conditioning and penetrating oils. Waxes are also prominent in this category and can be combined with other options. Mineral oil, a common wood conditioner, requires regular application, especially during the first year. However, its lack of water resistance might make it less ideal for areas near sinks.
Most oils will give you a matte finish. Penetrating oils, such as tung oil, walnut oil, and linseed oil, harden upon exposure to oxygen, offering better water resistance and less frequent reapplication. Beeswax is another natural option that repels water. Carnauba wax and shellac are also food-safe. You can often find waxes mixed together or with some oils to capitalize on their combined benefits.
Wood Finishes for Wet Areas
If you’re installing butcher block near a sink, consider water penetration. Without proper protection, you risk a worn finish or even a moldy countertop. Maintaining a butcher block in pristine condition requires effort, but certain products can help. Unlike oils, topical products like polyurethane form a protective layer on the wood’s surface.
Polyurethane is a popular choice for butcher block countertops and generally provides long-lasting protection. However, it’s not food-safe, so if it starts flaking, prompt action is required. Luckily, there are alternatives. You can enhance water protection with products like spar urethane, commonly used for outdoor projects and available in various finishes, including high-gloss.
Alternatively, products like Waterlox, which combine tung oil and resin, offer a more waterproof and food-safe varnish option. This could be suitable for those seeking more protection than oils alone can provide, while still maintaining food safety. Although not maintenance-free, the product penetrates the wood, ensuring some protection even when the finish is compromised.
Ease of Application and Reapplication
While the application and maintenance processes differ, here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the most popular options. Oils generally offer easy application, though it can be time-consuming. For mineral oil — even when combined with beeswax — apply it daily for a week, weekly for a month, and monthly thereafter.
Applying a tung oil finish involves building up coats until the wood no longer absorbs it, sanding in between. It may take up to 30 days to fully cure. Some people can go years before needing to refinish, but when the counter appears worn or dry, apply a coat or two and wipe away any excess.
For urethane finishes, initially apply two coats, sanding in between. Care is needed to avoid brush marks or bubbles. While you can enjoy many maintenance-free years, refinishing is labor-intensive. You’ll need a chemical stripper and scraper to remove the finish before sanding and reapplying. While the initial finish can be applied in a workshop, maintenance will likely be done in place, so consider this when making your choice.
