Wood tops, Butcherblock or chopping block material has many names and several styles. With this section we hope to familiarize you with the basic types of Butcherblock and the specific weaknesses and strengths of each different type of construction
End grain Butcherblock a.k.a. Chopping Block or Checkerboard
End grain is the premium Butcherblock material and our recommended surface for chopping and for someone who wants a premium unique look. End grain is generally 10 times harder than edge grain Butcherblock. We highly recommend an end grain top in true chopping applications. Knives will stay sharper on end grain because instead of crushing against the wood fibers the blade goes between them much like cutting into a firm brush. An added benefit is that end grain also does not show knife marks like edge or flat grain. End grain is the definite material of choice for upscale applications. This style of Butcherblock is significantly harder to manufacture than edge grain, requiring a level of skill and craftsmanship not found with most commercial suppliers. In end grain, the pieces are stood on end to show only the ends of the wood. The pieces are generally random sized, although sizes will vary depending on the species and sizes of wood available at the time of manufacturing and will be random sized unless otherwise specified.
This style of top is very stable and makes a great surface for chopping or heavy use. These tops are available in thicknesses of 2-1/2" up to 20"+. A greater variety of patterns are available in this top, please see the patterns section, or our web site for examples.
End Grain Butcherblock Diagram
Flat Grain a.k.a. the Wide Plank Top
In a flat grain top the wood pieces are premium clear wide plank flatsawn boards. The pieces are generally wider in size. Widths will vary depending on the species and sizes of wood available at the time of manufacturing and will be random sized unless otherwise specified. Table tops, desks tops, bar tops and select countertops are frequently manufactured using this method. These tops are generally preferred for a fine furniture aesthetic surface. These tops are available in a thickness of 1-3/4". Other thicknesses are available but rare, please contact us to discuss further.
Flat Grain Wood Top Diagram
Edge grain Butcherblock
In an edge grain top, the wood pieces are laid out with long strips running along the length. All strips will be continuous with no joints, unless your length is excessive. In such cases we will discuss this on a case by case basis with you. Please see Diagram # 3. The pieces are generally 1-1/2” to 1-3/4” wide, although widths will vary depending on the species and sizes of wood available at the time of manufacturing and will be random sized unless otherwise specified. As a rule we will make the strips as wide as possible. This style of top is very stable and makes a great surface for counters. These tops are available in thicknesses of 1-1/2" up to 8"+. Heavier thicknesses are available, but are unusual.
Diagram #4 Edge Grain
Butcherblock
