How To Fix Damaged Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block countertops add a natural appeal to a kitchen and cost less than granite. They are commonly durable, but occasionally, you may find a scratch, a broken piece, or a crack on the surface. The damage often occurs from improper installation, incorrect sealing, or fast drying.
You don't always need to replace the whole countertop. Follow these tips to repair your damaged butcher block countertop.
Prepare to Repair the Countertop
To repair the butcher block counter top, gather:
- plastic gloves
- rag
- tack cloth
- nylon bristle-brush (optional)
- table salt (optional)
- putty knife
- fine-grit sandpaper
- hand sander (optional)
- water-resistant wood glue
- wood putty
- butcher block oil or beeswax
- rotary tool with a blade
- hardwood strips (optional)
Remove items from the counter, and wipe it with a damp cloth, then let it dry. Cleaning will help reveal more damaged areas.
If the countertop has light stains, sprinkle salt on the surface, let it stand overnight. Wipe it with a fresh lemon, then rinse using a damp cloth. For darker stains, apply hydrogen bleach with a cotton swab, then rinse.
Fix Minor Cracks, Cuts, and Scratches
Sand hairline cracks and scratches with fine-grit sandpaper in the direction of the wood grain until the scratch or crack disappears.
Sand one or two inches beyond the damage to make an even surface. A hand sander makes the job go faster. Clean sanding dust with the tack cloth.
Dab some glue along the length of the damaged area, and mix it with some sawdust. Use a putty knife to smooth the mixture, and add more, if needed, to make it even with the surface. Let the area dry, and sand it lightly to clean off the dust.
Another option to fill small cracks or scratches is with wood putty. Roll a small piece of putty in your hands, and press it onto the damaged area. Lightly the surface after it dries, and clean dust. Putty may shrink as it dries, so refill the area until it comes even with the rest of the surface, if needed.
Repair Broken Pieces and Seal
If a whole section has broken, it will need replacing. Remove the broken pieces using a rotary tool, and clean. Glue the replacement blocks in place, and weight them down with a heavy object until thy dry. Check for glue that spills over the edge, and sand it.
Once all repairs have been finished, apply a layer of mineral oil on the surface. Let the first coat dry, and apply another layer, if needed. Add a coat of beeswax or butcher block oil to make it shine and fill missed scratches. For more information, contact a company like MCM Services Inc.
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