Butcher Block Glossary of Terms

Butcher Block: a type of wood counter top made specifically for heavy-duty food preparation, especially chopping and cutting.

Edge Grain: a style of butcher block made from full-length rails, with no breaks from left to right. These counter tops are very uniform in appearance.

End Grain: the original style of butcher block, this top is made from end joints, and creates a checkerboard pattern. This style of counter top is easier on knives.

Kitchen Cart: a smaller workspace used for storage and additional counter top space in kitchens.

Kitchen Island: a larger work area, often centered in the kitchen, used for storage and lots of additional workspace.

Maple: a durable, blond hardwood; the standard measure of durability in the butcher block industry.

MDF Board: “medium-density fiber board," or a high-quality and durable fiber board finished to match the hardwood on kitchen carts and islands.

Miter Cut: a 45 degree cut on a counter top that allows two counter tops to be joined in an L-shape. Contractors will need to do this on-site.

Natural Finish: a finish that allows the natural color of the wood to shine through.

Natural Oil Finish: a hydrating oil finish that replenishes the wood. We recommend this finish for carts and islands on which food will be chopping and prepared.

Sink Cut-Out: a cut-out specifically for a sink. Contractors will need to do this on-site.

Varnique Semi-Gloss: a non-toxic polyurethane gel used to seal and protect wood from damage. Although Varnique semi-gloss is non-toxic, it cannot be cut upon directly.

Work Table: a standard, no-frills table made for heavy use in residential or commercial kitchens.

Dimensional Conventions:

Length: Measument from Left to Right

Width: Measument from Front to Back

Height: Measument from Top to Bottom