Most full time chefs prefer using an end grain block, because the surface is able to withstand seemingly endless impacts from the edge of a knife. This is possible because the surface absorbs the knife edge, allowing it to go between the fibers of the wood. Consequently, knife edges remain sharper for far longer and the surface of the block is more resistant to gouging and nicking.

Edge grain boards are made in pretty much the same way, which means that wooden pieces are glued together, but the difference is that the surface fibers are laid out parallel, not perpendicular. The board, as a result, is much easier to make and less costly for a consumer to purchase.

End grain butchers boards can be refinished many, many times. Edge grain blocks, however, have a limited number of refinishing efforts within them. Both boards are glued under extremely high pressures. End grain locks are also generally more durable than edge grain blocks. If the board has been built with what is called a natural oil finish, it will need to be re-oiled from time to time.

Take a look at most any new home that has been constructed recently and it’s a sure bet that there will be some surfaces or countertops in the kitchen that feature butcher’s block. Countertops are pretty popular for this sort of surface, and a traditional block with legs will also generally be seen in higher priced homes. They are less expensive and can last equally as long as other sorts of counter surfaces.

Some things to consider before you buy butchers block furniture or cutting boards, is whether it is end grain or not. Generally, end grain makes the best butcher block and is better for using with heavy knives, because, although it is more expensive, it is far longer lasting.

However, with repeated use, these stumps could break and they were so porous that germs and blood would stick to the surface at all times.

If you are considering purchasing a butcher cutting board for your kitchen, there are two types from which you can choose. An end grain butcher work surface is the kind that is preferred by most professional butchers and chefs.

It consists of choppingboard of wood turned on their end and fixed using glue together to create a cutting board about four inches thick.

This work surface can be planed down if it gets too many gouges and should last a lifetime. An edge grain butcher block is created with longer strips of wood bonded together lengthwise. It is a good consumer model and is much less expensive than the other variety. Either way, by purchasing a butcher cutting board you are investing in the future of your kitchen.

Some things to consider before you buy butchers block furniture or cutting boards, is whether it is end grain or not. Generally, end grain makes the best butcher block and is better for using with heavy knives, because, although it is more expensive, it is far longer lasting.