How do I update my old butcher block countertops?
The kitchen in my old house was updated about 20+ years ago. Besides half-paneled walls (yuck), they installed butcher block countertops. They are stained, greasy, and dirty. Is there an easier way than sanding and revarnishing them to clean them up? I'm a lazy do-it-yourselfer, but can't afford to hire someone to do it for me. If I do the sanding/varnishing, can I use a circular sander? Best suggestions for a food-grade, heavy duty finish.
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Hi Barbara, yes a circular sander will work just fine I would consider cleaning them thoroughly with TSP first though that will save you sanding time and sand paper. The finish you put on them when you're done is dependent on whether or not you actually plan on using them as a cutting board or not. If you do use them for a cutting board I would use food safe butcher block oil and nothing else. If you don't plan on actually cutting on them however you could use an epoxy, marine or poly finish.
here are soo many tips https://www.pinterest.com/search/pins/?rs=ac&len=2&q=how%20to%20update%20butcher%20block%20countertops&eq=how%20to%20update%20butcheries&etslf=7661&term_meta[]=how%7Cautocomplete%7C0&term_meta[]=to%7Cautocomplete%7C0&term_meta[]=update%7Cautocomplete%7C0&term_meta[]=butcher%7Cautocomplete%7C0&term_meta[]=block%7Cautocomplete%7C0&term_meta[]=countertops%7Cautocomplete%7C0
Could you possibly post a pic or two.
This post explains how to refurbish a butcher block country with an orbit sander.
Hi! A good cleaning will tell you if you need to sand them. They are usually treated with a special oil, not a hard sealer so they are food safe. Good luck and stay safe!
This video shares how to refurbish butcher block.
Very good site with detailed info and even photos to explain:
Restoring a Butcher-Block Countertophttps://www.thisoldhouse.com/kitchens/21017444/restoring-a-butcher-block-countertop
An option to refinishing the counter top yourself, is simply purchase a new countertop in an updated material or pattern. Remove the old one, and replace with new. Fast and little mess to clean up.
Paint countertop?
Here is a few hometalk links for diy countertop painting.
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/paint/furniture/painted-countertops-from-laminate-to-granite-34306684?expand_all_questions=1
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/kitchen-dining/kitchen-dining-furniture/we-painted-our-countertops-the-system-we-used-is-super-durable-no-chipping-and-460970
https://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=paint%20countertop
Additionally - Here is an idea that I find exciting and interesting for your consideration. I hope this helps.
https://www.hometalk.com/tv/decorate/504/transform-your-laminate-countertops-with-epoxy
https://youtu.be/xpbzr-SE8qg
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/bathroom/countertops/simple-epoxy-countertop-44308574
Painted Countertops: From Laminate To Granite
We painted our COUNTERTOPS!! The system we used is super durable, no chipping, and still looks brand new one year later.
Simple Epoxy Countertop
I would sand the butcher block down. Your electric sander will make the job that much easier.
Give them a nice clean and see how they look. A power sander makes quick work of any task and then seal them up. You can see what I did here: https://www.flippingtheflip.com/2020/05/one-fine-saturday-variety-pack.html?m=1
Here's a post that might help - https://www.thisoldhouse.com/kitchens/21017444/restoring-a-butcher-block-countertop
Hi Barbara, there are lots of butcher block ideas here:
https://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=restain%20butcher%20block
They probably need to be sanded and re-oiled!