Maple Butcher Block Kitchen Counters and Islands Are by Far the Most Popular
Maple happens to be the strongest North American hardwood. In addition, maple boasts a combination of colors that fit nearly any kitchen - cream, tan and light to medium browns. Regardless whether your kitchen's décor is rustic, traditional, modern or contemporary, it's likely that a maple butcher's block countertop will make it look even better.
These Maple Countertops Are Made by John Boos, the Market Leader
Boos has been making butcher blocks since the late 1800s. The company first catered to blacksmiths in need of sturdy surfaces on which to do heavy pounding. Once butcher shops realized these blocks were perfectly suited to their needs as well, demand spiked. Decades later, home chefs discovered the versatility and resilience of butcher block and a new market for wood kitchen counters developed.
Choosing Maple Butcher Block for Your Kitchen Counters or Island Is Only the First Step
Next you must decide on a grain style. Options include edge, end and blended-grain styles. Edge-grain maple is popular since it showcases maple’s fairly consistent coloration with a minimum number of seams. End-grain maple counters, which feature short maple strips stood on end and arranged in a checkerboard pattern, are the toughest, since the millions of wood fibers that comprise the cutting surface are better able to absorb sharp blades and bounce back. Blended maple countertops feature shorter strips of maple, except in their outermost rails, creating a more muted and less linear look.
View all standard-size countertops
