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 Mt Kisco,  NY

Making "Classic" Countertops

BUTCHER BLOCK TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Standard Plank

These tops have a Waterlox finish which is designed to wear and be recoated in one or two years.

Wood has been chosen at random and may contain some sapwood or mineral streaking.

 

PROBLEM

DESCRIPTION

CAUSE

TO REPAIR

 New tops

 

 

   
Checking, splitting,    Slight openings in the edge or end grain, Narrow splits in the top. These tight cracks do not hold filler . These details are considered to be normal for wood countertops. They  move slightly and are a part of the charm of natural wood. New tops need to acclimate. They continue to change with the seasons as well. Wax or epoxy fillers in cracks and splits are a good temporary fix. Normal movement is a characteristic of healthy wood tops.
Shape deflection

 

Curving or warping. Deflection up to 1/4" across a 42" top is acceptable and normal. New tops need to acclimate. They continue to move and change with the seasons as well. no fix required.

Warping

Top is "cupping"upward at edges or "bowing" upward in the center.

Imbalance of moisture or heat content between top and bottom. Look for heat or moisture source that has not been sealed off at installation.

Reinstall top. Seal off dishwashers, microwaves, hvac ducts, etc. with sheet metal and caulking. Redirect any hi velocity hvac or blowers.

 

Warping

 

Top is turning downward at an overhang.

Lack of support at overhang

 

Install overhang support. Deflection of up to 1/4" across a 42" top is acceptable. Let top acclimate.

Existing tops

     

Finish

Finish is flaking at sink opening. Wood underneath looks bare and split.

Damage to the original finish is not being dressed with oil to reseal the openings.

Occasional coats of Waterlox Wood Finish  to reseal and build up the finish at the sink opening.

Finish

Dark or black area around a faucet

The faucet leaks. Blackness comes from constant wetness.

Reseal and possibly repair the faucet.

Finish

Shiny or dull areas in the finish.

Use of very fine or very course abrasives in local areas..

Scour the entire top evenly with a fine Scotchbrite pad. Apply a coat of Waterlox Wood Finish.

Finish

Staining, spotting, water spots, food stains, etc.

Excessive scrubbing or washing over time, without oiling or waxing have removed the finish.

Buy some "Waterlox finish" and apply several coats as directed.

Splitting,  End checking,

Excessive splitting at glue joints. Large open checks at board ends

Possible heat or humidity source. Possible manufacturing defect

Contact us. Send sharp email photos of the problem and the surrounding areas.

Warping

Top cupping or bowing

Imbalance of moisture or heat content between top and bottom. Look for heat source that has not been sealed off at installation.

Lack of support at overhang

Correct source of imbalance.

Top will adjust to new humidity and correct itself. Install corbels or support at overhang.

"Board Creep"

At one or more glue line joints. Boards differ in height or position.

Natural movement in time.  Often mistaken for splitting.

This is a feature of wood tops due to natural movement and expansion. It is not a problem.

Rail Expansion

One rail raised above balance of top

Raised rail expanding at faster rate than other

Continue oiling or waxing as instructed for regular maintenance.  Top will adjust to new humidity and correct itself.

Damage 

Nicks, gouges, dents, etc.

External environment

Such damage may accumulate over time. These may be minimized by using our "finish restorer".

Mineral Streaks

Dark streak in the wood

Natural discoloring of the wood due to mineral deposits

No repair needed – adds to individuality of your Butcher Block!

Residue on counter surface

Gummy residue on the counter top

Areas of flat finish or lack of gloss.

Build up of excess oil

Not removing excess oil after application.

This residue can be removed with mineral spirits or naphtha. Wet a paper towel with mineral spirits, or naphtha. Apply liberally to the entire top. wait for the oils to start dissolving. If necessary scrub lightly with a 3M scotchbrite pad. Wipe the counter top down to absorb any dissolved or excess oil. Finish the process by wiping with a dry absorbent paper towel until the top is dry. Wait one day then apply a thin coat of Waterlox Wood Finish and buff (wipe down) the top with a paper towel. Leave untouched overnight.

IMPORTANT:

If you make any cuts or alterations in your Butcher Block.

Be sure to reseal the exposed edges with polyurethane or lacquer sealer.

Holes or notches that have been installed in the table top must also be refinished. 

If you do not refinish these edges, your top may crack due to dryness.

 

In our own workshops since 1977
The Highest Quality

Limited Lifetime Warranty  for all of our wood tops.

Making "Classic" countertops

Made in America by experienced craftsmen.

Competitive Prices and Fast Delivery Times

Attentive and Professional service

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Information on the ordering process

To get pricing

Please feel free to call us and discuss your project

Brooks Custom

15 Kensico Drive, Mt Kisco, NY 10549

Phone : 800 244 5432

Fax : 914 244 9210

© Copyright 1995 - 2010 by Brooks Custom. All rights are reserved.

 

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