BUTCHER BLOCK TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

PROBLEM

DESCRIPTION

CAUSE

TO REPAIR

End Checks

Separation of the joints along the end of top or block

Excessive dryness. Not oiled frequently enough.

Normal wood movement

Dryness and heat buildup during harsh winter.

Melt a 1 to 4 mixture of paraffin and mineral oil and fill all checks. Make sure paraffin seals the check thoroughly.  Continue oiling .Epoxy will also work well.

Splits

Separations of board along full length of top, Open cracking, Often a pronounced splitting at ends.  Usually not on a glue line

Excessive dryness

Proceed as above to seal split.  If condition continues for an extended time period, contact your dealer.

Wind Shakes

Small portion of wood grain lifting up from the background board.

Grain separation, excessive dryness 

Clean and dry top.  Apply small portion of white glue to piece of paper.  Slip paper under the shake and remove, leaving some glue for adhesion.  Place heavy weight on area overnight and let dry.  Remove any excess glue using light sandpaper or fine steel wool.  WORK ONLY WITH GRAIN, NOT AGAINST IT!

Warping

Top cupping or bowing

Imbalance of moisture content between top and

bottom

Apply oil liberally to concave side. If not corrected within 2 weeks, tape plastic (i.e. plastic liners, dry cleaning wrap, etc.) to the convex side and oil the reverse side every day.  Top will adjust to new humidity and correct itself.

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.

Stains

Water spots, food stains, etc.

Allowing food to remain on table top too long, needs paraffin or wax

Use light sandpaper of fine steel wool on stain.  Continue regular maintenance.  Stain will dissipate in wood grain.

Damage 

Nicks, gouges, dents, etc.

External environment

If top is oiled, simply sand and re-oil or wax. If top is lacquered, lightly sand and refinish with lacquer or another compatible finish (consult a local finishing store).

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 piece of 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 re-oil or wax and buff (wipe down) the top with a paper towel. Leave untouched overnight.