Countertops

Construction Styles

We make tops using three construction styles:

• Edge-Grain |
• Plank Style |
• End-Grain

Edge-Grain

Over the past 40 years or so this style has come to be known as “butcher block.” The term “butcher block” originated from the massive, 15 to 24 inch thick end grain islands that were used in butcher shops across the country until the 1960’s.

Today, edge-grain counter tops are used when a more informal style is wanted or when the user intends to use the top for food preparation.

Plank style

Most lumber is “face sawn,” meaning that it is sawn parallel to the growth rings. This method exposes the face of the wood and shows the most grain detail. We use “face sawn” lumber to produce plank style countertops.

Cutting the wood Plank style creates a more formal look when using wide pieces of lumber.

Homecrest - 1-1/2" Black Walnut, Plank Style

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End Grain

We make two types of End-Grain tops; (a) checkerboard using two different species, and (b) single species tops done in a “running course” pattern. In other words, all checkerboard tops are End-Grain but not all End-Grain tops are checkerboard.

Functionally, End-Grain tops provide a superior cutting surface because they do not show ware nearly as much as other construction styles. They are also preferred by professional and serious cooks due to the way a knife “bites” an end-grain top.

People are always asking how we make the End-Grain tops. Setting aside the “small children gluing each block together” story, if you visit our plant (which we encourage) we will show you how it is done.

Kitchen Encounters - 1-3/4" White Oak Plank with an End -Grain Inset

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