A butcher block countertop can prove to be an excellent investment for many property owners, as it adds a rustic, natural feel to the kitchen. When properly designed and cut, it's a durable, long-term investment that requires a moderate level of maintenance over time. For those looking for a new countertop material, the investment in butcher block can be a good option for several reasons.
Standard Services | Quantity | Low | High | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
What you can expect | |||||
Range per square foot: | $43.01 | $60.70 | |||
Range for this type of project: | $5,161 | $7,284 | |||
Estimate: $6,222 | |||||
Butcher Block Countertop Cost | 128 square feet | $4,067 | $5,641 | ||
Cost of residential-grade, 1.75"-thick maple block countertop with full exterior rails and penetrating oil finish. Certified for food preparation safety by NSF. Rate is inclusive of local delivery, as well as standard excess for perfect installation and occasional repairs. | |||||
Butcher Block Countertop Labor, Basic | 13 hours | $788 | $1,279 | ||
Labor cost, under typical conditions, for complete installation. Countertop with basic edge will be laid out and fabricated, and cutouts made for single sink and faucet. Countertop will be installed and secured. Rate is inclusive of all aspects of the project, such as thorough planning, acquisition of equipment and material, preparation and protection of installation site, and meticulous cleanup. | |||||
Butcher Block Countertop Job Supplies | 128 square feet | $253 | $288 | ||
Requisite supplies for the job, including fabrication consumables, fasteners, sealants, and caulking. | |||||
Butcher Block Countertop Equipment Allowance | 1 job | $52 | $76 | ||
Daily rental of specialty equipment for maximum quality and efficiency. These include pneumatic-finish nailer, 10" miter saw, electric jigsaw, 3" belt sander, and 3-1/4" electric planer. Consumable equipment elements not included. | |||||
Butcher Block Countertop Debris Disposal | 120 square feet | $68 | $78 | ||
Responsible disposal of all project debris, including the cost to load and haul old materials, installation waste, and any other refuse. | |||||
Optional Services | |||||
Option: Remove Existing Countertop | 3 hours | $54 | $342 | ||
Flooring, cabinetry, and appliances in proximity to countertop will be protected. Existing countertop will be detached, broken into portable segments, and removed from premises. |
cost to install a butcher block countertop | |
National Avg. Materials Cost per square foot | $39.34 |
National Avg. Cost (labor and materials) for 120 square foot | $6,459.01 |
National Cost Range (labor and materials) for 120 square foot | $5,357.12 - $7,560.90 |
Compared to materials such as granite and marble, butcher block is significantly less expensive, but the costs do range based on the type of wood used, the thickness and the coverage needed. Due to its popularity with homeowners, it's relatively easy to find this type of countertop. However, the precision of its cut and placement is critical, so it's best to have a skilled professional install it.
Butcher block countertops offer several key benefits beyond affordability. Wood is a renewable natural resource, which makes it an eco-friendly product, and it's easier to install than heavy granite. Because it can be lightweight in comparison to natural stone, it works well for those areas where too much weight placed on the cabinetry is not desirable. It's also very attractive and can add value to a home, especially when compared to products like laminate.
Owners also need to consider the few drawbacks of butcher block. It's not heat-resistant or fully water-resistant, even with protective coatings. It does require annual (or more frequent) treatments to ensure it remains properly sealed and protected from stains and water damage. Refinishing is an option at any time, though, which allows for a fast update and a fresh-looking counter.