Your kitchen is more than just a space for cooking; it’s where memories are made and conversations unfold. If you want to give this area of your home a makeover, a butcher block countertop is a popular choice for those seeking a warm, timeless aesthetic.
The average cost to install butcher block countertops is $3,750.
Homeowners should expect to pay between $50 and $150 per square foot, mostly depending on the wood type and grain.
For a better estimate of the expenses associated with installing butcher block countertops, here are the factors that affect the overall cost and some of the additional expenses you might encounter.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Butcher Block Countertop Installation
Wood Type
The type of wood you choose for your butcher block countertops is a major factor in determining the overall cost of your installation.
With a myriad of wood options available, it’s important to understand how the wood selection affects both aesthetics and your budget.
Red Oak
Red oak is a cost-effective choice for those on a budget, with prices ranging from $15 to $50 per square foot. This type is available in most wood supply stores and is popular due to its affordability.
It does not match the durability of some hardwoods, like walnuts, and is not the top choice for heavy cutting tasks.
However, red oak offers the advantage of being refinished multiple times, which allows you to breathe new life into your countertops over time.
Red oak adds a classic, warm aesthetic to your kitchen, and the shade depth varies based on the chosen finish. This gives you the flexibility to tailor the appearance to your desired level of richness.
Birch
Birch is a budget-friendly option for butcher block countertops, ranging from $25 to $75 per square foot. This type of wood is known for its ease of workability.
It has a light color and consistent grain which brings brightness to kitchens. For those aiming for a modern Scandinavian aesthetic, birch is an excellent choice.
Going for plain birch is an economical solution, but if you go for finished wood which might cost more to install, it lasts longer.
Acacia
Acacia butcher block countertops are priced between $30 and $100 per square foot and are durable, water-resistant options for kitchen surfaces. Acacia wood is known for its sturdiness and resistance to warping, mold, mildew, and bacteria.
The durability and hygiene benefits make acacia a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting butcher block countertop.
Beech
Beech butcher block countertops are priced between $40 and $65 per square foot. This type of wood is known for its high abrasion resistance, which makes it an excellent choice for those who use their countertops as cutting boards.
The less porous nature of beech wood reduces the likelihood of staining and minimizes the growth of bacteria. This characteristic makes this type of wood a great choice for those seeking a hygienic and low-maintenance countertop solution.
Customization options such as unique edges can increase the installation cost to around $100 per square foot.
Maple
Maple is a durable type of wood and is priced between $40 and $80 per square foot. It’s a popular pick for butcher block countertops due to its light color and tight, clear grain.
It can resist water damage, stains, and scratches which makes it an ideal choice for those using the countertop as a cutting board. Customization options, such as intricate edges, can increase the cost to approximately $225 per square foot.
Bamboo
Although bamboo is not exactly wood, it’s an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners who are seeking sustainable and budget-friendly options for their butcher block countertops.
It has natural antibacterial properties which makes it an attractive choice for those prioritizing hygiene in their kitchens.
A bamboo butcher block countertop is durable and is typically priced between $50 and $125 per square foot.
Cherry
American cherry is known for its warm and rich color and is a durable and popular choice for butcher block countertops.
The cost of cherry butcher block countertops ranges from $50 to $275 per square foot, with specialty designs on the higher end of that range.
Cherry wood has a unique rich, reddish hue which adds a touch of warmth and character to kitchens. It’s softer than other types of wood and is not recommended for use as a cutting board.
For those seeking a unique and personalized touch, specialty orders and custom finishes are available, but they come at a premium and can raise the price to $275 per square foot.
Walnut
For homeowners seeking a darker aesthetic in their kitchen, walnut is a popular choice for butcher block countertops. Walnut butcher block countertops come at a cost ranging from $75 to $300 per square foot.
It’s often used in high-end kitchen designs and is sought after for custom finishes. It’s also a soft type of wood and is less suitable for use as a cutting board.
Teak
Teak is a fancy choice for butcher block countertops and has a higher price range of $100 to $200 per square foot. This type of wood is hard and challenging to work with, which is why it has a relatively high price.
It’s known for its remarkable durability which makes for a countertop that can withstand the test of time.
While the price tag for teak may be higher due to its hardness and difficulty in handling, it’s a great choice for those who value longevity and seek a unique and luxurious look in the kitchen.
Wenge
Wenge is priced between $175 and $300 per square foot and is a unique and luxurious option for butcher block countertops.
Characterized by its rich, chocolatey color and strong, straight grain, this type of wood stands out in terms of both aesthetics and durability.
Zebrawood
Zebrawood has a striking appearance and is typically priced between $200 and $300 per square foot. Its unique striping adds a touch of exotic elegance to kitchen spaces.
Similar to teak, it’s very hard which ensures a long-lasting countertop surface, but this also makes it difficult to work with during installation.
Countertop Size
Typically, countertops are priced between $50 and $150 per square foot. Newer kitchen designs often feature countertops ranging from 50 to 60 square feet, while older kitchens usually have 30 to 40 square feet of counter space.
Homeowners with larger kitchens or those opting for expensive hardwood counters should anticipate costs exceeding $10,000. Custom work and intricate designs can further increase the expenses, with prices ranging from $200 to $400 per square foot.
This means that the total cost for countertops with these features can be more than $15,000.
Grain Type
When selecting butcher block countertops, the grain type is another factor that affects both the aesthetics and the cost of the installation.
Grain designs range from more decorative patterns to subtler grains that seamlessly blend into the features of your kitchen which allows you to tailor your countertops to match your specific aesthetic preferences for their kitchen.
Face Grain
Face grain countertops are constructed using the top part of the wood as the countertop, showcasing the widest and broadest side of the material. Its cost typically ranges from $30 to $200 per square foot.
Edge Grain
Edge grain countertops are characterized by long boards glued together, looking like thin strips of wood affixed together, which creates a clean and streamlined appearance. This style uses the edges of the wood, which is generally the most durable part.
It’s often considered the most popular and common and is known for its durability and versatility. This design is one of the least expensive options, with costs ranging from $50 to $275 per square foot.
Blended Grain
Blended grain countertops are made from a mix of end, edge, and face grain. This innovative style combines interior and exterior rails, resulting in a countertop with color variations between light and dark wood.
The inclusion of rails of varying lengths adds a patchwork-like pattern, reducing waste during the manufacturing process, and ultimately providing cost savings for homeowners.
Blended grain countertops are an economical choice, with costs ranging from $50 to $325 per square foot.
End Grain
In this style, the end grain is glued together in squares along the grain to create a checkerboard pattern with two contrasting wood colors. The cost of end grain butcher block countertops typically ranges from $75 to $350 per square foot.
While this style may not be as durable as other grain options, its unique look makes it a popular choice among homeowners who appreciate an eye-catching countertop design.
Raw or Finished
Raw or unfinished butcher block comes at a lower cost, but it lacks edge detail which can be added for an additional fee of $30 to $50. To prevent staining or warping, it must be treated with oil, wax, or sealant.
On the other hand, finished butcher block surfaces come pre-sealed, which means there’s no need for additional treatments. Finished blocks often feature a live or custom edge.
While raw butcher block is a budget-friendly option, finished surfaces provide convenience and a polished appearance.
The decision between raw and finished depends on budget constraints, desired aesthetics, and the preference for a sealed or untreated countertop surface.
Labor
Labor costs typically range from $60 to $100 per square foot, and it usually includes various aspects of the project such as planning, preparation, equipment, materials, installation, and cleanup.
However, it’s best to clarify with your professional if any of these services are billed separately.
It’s important to note that labor costs may increase for the installation of an unfinished butcher block if the contractor has to complete the finishing touches.
Materials and Equipment
The costs for materials and equipment for butcher block countertop installation typically range from $100 to $250. These can be materials such as sealants, glue, fasteners, caulking, and cleaning supplies.
Equipment used are belt sanders for smoothing surfaces, pneumatic nailers for efficient fastening, miter saws for precise cuts, and electric planers for shaping and finishing.
While many professional countertop installers include the price of equipment in their overall estimate, it’s best to verify this to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected additional fees.
Additional Costs That May Be Incurred
Removal of the Existing Countertop
When replacing an existing countertop, the old one must be removed before the installation of the new butcher block.
Removal costs can range from $50 to $300 for each section of the old countertop, depending on the size and material, and there usually are additional fees for disposal.
Custom Cutouts
In cases where you plan to install a sink, faucet, outlet, or other appliances into your butcher block countertop, custom cutouts may be required. Contractors will need to make precise cuts to accommodate these installations.
Generally, homeowners spend between $100 and $200 for each custom cutout, depending on the complexity and size of the required modifications.
Waterproofing
Due to the porous nature of wood, waterproofing is an important step in maintaining your butcher block countertop to prevent staining or warping. The additional cost for waterproofing typically ranges from $5 to $35 per application.
Homeowners can often do this job on their own by resealing their countertops with oil every month or at least twice a year.
For wooden countertops without an epoxy sealant, you will have to waterproof them once or twice every year, depending on their condition.
Butcher Block Backsplash
A backsplash protects the wall behind the sink and counters from water damage. Installing a backsplash typically costs between $100 and $500 and is often included in the overall countertop bill provided by your installer.
Costs may vary based on the type and length.
There are a variety of materials for backsplash including ceramic or porcelain tile, natural stone, metal, tin, and more, allowing homeowners to tailor their kitchen design to their preferences.
Plumbing and Electrical Lines
Installing a butcher block countertop in a new kitchen that needs new plumbing and electrical lines will cost more than the materials and standard labor.
The cost for new plumbing can range from $200 to $500, while electrical wiring expenses may vary between $500 and $2,000.
Simple electrical tasks, like installing a few outlets, may fall on the lower end of the range, while a more intricate setup that involves additional outlets, specialized lighting, or other electrical components could lead to higher costs.
If a new sink, particularly one with a disposal unit, has to be installed, professionals must be hired to ensure compliance with local building codes and proper installation. Doing so will incur an additional expense ranging from $200 to $600.
How much does DIY butcher block countertop installation cost?
For homeowners with a flair for DIY projects, installing a butcher block countertop can be a rewarding project that can save you on labor costs.
A basic DIY butcher block countertop project typically ranges from $100 to $500.
While professionals can complete the task in a day, DIYers should allocate at least a weekend for the project.
Doing this yourself can be budget-friendly, but keep in mind that due to the weight and size of the countertop, there are some risks of injury.
Measurements and cutouts must also be precise. You don’t want to start all over again and replace the whole countertop.
You must also be equipped with the necessary tools and supplies, including an electric saw, router, stain, and oil, and you must invest more time in the project.
If you want to prioritize a swift completion, hiring a kitchen countertop expert may be a more practical choice. Also, tasks requiring plumbing or electrical work should be left to professionals to avoid complications.
Cost-Saving Tips
Here are some tips to save some money on your new butcher block countertops:
- Get multiple quotes: Get multiple quotes from professionals around the area to gauge the local market and find a price that works within your budget.
- Do some of the work yourself: Consider tackling some of the basic tasks, such as removing old countertops, as a DIY project to cut down on labor costs and fees for hauling them away.
Just be very careful and make sure to avoid any damage to your cabinets.
- Opt for a budget-friendly wood: Go for affordable options like mid-grade oak, birch, beech, or maple, and steer clear of high-end and exotic varieties.
- Go for standard edges: Choose standard square countertop edges to minimize labor-intensive detailing.
- Take charge of maintenance tasks: Do the maintenance yourself, such as sanding and oiling, to reduce ongoing expenses and preserve the countertop’s appeal.
- Explore and shop around: Explore various vendors for plumbing fixtures, faucets, and sinks to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Although you can purchase these materials from your contractor, you may save some money by comparing their prices and going for the most affordable option.
