Why Butcher Block Countertops Are Having a Moment
Butcher block countertops have made a major comeback — and it's easy to see why. They bring warmth, texture, and a handcrafted feel that stone and laminate simply can't replicate. For Savannah, GA homeowners looking to add character to a kitchen renovation, butcher block is one of the most cost-effective ways to do it.
At Sell Co. Liquidation, we carry Acacia and Hevea butcher block countertops at liquidation prices. This guide will help you decide if butcher block is right for your kitchen — and which wood species fits your needs.
Acacia vs. Hevea Butcher Block: What's the Difference?
Acacia Butcher Block
Acacia is a dense, exotic hardwood known for its striking grain patterns and natural color variation — ranging from golden honey tones to deep reddish-brown. It's one of the hardest woods used in butcher block, making it highly durable and resistant to scratches and dents.
- Hardness (Janka): ~1,700 lbf — significantly harder than maple
- Appearance: Bold, dramatic grain with natural color variation
- Best for: High-traffic kitchens, statement countertops, farmhouse and rustic styles
- Maintenance: Requires periodic oiling; responds well to mineral oil or food-safe finishes
Hevea (Rubberwood) Butcher Block
Hevea, also known as rubberwood, is harvested from rubber trees after their latex-producing life ends — making it one of the more sustainable wood choices available. It has a tight, consistent grain and a lighter, more uniform appearance than Acacia.
- Hardness (Janka): ~960 lbf — comparable to black walnut
- Appearance: Light, uniform grain — similar to maple or beech
- Best for: Contemporary and Scandinavian kitchens, budget-conscious buyers, eco-friendly builds
- Maintenance: Easier to sand and refinish; very responsive to oiling
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Acacia | Hevea |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | Very Hard (~1,700 lbf) | Moderate (~960 lbf) |
| Grain Pattern | Bold, varied | Tight, uniform |
| Color | Golden to reddish-brown | Light tan to cream |
| Sustainability | Good | Excellent |
| Price Point | Mid-high | Budget-friendly |
| Best Style Fit | Farmhouse, rustic, traditional | Modern, Scandinavian, contemporary |
Is Butcher Block Right for Your Kitchen?
Pros of Butcher Block Countertops
- Warmth and character: No two slabs are identical — each has its own grain and color story
- Repairability: Scratches and stains can be sanded out and re-oiled — unlike stone or laminate
- Cost: Generally less expensive than granite, quartz, or marble
- DIY-friendly: Easier to cut and install than stone; can be a manageable DIY project
- Food-safe surface: With proper finishing, butcher block is safe for food prep
Cons to Consider
- Moisture sensitivity: Wood expands and contracts with humidity — important in Savannah's climate
- Maintenance required: Needs oiling every 1–3 months, especially in the first year
- Heat sensitivity: Always use trivets; direct heat can scorch or crack the surface
- Not ideal near sinks: Standing water can cause warping — use a waterproof finish near the sink or choose a different material for that section
Butcher Block Care in Savannah's Humid Climate
Savannah's heat and humidity create unique conditions for wood countertops. Here's how to keep your butcher block looking great year-round:
- Oil regularly: Apply food-grade mineral oil monthly for the first 3 months, then quarterly
- Seal near the sink: Use a waterproof polyurethane or tung oil finish in high-moisture zones
- Wipe spills immediately: Don't let water pool on the surface
- Use cutting boards: Even though butcher block is tough, protecting the surface extends its life
- Sand and refinish as needed: Light sanding with 120-grit followed by re-oiling can restore a worn surface to like-new condition
Installation Tips
Butcher block is one of the more DIY-accessible countertop materials, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Allow the wood to acclimate in your home for 48–72 hours before installation
- Use construction adhesive and screws from below — never screw through the top
- Leave a small expansion gap at walls to allow for seasonal movement
- Apply finish before installation for easier coverage, then touch up seams after
Shop Butcher Block Countertops at Sell Co. Liquidation
We carry Acacia and Hevea butcher block countertops at liquidation prices — a fraction of what you'd pay at big-box retailers. Our inventory rotates frequently, so availability varies.
📍 Visit us in Savannah, GA to see current stock in person — or browse our online store for items available to ship nationwide.
📞 Call ahead to confirm current butcher block availability and ask about local delivery options for larger pieces.