Butcher Block Countertop around sink

[Fred in Waco]

I am thinking about putting in Butcher Block countertops in my small kitchen. This would include the area around the sink. I am against sealing the countertop with a poly blend (Durakryl, Good Stuff, etc...).

My question is: What do I do around the sink. I am willing to seal a small portion of the counter top (behind the sink and a couple of inches on each side). Is this even a viable option? Any thoughts? Thanks in advance!

[Neil]

My madrone countertops are sealed with OS Hardwax Oil.

link is to an outfit in Seattle who sells the countertops and the finish. I have been happy with the finish of mine. It is very stain resistant, although oil spots can take a while to disapate. I have no affiliation with the company other than being a satisfied customer.

Neil

[Greg]

The butcher block is not really what you want around a sink. That is particularly true if you are not totally sealing them. You will never get the moisture content balanced and it will split apart at the joints. The side near the sink will always have a greater swing in moisture, swelling and all that.

[Eric Ryder]

At a customers request, I did a Corian type inlay for their r****ng SS sink on their maple top last week.

[Fred in Waco]

Thanks guys for the suggestions. About this Corian type inlay.... do you have any examples of this. I'm obviously new to the countertop world so I'm having difficulty picturing this.