Installation Guide

5 West Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 • Ph: [phone] • Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]
www.swanerhardwood.com
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BUTCHER BLOCK
KITCHEN COUNTERTOP
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
RECEIVING YOUR BUTCHER BLOCK TOP
It is very important to open and inspect the product when it is delivered. DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP.
• If shipping damage has occurred, it must be noted on the bill of lading at the time of delivery.
• If concealed damage is discovered after the delivery, it must be reported to the freight company within
14 days of delivery. However, compensation for concealed damage claims is at the sole discretion of
the carrier, and may not cover the cost of repair or replacement.
• If damage is not noted at the time of delivery or within 14 days of delivery in the case of concealed
damage, the product is assumed to have been received in good condition and becomes the sole
property of the receiving party.
ACCLIMATING YOUR BUTCHER BLOCK TOP
Your butcher block should be placed in the room where it will be installed for a minimum of 72 hours prior to
installation. The heat or air conditioning (whichever applies) should be controlling the environment during the
acclimation period. This allows the wood to stabilize in the new environment.
• Remove the packaging and allow the butcher block to have free airspace on the top and bottom during
acclimation. Set the block on 2 x 4s on edge, 12" to 18" apart, to keep the block o the oor and allow
air to circulate.
• Do not lay the block directly on the oor as this may cause cupping. Allowing the block to adjust to the
new environment prior to installation is a critical step in the installation process.
INSTALLING YOUR BUTCHER BLOCK TOP
When installing Butcher Block Countertops, it is very important to remember that all natural hardwood
products continue to move throughout their useful life. Changing temperatures and humidity levels will cause
wood to expand and contract. Installation methods must allow the top to be able to move during chang-
ing conditions or seasons.
• First, do not attach directly on top of a solid underlayment. Remove prior top. If a solid particle
board or MDF top is the underlayment, have large holes cut into them to assist with even and adequate
ventilation.
• The appropriate length #10 screws and washers should be carefully chosen so the screw does not go
all the way through the top but the depth of penetration is enough to secure the top in place. Generally,
the screw should go ½ the thickness of the countertop, except for 4” and 7” thick tops where 1 to 1 ½”
penetration is adequate. (Screw length is determined by the sub-top thickness + pilot hole penetration.)
• Place the block in the location that it will be installed. Allow 1/8” of room for expansion at each end
when the top is trapped between 2 walls. The gap can be concealed with backsplash material or the
trim of your choice.
• Butcher Block Surfaces should never be glued down with silicone caulk or construction adhesive
as this will prevent natural movement and result in damage to the top. Cracking and warping when tops
are installed using construction adhesive or silicone caulk will not be covered under warranty.
• Minimal xing is required as the tops will be held down by self weight. Use only enough fasteners to
secure the block. Too many fasteners can keep the top from moving freely and result in damage.
Fastener locations are usually in the corners.