[mmfivecoat]

We just installed the birch butcher block counter tops. I have found that they are already staining. I have tried various cleaners and remedies to remove the stains and nothing is working. Is there a lacquer or finish we should put on to avoid setting stains?

[kisaacs]

How you finish them depends on what you want out of them -

If you want to cut on them, you need some sort of oil finish - mineral or tung oil are the most common. Oil finishes will stain to some degree, I believe.

If you don't want to cut on them, you can try something like Waterlox. It's a sealer and I've had it on my counter for two years with no staining at all. (Note: I have maple, not birch, but I believe the effect would be the same). The waterlox takes several coats, takes 24 hours to dry, and stinks, but it works.

Kristen