Many stories about edge grain cutting boards have emerged everywhere, especially in the online world. The main point of the circulating news is that this type of cutting board is stronger and more durable to marks and scratches. Moreover, some people even claim that is nearly impossible to wrap this cutting board.
In order to understand more about cutting boards, below are the different types you should learn about:
- Face Grain Cutting Boards
Most cutting boards in the market are face grain types. It is like a piece of lumber cut into the size of a cutting board and then glued together on both ends. However, if you are going to make a smaller one, it is possible to do it using only one piece of wood. When it is done, you can call the end product a face grain cutting board.
To make the description clearer, this type of board is cut to reveal the wood’s pattern.
- End Grain Cutting Boards
This type of cutting board is also known as butcher blocks. You can rarely see this used in households but it is undeniable that it is getting more popular.
It is made by butcher blocks that are heavy and thick enough to endure intense cutting sessions of both bone and meat. Most people say that the end grain is the best option for a butcher block. However, the problem is, the definition of butcher block can be confusing. Some butcher blocks are even used to make kitchen islands.
Moreover, some people confuse butcher blocks with chef boards because they are also made with end grain. Remember that most of these words are marketing terms that tend to be confusing at times.
You can always use a butcher block as a cutting board. The only downside is they are heavier and thicker which makes them hard to clean and move around.
- Edge Grain Cutting Boards
Compared to end grain which is made by exposing board ends, edge grain is made by exposing the board’s staves or edges. This type of board is usually constructed from a quarter-sawn lumber. It is more durable compared to the face grain, but could never match the durability of end grain.
End Grain VS. Edge Grain
Now you may feel like everything became more confusing. If you want to make the best decision in purchasing a cutting board, you must read this detailed comparison below.
Edge grain cutting boards are popular for being durable and affordable both at the same time. The disadvantage of this type of board it can dull your knives faster. Moreover, the board will have cut marks after long-term use which will damage the aesthetic quality of the board.
While end grain cutting boards are more expensive but most people believe that it is worth the price. Not only it is better for the lifespan of your knife’s blades, but the board has also a self-healing feature. It means that the wood’s fiber automatically closes after being cut by the knife.
You can check out Kitchen Hacker Shop when you are looking for an end grain cutting board.