I read recently that cutting on countertops is a bad idea (from a sanitary point of view). Separate cutting boards are preferred.
I put butcher block in my kitchen on all the counters except the sink counter which I have not yet replaced.
I created separate cutting boards from the scrap.
I applied four coats of oil based poly (gloss). I did not put it to use for the first 7 days and for three more weeks I used coasters and silicone mats to protect the finish. Regardless of what anyone says, the oil based finishes, especially if you are applying 3 or more coats, continue to cure for many months after application.
It is 8 or 9 years now. No maintenance at all except to wipe down with a damp towel. Still looks great with only tiny scratches in a few places. I might just scuff it up one day and apply another coat.
I don't baby the surface. My major investment in the finish is waiting for a month to put it to full service. I was careful for a few months after that.
A week old poly in that thickness will pass my thumbnail test (scraping as hard as I can with my thumbnail) but will not ace the edge-of-a-copper-penny test. The edge of the penny will not break through the finish, but will make indents. A year later it will fully ace the test regardless of how hard I press and scrape.
I am happy with the oil based poly and the fact that it requires no maintenance. (Minwax Oil based poly--nothing too exotic.)
