I have one wooden counter, of Ikea butcher block. It's more of a "putting down" spot, than a work spot, but after 6 coats of Salad Bowl Finish, I've never oiled it again. Going on two years now. My sister has all wooden counters in her kitchen (even at the sink) - they look fabulous. They used linseed oil, and did 8 coats. She told me she's never needed to re-oil them in 2 years, and I know they get pretty hard treatment. Incidentally, having spent some time looking at photos of properties in the UK recently (another story), I see that wood counters are really popular there, and they look great.

I remember a post from a few years ago about LL butcherblock being full of internal voids when it was cut. Their flooring is so questionable that I wouldn't expect much better from their BB. If you have an industrial supply anywhere near, they often have shop worktops that are inexpensive and rustic looking, but still good quality. I've used McMaster Carr before. You can even get stainless or oak tops too as well as the maple. Here is a link that might be useful: McMaster Carr

Lagan is the new name for the old Pronomen. These are the counters I have in my NJ kitchen. No splitting, germs (? lol, funny), whatever. As with almost any bb, it will warp if you don't properly store/acclimate it prior to install or if you don't finish it with something. Do a search here for IKEA BB countertops - you should find plenty of hits. Waterlox is available from the Waterlox website; also available at some local places - you'll have to call around. IKEA does not have it and is not affiliated with Waterlox. Yes, you just go to IKEA to the Kitchens department and order - then pick up right there and then in the Furniture Pick-Up and take them with you. If you need, you can also arrange for home delivery, but I've never done that so I can't comment on that. Here is a link that might be useful: One IKEA BB thread with pics

I can't speak to the quality of the non ikea butcher block, but I can't imagine that they are better quality because my ikea butcher block is unbelievably beautiful. I wish I knew how to post a pic here because I think people would be shocked. I think it was the waterlox that brought out the beauty of them though, I sanded and water loxed at least 6 times, and not only are they gorgeous, but they are bullet proof. They don't scratch, stain, or anything. I'm pretty shocked. They have a gorgeous rich color, they look like a custom job. My aunt has the same ikea counters and didn't water lox and I don't care for them though.