What is the best method for securely attaching a 1.5″ thick red oak butcher block countertop to a 5/8″ thick plyboard cabinet top for a kitchen island?
Asked by Sharron Pierce 
6 months ago
Last Updated: May 30, 2024
I’ve got this cabinet that I want to turn into a mini island in my kitchen by adding a butcher block countertop on top. How should I go about attaching the butcher block? The cabinet top is made of 5/8″ thick plyboard, and the butcher block is a standard 1.5″ thick red oak, with about a 6″ overhang at the front and back. I was thinking of using a sturdy construction adhesive, but do you think that will do the trick?
Something like Titebond wood glue should be fine.
You need to take off the finish so the glue can stick. PL should do the job.
Just a few of these, along with some wood glue, should suffice:
I recommend using figure 8 table top fasteners. Create a recess in the plywood for one side and add an access hole to allow for screwing from underneath on the other side. Place them every few feet.
You have the option to predrill and countersink holes on the underside of the plywood top, and then secure with screws into the butcher block.
I’m a bit confused, why not just screw through the top of the cabinet and into the counter top? I don’t see the need for brackets if the cabinet top is solid. Adding some construction adhesive wouldn’t hurt either if you want extra reinforcement.
Installing screws from underneath is the way to go.
Screws are a good choice for replacing or repairing the top instead of using glue. If you plan to keep the current top, using screws provides ample space. Opt for screws without threads near the head to prevent the butcher block from being pushed away from the cabinet top. It’s recommended to drill pilot holes to avoid any risk of splitting.
You won’t need any glue, just predrill small holes and use wood screws with round heads. Be sure to confirm the correct screw length before securing them!