I think one of the reasons is that wood expands in two dimensions (radially and tangentially, or from the center of the tree out and around the perimeter, expressed as width and thickness), but negligibly in length. So the side to side approach means that it gets thicker (who cares?) and wider (where front to back expansion doesn't affect much if you allow for it.) Layout in the way you recommend is going to change the length significantly (for example an 8' countertop might expand and contract 1-2") Even if you don't care if the overlap on the end changes that much, you will have to allow for this significant amount of movement in how it's attached to the base cabinets or you are going to wake up one night to what sounds like a gunshot and you will have a giant crack in your countertop.

In addition, going the typical way means you can run through a 24" planer or wide belt sander without getting chip out or cross grain scratches.

While this discusses "end grain" butcherblock, not what you want, it discusses wood movement http://www.thewoodwhisperer.com/videos/why-did-my-cutting-board-split/

Good point. I failed to mention that I want to use quarter sawn white oak but quarter sawn maple would be o.k. if I can find/afford it. Still too much movement? I would definitely slot the screw holes for mounting the top. I would also build in sections for sanding and use biscuits (or stopped splines) for alignment.

The only way it is going to work is to cut it into veneers and glue it up into plywood. Then it will be dimensionally stable in all directions.

O.K. you guys have talked me out of it but regarding your comment Sombreuil, why would it be more unstable than the end grain countertops I've seen?

jbrot:

This is one of those things where the theory may not meet what's practical. I find it hard to believe that kiln dried white oak glued up as described will have many or any problems in this application.

As long as this countertop is in a climate controlled kitchen, I can't see that expansion and contraction would be a problem. While that isn't the traditional layout, I don't get why it wouldn't work if assembled with waterproof glue and an appropriate finish.

Isn't the traditional layout simply a reflection of the construction of butcherblock as a use for miscellaneous pieces of random lengths?