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No, you don't have to apply polyurethane to butcher block countertops. Polyurethane sealant is a long-lasting finish for a butcher block counter, but its application also requires thoroughly sanding the surface multiple times. Other materials, such as mineral oil, require less work but must be applied more frequently.

When browsing the hardware store, you may wonder about wood putty versus wood filler. Wood putty is made with plastic adhesive, whereas wood filler is made from sawdust or wood products. 

The main difference is that people use wood filler to fix the interior portions of wood. Wood putty contains chemicals that could damage the inside of wood, so it's best for exterior sections. If the crack or hole goes into the middle of the lumber, it's the right product for the job.

Wood stains last anywhere from two to five years, depending on exposure to the elements, your local climate, the type of stain, and the surface it’s on. For instance, vertical surfaces last longer than horizontal surfaces. Some types of woods, like dense hardwoods, will require a recoat yearly, as they are too dense for the stain to absorb. In any event, apply a recoat every 2 to 4 years. As for storage, a can of unopened stain can last up to 5 years, though results may vary.

Yes, you can tackle small rooms yourself if you're handy and have a flat, clean subfloor to work with. But seams must be sealed properly, or the barrier will fail. Any gaps will let moisture sneak through and defeat the purpose of installing this more expensive type of carpet padding. For larger rooms or areas, professional installation is usually worth the extra cost.