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How to Fix a Split Wooden Tongue & Groove Cutting Board

Tongue and groove cutting boards are an attractive and functional tool for any kitchen. Over time, the cutting board may develop a split due to regular usage. If your cutting board splits, you can repair it. Be sure to repair the split as soon as you notice it to prevent further damage to the cutting board. The split often occurs between one of the tongue and groove joints, but any split can be repaired using wood glue.

Things You'll Need

  • Utility knife
  • Food-safe wood glue
  • Wood clamp
  • Sanding block, fine-grit
  • Tack cloth
  • Cutting board oil
  • Cloth rag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Slide the utility knife blade into the split in the cutting board. Carefully spread the split open with the blade so that it is open enough to allow you to squeeze glue into it.

    • 2

      Squeeze wood glue into the split in the cutting board and remove the utility knife blade. Press the split together with your hands.

    • 3

      Clamp the cutting board tightly to squeeze the split together using a wood clamp. Allow the glue to dry for 24 hours and remove the clamp.

    • 4

      Sand the glued area with a fine-grit sanding block until the repaired area is flush with the rest of the cutting board. Always sand with the wood grain. Wipe off the sanding dust with a tack cloth.

    • 5

      Rub cutting board oil over the cutting board surface to replenish the finish on it using a cloth rag.