Cutting boards are commonly referred to as Face Grain, Edge Grain, and End Grain.  The different terms have to do with how the boards are oriented relative to the cutting surface.  Face grain is simply gluing several boards together.  Edge grain is the same except the boards are flipped on their side before gluing.  End grain has the boards stacked on end and then glued.

With Face and Edge grain boards the knife cuts across the wood fibers, whereas with End grain boards the knife cuts in between the fibers.  Since the fibers are not being severed on an End grain board, the knife will not dull as quickly and the board and your knife will last longer.  Face and Edge grain boards are easier and quicker to make than End grain (and less expensive), and will show knife marks more readily.  An End grain board will look as good years from now as it does when new.  Isn't that what an Heirloom should be?

Numerous studies have been done that show a wood cutting board is more sanitary than glass or plastic.  Bacteria cannot live on a wooden surface like it can with glass or plastic due to the properties of wood.  All of my cutting boards are made with an FDA approved waterproof glue (not water resistant).  Silicone feet are added to the bottom of the board to lift it off the counter and keep it from sitting in moisture that might be present (which could also cause the board to warp). The feet are secured with stainless steel screws that won’t rust.