Used for Reclaimed Wood in The Home
Wood in general can make a home feel warm and cozy, but there’s a special type of wood that amplifies that effect — reclaimed wood. Repurposed from old barns and other structures, reclaimed wood is rich in character and history.
But where does this wood come from and what are some uses for it in your home?
Furniture
When structures like barns, factories or ships are demolished or redesigned, there is often a surplus of wood that would otherwise be tossed. Some companies save this material to give it a new life in furniture. Reclaimed wood usually goes through a process to remove any features that could undermine the quality of the finished product, such as excessive rot or irreparable damage. It is then kiln dried to further stabilize the material from cracking or warping.
The result is a stylish and rustic type of furniture that can be adapted to a wide range of design styles. Because of its history, reclaimed wood has character that you can’t find in newer materials. It tells a story about the house that you live in and can become a conversation piece among family and friends. It also adds an element of uniqueness to your home that stands out in a sea of cookie cutter homes. It can even raise your home’s value by making it more appealing to potential buyers. This is especially true when used in shared areas like living rooms or bedrooms.
Flooring
Using reclaimed wood in flooring creates a rustic look that is both unique and beautiful. In addition to the aesthetic appeal, reclaimed wood is environmentally responsible. When used in place of new hardwood floors, it reduces the demand for virgin wood and cuts down on landfill waste. Choosing reclaimed wood can also help curb deforestation by cutting down on the number of trees needed to produce virgin lumber.
Reclaimed wood floors are more durable and long-lasting than floors made from newer wood. This is because the older wood has already been exposed to temperature shifts and humidity changes over time. This makes it much less likely to warp or crack over time.
Another advantage of using reclaimed wood in your floors is the variety of tones and textures available. Unlike newer wood floors, which are often produced from fast-growing hardwoods, old wood comes from slow-growing trees that were harvested more than 100 years ago. This means that reclaimed wood floors have a more varied color scheme and a more rustic appearance. In addition, reclaimed wood floors often have wider planks than those made from newer wood.
Cabinets
Cabinets are a major investment in your home, so it’s important to select a material that will last. Solid wood cabinets are more durable than other materials and can be sanded down and restained if needed. They also tend to keep their value over time, which can increase the resale value of your home.
Reclaimed wood is another sustainable option for cabinets. It’s salvaged from other buildings and barns to give new life to them, and it can help add character to your home. This type of wood may have nail holes or marks from its previous use, but a carpenter can create custom cabinets that will hide these imperfections.
Doors
Many home builders choose reclaimed wood for doors because it adds character and is beautiful. It can also be more durable than standard doors that can warp and discolor over time.
Reclaimed lumber can look just like new wood, and it will hold up well to the elements in your home. It may need a little extra care when it is exposed to humidity, though, since it can swell and shrink in high humidity. Using dehumidifiers and taking measurements during dry weather can help minimize this effect.
Another great benefit of reclaimed wood is its ability to cut down on traveling sound. This can be a real benefit in single-family homes, and even in apartment buildings or college dorms.
Reclaimed barn door styles are a popular trend this year, and they can be an impressive accent to your home. They can add a touch of farmhouse chic, and match beautifully with other rustic home decor. You can leave them unfinished or paint them for a more personalized look. They can even serve as a focal point in your home office or living room.
Walls
Reclaimed wood adds a rustic feel to any room, and a beautiful alternative to new wall paneling. Reclaimed lumber is often milled to create a smooth surface or left in its rougher state, whichever look you choose. It is easy to install and works just like any other wood material.
To ensure a quality finish, it is important to thoroughly inspect reclaimed wood before installing. Look for areas of rot, and make sure they are not deep enough to cause structural damage. Also, check for nails and screws, as they may be embedded in the reclaimed wood.
If you do find nail holes, use a magnetic detector to locate and remove the fasteners. If the reclaimed lumber is painted, consider painting over the paint with zero VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint. This will help to protect your indoor air quality and maintain a fresh, natural looking finish. If unpainted, choose a color that complements the wood paneling, and be sure to use a water-based product. Using a high ceiling and a neutral paint color will help the reclaimed wood stand out and look great in your home.
