Reclaimed hardwood is a highly desired building material that homeowners – and even commercial developers – often use in their projects.
Pros of buying reclaimed hardwood flooring
Not only are reclaimed hardwood floors sustainable, but they also fit renovations of older homes perfectly as they blend seamlessly with existing decor.
It can be less expensive than new flooring.
Common species of hardwood such as oak can be as much as fifty percent less expensive than new.
If price is less of a concern, rare hardwoods such as heart pine, American elm and chestnut can be found, at a hearty $10 per square foot and up.
Cons of buying reclaimed hardwood
Authenticity
The popularity of using reclaimed hardwood opens up the market to scammers. To avoid paying top dollar for the wrong product only do business with reputable dealers.
In addition to good reviews, look for certifications from organizations such as the Rainforest Alliance or the Forest Stewardship Council.
Price
As noted earlier, it may be more costly to purchase reclaimed wood than new.
This is due to the extra process that reclaimed wood goes through such as:
- ⬥ Removing nails, staples, etc.
- ⬥ Checking for toxins
- ⬥ Sorting wood and ensuring that it’s safe to use.
Tip: You can mitigate this expense somewhat by doing some of the pre-processing yourself.
Toxins
Old lumber may have been treated with paint, chemicals, adhesives, preservatives, etc. that we now know to be dangerous. (e.g. lead, insecticides)
If you are sourcing the wood yourself, be sure to check it for toxins…otherwise, this is something a reputable reclaimed hardwood flooring dealer will do before selling it to you.
Pests
Bugs find wood as irresistible as you do.
Before buying reclaimed wood or tearing down something to harvest the wood yourself, look for signs of a bug infestation such as asymmetrical holes and wood that crumbles to the touch.
To ensure that all invasive pests have been destroyed the wood should be kiln-dried so be sure to ask your supplier if he’s done this important step.
Hidden problems
Unless you buy from a reputable reclaimed wood company you could run into unforeseen problems.
(e.g. nails pounded deep into the wood…that your saw WILL find when you’re using it…or maybe a nest of drywood termites snuggled in all nice and cozy.)
Tip: If your wood dealer hasn’t tested for lead (from old paint) it’s easy to find a lead-paint test kit for around $10 to $20 dollars that is EPA approved.
Where to find reclaimed hardwood
Hardwood flooring is easier to find than you might think.
Salvage yards often post information and images of items they have for sale on their websites. This can save a lot of time if you find something you like.
Even if a particular seller doesn’t have what you’re looking for give them a call and tell them what you’re interested in.
Online resources
Check free online sites such as eBay, Craigslist and even Facebook to find sources of reclaimed wood.
Once you find what you think will be the right hardwood flooring don’t order it without first inspecting it in person. If the wood isn’t suitable for your needs there’s no sense in buying it, even if it’s beautiful.
Calculate what you need then add a buffer of 10 percent for waste to be sure that you have enough.
In summary, reclaimed wood can be a beautiful and sustainable product to use if it’s harvested properly. Once you’ve zeroed in on what you need, ensure a successful project by using wood from reputable sources.
