Many centuries ago, a wise king stated, “There is nothing new under the sun.” The statement was true then and still true today. Don’t believe it? Then look at the resurgence in re-using products such as metal, paper, wood, old furniture and many more items that we once would have tossed. Now, we spend time looking for ways to incorporate those older items to be something beautiful. One such item that is extremely popular is reclaimed barn wood.
There are many reasons that people are opting for reclaimed wood over simply going to the lumber yard and purchasing new wood. Here are but a few of them:
- In a world where we are constantly looking for ways to recycle, it is time to go back to the basics. So, why not begin with wood. By using reclaimed barn wood, you help preserve the forest and responsibly use the resources our environment provides.
- Preparing reclaimed barn wood for use takes little toll on the environment.
- It takes more energy to process and use new wood, than it does to prepare reclaimed barn wood for a project.
- Because today’s world often wants lumber from young virgin trees, trees grown commercially are rarely long enough to reach their full potential size. Consequently, using reclaimed wood allows you to have longer planks of wood cut, making it perfect for large projects.
- Because the wood has already stood the test of time, it is fully dried out and thus more durable than new wood.
- Every section of reclaimed wood is different, so you can create a unique pattern and design. This variation in patterning and color makes it ideal for ceilings, flooring, countertops and many other decorative elements in a home or office.
- Reclaimed barn wood is sometimes referred to as historical wood or story wood because each board tells a story. When you purchase reclaimed wood, be sure to ask about the history of the wood. After all, there’s something special about owning a piece of history.
- When it is used for a project where it will not be walked on, there is no need to treat it with sealants or stains. Thus, it is quicker to install. For flooring, it can be prepped with simple sanding, with staining being optional. However, in staining you don’t have to be concerned about the integrity of the wood, as the staining will only show off the imperfections that make it beautiful.
There are many sources of reclaimed wood. You can find it in salvage stores, on the property location, by visiting re-stores and even by contacting a company to make new wood look like old. But regardless of where you find, you are sure to be pleased with the finished project in which it is used. So, what will you build with repurposed barn wood? Get started today.