Before we delve into the pros and cons of reclaimed wood flooring, you may be asking yourself: What is reclaimed wood?
What Is Reclaimed Wood
Reclaimed wood flooring is made from timber that has been recovered from old buildings/structures and reused to create beautiful and timeless flooring.
This type of reclaimed timber proudly displays the wear it has attained over its lifetime, making it very distinctive.
Pros of Using Reclaimed Wood
Many Different Uses
A benefit of using this type of timber is that you can use it pretty much for anything! For example, decking, wood tables, kitchen countertops, bedroom cabinets, shelving, and anything else you can make from wood.
Eco Friendly
When you decide to use reclaimed flooring, you immediately decrease the demand for new timber to be made.
This then helps curb deforestation, and if harvested responsibly it can also be a renewable source that reduces landfill waste.
Stronger
This type of wood can be anywhere up to 40 points harder on the Janka hardness scale. This is because it usually comes from older trees from old-growth forests.
Unique Look
Because the wood has been ageing for years, the wear it receives is very noticeable, but that’s what makes it very desirable! It’s hard to find a true ‘aged and weathered’ wood without it being reclaimed.
Cons of Using Reclaimed Wood
Price
Reclaimed wood might be more expensive than virgin wood, however, this is because of the process it has to undergo.
As you can imagine, if the wood has been used before, there may be things such as nails and glue still attached to the wood. A dealer will sort and prepare the wood so it’s ready and safe for consumer use.
Pests
A lot of bugs and critters bury in wood and make it their home. Before buying and taking the wood home, we recommend inspecting the wood first for any signs of infestation.
Infestation signs can include holes, bugs, or even parts that crumble when touched.
If you are using reclaimed wood for building anything, from flooring to a tabletop, the wood needs to be dried in a kiln to ensure any bugs and pests are killed.
Other Types Of Wood
Want to know more about the different types of wood? Read our informative blogs.
Reclaimed Wood Flooring – Sussex Floor Restoration
Looking at restoring your hardwood or parquet floors? Look no further than Sussex Floor Restoration.
We provide floor restoration services to a host of different audiences including schools and other commercial buildings, but we also work with domestic clients to improve the look of flooring in your home.
Get in contact with Adam and his team today at 01444 810505, or fill out or form here.
