Using Reclaimed Wood for Flooring

One of the hottest trends in interior design right now is the use of reclaimed materials. The combination of vintage charm and eco-friendly thriftiness is appealing, but using reclaimed wood is a slightly complex process. There are a few things people should know before deciding to work with reclaimed wood.

Buyers Need to Get More Than They Think
Reclaimed wood has already been cut to fit an entirely different building. Therefore, homeowners typically need to resize the timber to fit their home. No matter how careful a person is, there is inevitably some wastage. People should carefully measure their square footage and try to get 10 percent more wood than they think they will need.

Don’t Forget About the Challenges of Delivery
Sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay make it easy to look for reclaimed wood all over the nation. However, it is essential to remember that wood is a bulky, heavy item that can be tough to ship. Depending on where a person purchases wood from, they may need to add several hundred dollars to their budget or be willing to wait several months to get their wood delivered.

Do Research on Wood Species Before Picking Reclaimed Wood
One huge perk of reclaimed wood is that it allows homeowners to access certain species of old-growth hardwood that are no longer being harvested today. Options like redwood, heart pine, and American elm have a unique look and beautiful patina. It may be worthwhile to do a little extra shopping to find these exotic species. Taking the time to hunt down unusual wood types can have stunning results.

Reclaimed Wood Still Needs Finishing
Reclaiming wood is not as simple as prying up floorboards at one home and nailing them down in another. Floors were often finished with lead-based paints and varnishes that can be hazardous to remove with DIY sanding. The safest and most effective option is usually hiring an expert. They can strip wood without damage, mill it to address any bending, and it to prevent future warping. Getting someone to refinish the wood typically adds about $2 to $4 per square foot to the costs, but it is beneficial.

Originally published at https://ericcapolino.net.