Tips For Finding Reclaimed Wood And Materials

These days, reclaimed wood is being used in a variety of home renovation and home decorating projects. Used reclaimed materials saves money and in most cases, helps the environment. The old materials do not end up in a landfill when they are reused for home building or decorating projects. But, many people need to be pointed in the right direction, to find the materials they want. Here are a few suggestions for finding reclaimed lumber and wood materials.

Pallets

Pallets are desirable to those who want rustic decor, either inside the home or in outdoor living spaces. They can be turned into chairs, couches, and tables. Some places to find suitable pallets are automotive parts stores, auto dealerships, and local companies that receive large orders of raw materials. However, before embarking on a wood pallet project, try to find out where the pallets were made and if they have been treated with chemicals. Health and safety should be a concern when considering how and where pallets will be used.

Shipping Crates

Shipping crates are typically made of beech, though they may be made of other sturdy woods. They can be found at shipping ports and possibly at businesses that frequently ship products overseas. Always ask if they have been treated or have been used to ship chemicals that could be toxic.

Old Barns, Chicken Coops, and Sheds

Old barns, chicken coops, and wood sheds are excellent sources of wood that may be reused. Property owners who want structures removed may offer wood to anyone who is able to take down the structure and dispose of any rotted boards or framework. If you can properly dispose of any wood that is no longer structurally sound, you may be able to get solid wood beams free of charge.

If you're using the wood indoors, you may not want wood from old chicken coops. However, if properly cleaned, it can be used outdoors for decorative fencing and landscaping.

Salvage Yards and Second Hand Materials Stores

Salvage yards and stores that sell second hand building materials may have left over wood flooring, wainscoting, and cabinetry that can be used for other projects. For example, base cabinets in good shaped that were removed from a kitchen may be painted and spruced up to become bases for bathroom vanities or for garage storage.

Before you begin your next home project involving wood materials, check out some of these local resources.