How To Choose The Right Reclaimed Wood

Choosing the right reclaimed wood is important. Like shopping at the grocery store for ripe fruits and vegetables, you have to make sure you are using quality reclaimed wood for whatever project you plan on doing.

Check For Cracks

Make sure to check your reclaimed wood for cracks or splits. Damage like this can hurt the structure of the wood and weaken the project. Along with cracks or splits, inspect the reclaimed wood for any rot or mold, which are a huge no-no if found. If you need to use epoxy to fill any cracks or splits, do so but only if they are small.

Check For Stability

You have to make sure your reclaimed wood has not been treated poorly, perhaps due to extreme weather conditions. Bits that look like they have sawdust can possibly indicate wood eating insects. Also, before buying reclaimed wood, picture the aesthetics in your head.

Check Distributor Reputation

Aim for distributors that specialize in recycling reclaimed wood or at least co-specialize. Getting reclaimed wood from Craigslist ads or broken down places can be a mistake. What’s best about reclaimed wood distributors is their ability to select the right healthy wood, and then process it to make sure it’s dry, and stable.

Check For Lead Paint

Obviously, a reputable distributor will take care of this, but it should be mentioned just in case. Make sure there is no lead paint on your reclaimed wood. Always sand the wood. Wea a mask, and make sure to keep the reclaimed wood away from children during the process.

Check For Beauty

Just because you’re essentially buying a used product, doesn’t mean you have to settle for low quality. Again, locate a reputable distributor to get the highest quality possible. There are different styles to choose from and plenty of looks you can work with for your projects.