The Golden Value of Reclaimed Beams - And The History Behind Them

Reclaimed wood is used in various applications, such as wall panels, shiplap paneling, wall planks, and custom trim or moldings. The beauty of reclaimed pieces gives any interior a rustic and natural feel while ensuring durability and strength. Because recycled wood is quite strong, it is also used as reclaimed wood beams. The rise of reclaimed beams in today’s modern architecture has been a welcomed practice as far as sustainability is concerned.

What Are Reclaimed Beams?

Reclaimed wood is a term for recycled wood from old structures. Reclaimed beams used to be part of previous buildings, barns, factories, and other places. These beams are upcycled to provide functional support in new buildings.

These reclaimed beams are often used in building sustainable and eco-friendly structures. Because the pieces are sourced from existing or previously existing constructions, no trees are cut down in making the beams.

Why Choose Reclaimed Beams?

A reclaimed beam, whether rough sawn or hand hewn, has a striking appearance. Antique beams are aesthetically pleasing and create a focal point of interest. Most would go well in rustic, classic, and contemporary interiors. But more than their amazing physical attributes, reclaimed beams have profound advantages.

Unmatched Durability

Exposure to elements causes warping and cracking over the years. Yet, reclaimed wood pieces have withstood the test of time. Reclaimed beams are more durable and stronger than beams cut and made from recently logged trees. Reclaimed wood is known to be harder and scores 40 points higher on the Janka Scale of Hardness compared to its virgin wood counterparts.

Rich in History

Every wood beam that you see is full of stories. It might have held the roof of an old barn, supported coal mines, or perhaps a part of a factory that employed thousands during the Industrial Revolution. It would feel nice to be a part of this kind of history in the present-day time by bringing a piece of that era into your home.

Golden Value

Reclaimed wood may be expensive, but they hold value regarding rarity and exquisiteness. Reclaimed wood beams are the answer if you want to stand out from the rest.

Eco-Friendly Option

Reducing deforestation by logging has a huge environmental impact. Reclaimed wood helps save Mother Earth because wood is not sourced by cutting trees but rather by recycling old ones and using them for new applications.

FAQs

Is it safe to use reclaimed beams?

Because old box beams and other reclaimed lumber have been treated with hazardous chemicals back in the day, such as lead and creosote, there is a looming danger of reusing them. However, you can remedy this by purchasing beams from reputable dealers. These dealers hire experts to check reclaimed wood. Properly treated reclaimed wood is safe to use.

Are reclaimed beams expensive?

Reclaimed beams may be expensive, depending on where you get them. Sourcing them directly from property owners of barns, factories, and other old structures can fetch a lesser price tag. The rarity of reclaimed wood pieces and the law of supply and demand also contribute to higher prices.

How strong are reclaimed beams?

Reclaimed beams are stronger than regular wood beams. Reclaimed wood is 40 points harder on the Janka Scale. Beams from these recycled wood fares well in providing structural support since age makes the timber more durable and stronger.

Where to Buy Reclaimed Beams

Alderfer Lumber Company Inc. offers all sorts of reclaimed timber, from hand hewn beams to rough sawn beams. These beams were sourced from old barns, mills, factories, and other structural buildings that are rich in their respective history.

Our team of experts also performed thorough checks on our reclaimed lumber products to ensure they are free from hazardous chemicals or sharp objects such as nails and screws. We prioritize our customers’ safety as much as we prioritize providing you with wonderful reclaimed pieces that you can use for posts and beams and other custom millwork projects.

Our supplies sell fast. Give us a call or email us the specifications of what you are looking for so that we can check our current stock of reclaimed beams.