Customer FAQs: Your Questions About Reclaimed Wood Answered

At Reclaimed Rustic Woodworks, we understand that choosing the right materials for your home is an important decision. Reclaimed wood, with its unique charm and history, often sparks curiosity and questions. As craftsmen deeply passionate about what we do, we want to provide you with honest, heartfelt answers to some of the most common questions we receive from our clients.

1. What Exactly is Reclaimed Wood?

Reclaimed wood is timber that has been salvaged from its original application, like old barns, warehouses, or railroad ties, and repurposed for new use. This wood often comes from old-growth trees and has a richness and history that new wood simply can't match.

2. Why Should I Choose Reclaimed Wood Over New Wood?

Choosing reclaimed wood is more than an aesthetic decision; it's a choice of sustainability and storytelling. Every piece of reclaimed wood has a history, a soul, and a story. It's environmentally friendly, as it reduces the need for new timber. Plus, its aged character offers a quality and durability that's hard to find in newer wood.

3. Is Reclaimed Wood Safe to Use in My Home?

Absolutely. We take great care in ensuring that every piece of reclaimed wood is thoroughly cleaned, treated, and prepared for safe residential use. We remove nails, sanitize, and kiln-dry the wood to eliminate any pests or mold, ensuring it's perfectly safe and ready for your home.

4. How Durable is Reclaimed Wood?

Reclaimed wood is incredibly durable. Much of it comes from old-growth trees, which means it's denser and more stable than much of the new wood available today. This durability translates to a product that can withstand the test of time, often becoming more beautiful with age.

5. IS EVERY SINGLE PIECE ENTIRELY RECLAIMED WOOD?

The essence of our craftsmanship is deeply anchored in the unique character and story of reclaimed wood. This beautifully aged timber, with its rich history and distinctive appeal, forms the heart and soul of our cabinets and furniture.

While reclaimed wood is the foundation of our work, we enhance our pieces with a blend of high-quality materials. This includes sturdy cabinet plywood, rustic rough sawn pine, and fresh new pine, selected for their strength and aesthetic compatibility.

To elevate our designs further, we incorporate handcrafted hardware and blacksmith-forged wrought iron. These elements are meticulously created to complement the reclaimed wood, adding an extra layer of authenticity and rugged elegance to our pieces.

Thus, while reclaimed wood is a central element of our designs, it is harmoniously combined with other premium materials and artisan-crafted details. This approach allows us to deliver not only visually stunning pieces but also furniture that stands the test of time both in durability and style.

6. Does Reclaimed Wood Require Special Care?

Reclaimed wood is incredibly durable. Our special finish options not only protect the cabinets and furniture but often times allow each piece to get better with age and use. Cleaning is as simple as wiping down with a damp cloth. For more details on specific care see our finish options page.

7. Can Reclaimed Wood Be Used in a Modern Design Aesthetic?

Definitely. One of the beauties of reclaimed wood is its versatility. It can complement a rustic, traditional aesthetic just as easily as it can add warmth and texture to a modern or industrial design. It's all about how you incorporate it into your space.

8. How Does Reclaimed Wood Impact the Environment?

Using reclaimed wood is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. It lessens the demand for newly harvested wood from forests, thereby helping to conserve natural resources. Plus, it reduces waste as it repurposes old wood that might otherwise end up in a landfill.

9. Are There Different Types of Reclaimed Wood?

Yes, there are various types of reclaimed wood, each with its unique characteristics and history. For example, barn wood is often salvaged from old barns and can range from rugged and rustic to more refined, depending on the original use and age of the barn.

10. Will My Reclaimed Wood Look Like the Pictures I See Online?

Each piece of reclaimed wood is unique, which is part of its charm. While we can show you general patterns and colors, your piece will have its own distinct markings and hues, making it uniquely yours.

11. Is Reclaimed Wood More Expensive Than New Wood?

The cost can vary, but generally, reclaimed wood can be more expensive than new wood due to the additional labor involved in its recovery, processing, and preparation. However, considering its aesthetic appeal, durability, and environmental benefits, many find it a worthwhile investment.

12. Can I Use Reclaimed Wood in Any Room of My Home?

Yes, you can use reclaimed wood in almost any room. Whether it's kitchen cabinetry, a bathroom vanity, or living room furniture, reclaimed wood adds a timeless element to any space.

13. How Does Reclaimed Wood Contribute to My Home’s Aesthetics?

Reclaimed wood adds warmth, character, and a sense of history to your home. Its textures and tones create a focal point and conversation starter, adding depth and personality to your space.

14. Is Each Piece of Reclaimed Wood Unique?

Absolutely. No two pieces of reclaimed wood are the same. Each has its own set of markings, grain patterns, and tones. This means that every piece of furniture or custom cabinet that we craft for you is one-of-a-kind.

15. How Do You Source Your Reclaimed Wood?

We source our wood from a variety of places, including old barns, warehouses, and historic buildings. We ensure that each piece is ethically sourced, maintaining respect for its history and origin.