RECLAIMED LUMBER PRODUCTS

It all boils down to the superior quality of old wood growth. Modern trees have the luxury of receiving ample sunlight as they compete with less foliage for resources. Although this may seem like a positive attribute, it can have a negative impact on the tree’s overall strength and durability. With rapid vertical growth, the core of the tree is given less time to develop properly, resulting in a weaker structure. In contrast, old wood trees thrived in forests packed with dense vegetation. This forced them to grow taller and leaner as they vied for sunlight, but it also allowed for slower, steadier core growth. Over time, the core developed into a denser, more resilient structure that could withstand the elements and the test of time. It is this characteristic of old wood growth that makes barnwood such a sought-after material for flooring, paneling, and furniture. Its age and the conditions in which it was cultivated ensure that it is imbued with unmatched durability and stability. Additionally, the natural wear and patina that occur over time add a unique character and charm to the reclaimed lumber pieces.

Apply a wax or wood finish (ideally polyurethane solutions) to your planks before you transform them into a recycled beauty. There should be at least an hour’s delay time between layers; therefore, plan on applying two or three.

If you are installing solid hardwood flooring, nails are the superior choice. Nailing is also considered the most common method. But ultimately, the decision between nailing and screwing boils down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the flooring you are installing.

Solid hardwood requires a subfloor free of obstacles, so any vinyl, carpet, concrete, or ceramic tiles must go. Engineered hardwood floors can be glued or floated down on any subfloor, such as concrete, wood, tile, or fully adhered vinyl.

In some cases, wood glue can be strong enough to be used without nails or screws. Lumber joints, like box joints, must have a lot of space for the wood adhesive to stick to. A joint formed by butting two separate pieces of timber together and then gluing them will not be very sturdy.

Time required for drying ranges from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on factors such as wood species, ambient temperature, humidity, and wood adhesive. Don’t mistake cooling time for hardening time, though. Curing can take up to 24 hours, but drying time is much shorter.

To install the reclaimed lumber floor, place a plank with the outside of the tongue flush with the chalk line. Nail along the cleft side of the plank through the face with a finish nailer. Fill the area between the floor and the walls with shims or dividers to keep the floor from moving.