First off Shooting Knots’ reclaimed wood furniture not going unnoticed for its beauty, eco-friendly nature or character. Whether searching for a farmhouse dining table, rustic coffee table, country-style headboard or anything else, you can browse all reclaimed wood possibilities and more! Before you start making over your space, you should know what makes this furniture so special and how to care for it.
In this blog, we will provide answers to several common questions surrounding reclaimed wood furniture so you can buy pieces that perfectly match your style and values.
What is reclaimed wood furniture?
Reclaimed wood furniture is furniture that is cut from reclaimed timber, or lumber. Instead of chopping down new trees, artisans and manufacturers work from wood that is salvaged from buildings, barns, factories, ships and beyond. Not only is this practice environmentally friendly, but it also adds an anecdote to each piece.
The wood often shows grain patterns, nail holes and other imperfections that give it character, and it is anything but cookie-cutter furniture you see in big-box stores.
Why choose reclaimed wood furniture?
There are a few reasons why reclaimed wood is so popular for people who love furniture:
- Sustainability
Reclaimed wood is environmentally friendly by decreasing deforestation and waste. It’s an eco-friendly means of having beautiful furniture while not damaging the planet.
- Durability
Reclaimed wood comes primarily from old-growth forests, so it tends to be denser than much of what’s newly harvested and therefore more durable.
- Aesthetic and character
No two will ever be the same and you’ll treasure each for their history, patina, and textures. These aspects help ensure the furniture is a great talking point in any home.
- Versatility
Reclaimed wood works well with many different décor styles – from rustic farmhouse to industrial chic to contemporary minimalism or just about anything else.
- Value addition
Unlike factory made furniture, reclaimed wood pieces tend to appreciate in value as they age.
Where does reclaimed wood come from?
Reclaimed lumber will come from a number of places, including:
- Old barns
Barn wood, with its warm tones, is particularly popular. This kind of wooden is generally made up of pine, oak or chestnut.
- Factories and industrial buildings
Lustrous hardwood beams and planks that were once employed in old warehouses are frequently re-cycled to charm as fine furniture.
- Railroad ties and ships
This wood, as well as teak and mahogany, are also rich in history and high quality.
- Wine or whiskey barrels
Barrel wood has a unique finish, history and even aroma.
How can I tell if my furniture is made of genuine reclaimed wood?
Here’s what to look for to make sure your furniture is truly reclaimed wood:
- Unique imperfections
Find some natural grain lines or nail holes or weathered edges that you wouldn’t normally notice in new wood.
- Seller transparency
A reputable vendor will be able to tell you the origin of the wood or where it grew.
- Authenticity in craftsmanship
The natural imperfections are something we love and adorn our pieces every now and then to showcase the great character of reclaimed wood.
Is reclaimed wood furniture safe for my home?
Reclaimed wood furniture is absolutely safe for your home when it has been well-produced and sourced responsibly. Most respectable manufacturers clean, kiln dry and treat the wood for pests, mold and harmful chemicals. Ask the seller about the treatments and processing they use to prepare the wood.
How should I care for reclaimed wood furniture?
Caring for Your Reclaimed Wood Furniture Reclaimed is a strong, sturdy and dependable furniture choice that is a great choice for any home. Here are some care tips:
- Dust regularly
Use a microfibre cloth to purify dust little by little without scratching Metallic surface.
- Avoid direct sunlight
Exposure to the sun can cause the wood’s natural finish to fade.
- Use coasters and placemats
Shields surface from water rings and heat damage from cups, plates and pots.
- Clean spills immediately
Wipe up spills with a moist cloth to prevent stains.
- Occasional oiling
Some reclaimed wood does not need oiling and some may need to be oiled with natural furniture oils periodically to preserve its finish and prevent it from drying looking for years.
Are there downsides to reclaimed wood furniture?
As much as we love reclaimed wood furniture, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Cost
Because of the lengthy, labor-intensive process used to create reclaimed wood furniture, it can be more expensive than commercially available types of furniture.
- Availability
And because every piece of wood is different, stock may be limited, so it can be hard to find an exact match if you’re building a set.
- Imperfections
So long as you think of the imperfections as adding character, and not detracting from the experience, there is little to complain about. Make sure you’re in love with the rustic look before you shell out.
Can reclaimed wood furniture be customized?
Absolutely! Most craftsmen and companies do customization of design, size and finish. And reclaimed wood is so versatile that it also allow for the construction of dinning tables, desks, shelving units, bed frames, etc. If you want something that is truly one of a kind, then you might consider having something custom made.
Where can I buy reclaimed wood furniture?
Find trusted historic lumber companies or craftsmen who specialize in reclaimed wood. Here’s where to start:
- Local artisans
I would recommend looking for up-cycled wood, and checking out local furniture makers who use reclaimed wood to invest in small businesses.
- Online stores
Collections of reclaimed wood furniture can be found on websites such as Etsy or in specialty furniture stores.
- Salvage yards
These sometimes are treasure troves of pristine reclaimed wood that you can then take to a local artisan to have some furniture made.
Enhance your home with timeless pieces
Reclaimed wood furniture can be more than just decoration. It’s an environmentally friendly, elegant option that adds character and history to your home. By opting for these pieces you are not only improving your environment, but collecting timeless craftsmanship.
On the hunt for a reclaimed wood find? Discover our unique collection today and own furniture that tells a tale.
FAQ
What is reclaimed wood?
Reclaimed wood is wood that has been repurposed from old buildings, barns, factories or other structures. The wood is saved… not chucked, and repurposed in a manner that truly highlights the charm of the worn timber.
Why Categories Why should I go for reclaimed wood furniture?
When sourced responsibly, reclaimed wood furniture is an environmentally friendly choice that helps to cut down on waste and lower deforestation of new trees. It also provides incomparable individuality— each plank is one-of-a-kind with various textures, tones, and a story you can add to inside your home.
What is the life expectancy of reclaimed wood furniture?
Items made from reclaimed wood are very strong and will last for centuries. Already, the wood has shown its mettle, getting more and more durable, sometimes even stronger, with the passing years. And when created by the hands of some of the best artisans, it makes for strong and lasting jewelry.
What good practices should I follow to take care of my reclaimed wood furniture?
Reclaimed wood furniture is generally easy to maintain. Wipe surfaces with a soft, damp cloth and don’t use harsh chemicals that might ruin the wood’s finish. Periodic use of furniture wax or oil makes the piece easier to clean.
Can I make upcycled reclaimed wood furniture?
Yes, that is an option some makers and artisan have. This way you can design an item that is perfectly suited to you space and personal style whilst still having the benefits of salvaged wood.
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