Reclaimed barn wood has become very popular today for a variety of reasons. One of these is that there is no longer an abundant supply of timber. In fact, some materials used for construction of barns are no longer available in their natural state today. Other reasons for its popularity are its strength, stability, beauty and history.
Barns were usually built from trees growing in the vicinity such as oaks, poplars and chestnuts. These trees had often been growing for centuries, untouched by man or pollution. The timber was cut by hand and the size of a beam depended on what could be transported by man or horse.
This old timber is wonderfully unique and homeowners appreciate its distinctive character. No two pieces are exactly the same and the differences in color and texture as well as other features like worm holes and knots all contribute towards a feeling of authenticity and history. Beams are used in ways that show off these distinct features.
These old beams have survived through the years and been subjected to all kinds of weather. Their age gives them a stability not found in new timber. They are less likely to distort or twist as they have had plenty of opportunity to become seasoned through years of expanding and contracting.
The increased focus on environmental issues in recent years has also had an impact on its popularity. In our world of over-forestation and diminishing natural resources, using a recycled product helps to reduce the need for virgin timber. The processing also has less impact on the environment than new timber that still has to be felled, transported and processed.
A valuable source of high quality, tight grained timber is often found in these old beams. Commercial forestry today emphasizes rapid tree growth and trees are not often allowed to grow to full maturity like the trees from which these old beams were obtained. However, to get the best out of this recycled timber it has to be treated correctly. It should be clean and devoid of any hidden nails. Nails and pieces of metal can be rusty and lead to tetanus. Another important step is kiln-drying. This dries it out thoroughly and prevents termites or other infestations from being brought into the home.
As there is a great demand for these products, there are companies falsely claiming to be selling recycled timber. This is why it is very important to use a reputable dealer. A reputable dealer has no problem proving authenticity of the timber being sold and offering guarantees on products.
When it comes right down to it, no matter how environmentally friendly, historic, high quality or full of character reclaimed barn wood is, if it was not beautiful, it would not be used. Architects, designers and homeowners alike appreciate its vintage look and flooring, furniture and paneling are transformed by its beauty. Using such beams is sure to add value to any home.
Barns were usually built from trees growing in the vicinity such as oaks, poplars and chestnuts. These trees had often been growing for centuries, untouched by man or pollution. The timber was cut by hand and the size of a beam depended on what could be transported by man or horse.
This old timber is wonderfully unique and homeowners appreciate its distinctive character. No two pieces are exactly the same and the differences in color and texture as well as other features like worm holes and knots all contribute towards a feeling of authenticity and history. Beams are used in ways that show off these distinct features.
These old beams have survived through the years and been subjected to all kinds of weather. Their age gives them a stability not found in new timber. They are less likely to distort or twist as they have had plenty of opportunity to become seasoned through years of expanding and contracting.
The increased focus on environmental issues in recent years has also had an impact on its popularity. In our world of over-forestation and diminishing natural resources, using a recycled product helps to reduce the need for virgin timber. The processing also has less impact on the environment than new timber that still has to be felled, transported and processed.
A valuable source of high quality, tight grained timber is often found in these old beams. Commercial forestry today emphasizes rapid tree growth and trees are not often allowed to grow to full maturity like the trees from which these old beams were obtained. However, to get the best out of this recycled timber it has to be treated correctly. It should be clean and devoid of any hidden nails. Nails and pieces of metal can be rusty and lead to tetanus. Another important step is kiln-drying. This dries it out thoroughly and prevents termites or other infestations from being brought into the home.
As there is a great demand for these products, there are companies falsely claiming to be selling recycled timber. This is why it is very important to use a reputable dealer. A reputable dealer has no problem proving authenticity of the timber being sold and offering guarantees on products.
When it comes right down to it, no matter how environmentally friendly, historic, high quality or full of character reclaimed barn wood is, if it was not beautiful, it would not be used. Architects, designers and homeowners alike appreciate its vintage look and flooring, furniture and paneling are transformed by its beauty. Using such beams is sure to add value to any home.
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