Reclaimed wood is upcycled wood or those that have been recycled. These wood pieces are taken from past sources such as farms, ancient houses, barns, warehouses, factories, and retired ships, to name a few. In the construction industry today, reclaimed wood is gaining much popularity. Its character and age add to the absolute beauty and charm of something with a piece of history. For many others also, they choose reclaimed wood for its environmental benefit and even its durability. But these are only minimal reasons. There’s lots more to learn about it.
Why choose reclaimed wood wall paneling for your next project? Here are good reasons to do so:
- Better Durability
It’s a false belief to think that reclaimed wood is not at all durable. The truth is that reclaimed wood is one of the most durable in the market today. Many years back, the process of wood farming was so much different from today. One of the direct effects is that the timber from that time is of superior durability.
Reclaimed wood comes from virgin timber, coming from an uncultivated forest. Before the industrial revolution, these forests were abundant, as there was yet less air pollution. Additionally, these trees were given several more years to grow in strength and age before they were harvested. This is unlike today, where fewer trees mean that these are also farmed and harvested way before maturity.
- Environment-Friendly
Reclaimed wood also means recycled wood. Taken from old homes, barns, and other sources, these are pieces of wood that would’ve otherwise been left wasted and unused. By choosing to purchase reclaimed wood for your wall paneling, you’re giving it a new life. You still have a source of timber for your panels, without having to buy from newer trees.
With this option, you’re starting the bandwagon of reducing the demand for young trees to be cut down. Remember that when one tree is cut, this affects the ecosystem. Animals that depend on trees for their food and shelter lose this. Then, there are lesser trees to suck water for flood prevention. The list goes on and on.
- Adds Warmth And Texture In A Room
In the room where you are to do reclaimed wood wall paneling, you’re also effectively adding in warmth and texture. What would otherwise have been plain space now has a cozier vibe to it? The smell and warmth that real wood brings give out a cozy feel to a room.
Plus, reclaimed wood also is preserved in its best state. This means that no two pieces are exactly alike. Each piece has its patterns, holes, and other elements as the wood naturally ages in time. This gives a natural element of texture also to the room. It’s an investment that makes a big visual impact on the room.
- Adding A Piece Of History
Reclaimed wood possibly has decades to hundreds of years worth of history on its belt. This makes your wood wall panel even more interesting. Right there in your home, you’re able to preserve a piece of history. This makes for a good conversation piece. How often is it that you can say that your wood comes from an old barn? Perhaps even a ship that’s now retired? This makes your home unique from others.
- Cheaper Option
Buying wood today can be very expensive. Precisely so as the source is also scarce. The lesser trees there are, the fewer wood products are also present in the market. But, if you’re keen on having wood wall panels in your home, a cheaper alternative is to use reclaimed wood. This isn’t because the quality is inferior, as higher durability is guaranteed. But, reclaimed wood is recycled. This makes it cheaper than having to buy pricier, brand new wood today.
- Rare And Unique Piece
There’s no one else in the world that’s going to have those pieces of reclaimed wood that you’re buying from an old farm in your local area. Perhaps this is one from the early 1900s. That’s something that you won’t see for sale in timber farms today as reclaimed wood is also rare and scarce in itself. Only very few farms, such as Manomin Resawn Timbers, may have reclaimed wood.
This reclaimed wood comes from old-growth forests. These are tree sources that are larger and stronger. However, today, old-growth forests are now being protected. This means that you can no longer buy brand new wood from old-growth forests. The only way for you to have this is through the option of reclaimed wood.
Because it’s also a rare and unique piece, a very important piece of advice to remember is never to attempt to do this installation or household repair by yourself. Always have an expert help you out. That way, you’re sure not to damage the wood.
Conclusion
People generally love trees. There’s an added charm and coziness to having trees around the property. Because trees can’t be indoors, an alternative in design aspects has wood design elements. This is precisely why reclaimed wood is a popular choice for wood paneling. These enumerated above are only some of the few great reasons. It gives your home that added rustic look that connects it with the present natural environment of trees, plus the history of the past. Not to mention, too, that reclaimed wood is one of the most durable in the market today.
