Timber is a great material to use in the garden, it is inexpensive and versatile perfect for any garden project. From garden fencing and decking to raised plant beds you can make any DIY projects using Reclaimed wood.
When it comes to Reclaimed wood you may have lots of questions about its strength, the longevity or the safety of the wood. Find answers to these questions below plus many more of your most commonly asked questions.
What is Reclaimed wood?
Reclaimed wood is when the timber has been taken from its original location and repurposed for another use. This timber can come from old buildings such as barns, warehouses, train lines or docks. But reclaimed wood can also come from a range of other structures such as boxcars and barrels.
It is then reclaimed for use in flooring, and furnishings or outdoor projects like raised beds or pathways. One of the most common types of reclaimed wood is timber sleepers, These have been reused and repurposed in your garden to create a new structure. Sleepers can be used for a variety of garden furnishings, whether that’s steps, islands or separators. Our timber sleepers are strong and sturdy enough to withhold a large amount of weight, and with the right care, will survive winter for years on end.
How can you identify Reclaimed wood?
To authenticate reclaimed wood, look for signs of weathering and damage, such as dull appearance and old markings. Check for nail holes with irregular depth and rust staining inside the wood. You can also look for unique joint cuts and holes, like those from pegs or tenon joints which could help identify where the wood was previously used. Compare pieces for variation; authentic reclaimed wood varies, while mass-produced distressed wood is uniform. Using these several points will help you identify what the wood was previously used for and where it came from.
Is Reclaimed wood stronger than new timber?
In certain instances, aged timber can exhibit greater strength than freshly harvested wood due to factors like densification and increased hardness acquired over time. However, this assertion hinges upon several variables including the wood species, the quality of the timber, and the environmental conditions under which it was stored and utilised.
How do you preserve Reclaimed wood?
Preserving Reclaimed wood necessitates safeguarding it against further erosion from the weather and little insects while preserving its aesthetic and structural integrity. This can be accomplished through various methods including meticulous cleaning, application of sealing agents, and the use of protective coatings. Additionally, storing Reclaimed wood in a controlled environment characterised by stable humidity levels is crucial to thwart decay and potential insect damage.
Can Reclaimed wood be reused?
Certainly, Reclaimed wood frequently finds renewed utility in construction projects, furniture crafting, and other applications. Reclaimed timber holds value for its distinct character, historical significance, and environmental sustainability. Nonetheless, before repurposing Reclaimed wood effectively, it often requires thorough cleaning, meticulous sanding, and refinishing.
What are the benefits of using Reclaimed wood?
The utilisation of Reclaimed wood confers several advantages, notably imbuing spaces with a unique charm and warmth derived from its historical character. Moreover, incorporating reclaimed wood into construction projects contributes significantly to reducing the environmental impact by repurposing existing materials and conserving natural resources. Additionally, it serves to preserve the cultural heritage embodied within historic timber structures.
What are some common issues with Reclaimed wood?
Reclaimed wood commonly grapples with various issues, encompassing decay, insect infestation, warping, and dimensional instability. These challenges often arise from prolonged exposure to moisture, fluctuations in temperature and humidity, and inadequate maintenance practices. Mitigating these issues necessitates thorough inspection, meticulous treatment, and adept restoration techniques to prolong the longevity of Reclaimed wood.
How to deal with Decay & Rotting.
Assess the timber's condition thoroughly by inspecting it for signs of decay and rot, such as discolouration, soft spots, fungal growth, and insect damage. If decay or rot is present, carefully remove the affected sections using appropriate tools and cut back to healthy, sound wood to prevent further spread.
Apply a fungicidal treatment to the remaining timber to halt the progression of decay, following manufacturer instructions carefully. In cases of extensive damage or compromised structural integrity, consider replacing the affected sections with new timber, preferably pressure-treated timber or naturally decay-resistant wood.
Address underlying issues contributing to moisture buildup and poor ventilation, such as inadequate drainage or ventilation, to minimise the risk of future decay. Finish the timber with a protective coating like paint, stain, or sealant to provide an additional defence against moisture and fungal decay, and maintain the coating regularly through inspections and upkeep.
How do I check the timber’s condition?
Conduct a visual inspection by examining the timber's surface for cracks, splits, knots, discolouration, and signs of fungal growth or insect infestation. Perform a probe test using a sharp tool to gently probe the timber and identify soft or spongy areas indicative of decay or rot.
Employ a tap test by tapping the timber with a hammer or mallet to assess the sound it produces, with healthy timber emitting a solid, resonant sound. Pay attention to any unusual odours emanating from the timber, which may suggest decay, mould, or fungal growth. Measure the moisture content of the timber using a moisture meter, as elevated moisture levels can indicate a risk of decay.
Consider seeking a professional inspection by a qualified building inspector or structural engineer if unsure about the timber's condition or suspect significant damage, to receive expert assessment and recommendations for repair or replacement.
Is Reclaimed wood safe to use
The first thing you should do to all your Reclaimed wood is make sure that it has been pressure-treated to the correct level. Treated timber is classified into various levels based on the amount of protection it offers against decay and insect infestation.
The most commonly used grading system includes: Use Class 2, Use Class 3, and Use Class 4. Each timber use class corresponds to a specific level of treatment and recommended applications. To find out more about the different specs and which grading your timber should be get in touch.
All Timber Sleepers Sheffield come from certified places and all the sleepers are made with pressure-treated timber for less risk of rot and longer life expectancy.
Is Reclaimed wood cheap or expensive?!
Reclaimed wood costs more per square meter than standard wood because of the process it undergoes. Indeed, it is necessary to put in perspective the additional work required to make the wood safe for machines and, ultimately, you! Plus, all nails and other rusty parts need to be removed. All holes are to be filled and every plank worked through both machinery and manual process to give old beams a new life.
Looking to purchase some types of reclaimed wood? Get in touch with us today and we can help you through the buying process.
