Have you Considered the Benefits of Recycled Timber Furniture?

When we look at fashions and trends, we can see that most materials follow a cyclical trend with some materials disappearing now, only to make a comeback years later. But, timber has consistently beaten this phenomenon and has remained popular for all specifications in homes and around homes. Timber decking and floorboards continue to be installed in every home renovation and new home settings. Across the world, the demand for timber is only rising every day. Consequently, there is great strain on natural resource and though systems do exist to regulate and monitor the forests, illegal logging of hardwood for financial gain by unscrupulous elements continues unabated. Some timber suppliers have therefore been motivated to find recycled timber from construction sites and old buildings as a valuable source for hardwood timber that would otherwise have been wasted. Let us first understand some of the basics about reclaimed timber furniture.

Why recycled timber demand is growing

Older timbers have better definition and more character compared to younger timber harvested from forests and has better stability because of years of natural seasoning that recycled timbers have gone through. From an environmental view point too, people are more likely to be inclined towards recycled products for their offices and homes.

What is the source of recycled timber?

Recycled timber come from multiple sources including wool stores, shearing sheds, bridges, warehouses, factories, derelict and old buildings, mills etc. The process of extracting wood from these sites is labour intensive and can take several months to decide if the timber can be used.

How is timber recycled

Once the timber arrives at a recycling factory, metal bolts, nails and other impediments lodged in the timber is removed which again is labour intensive. After this, the timber is dried and made into plans before skimming. Further drying and skimming may be needed depending on the quality of timber being recycled.

What is the duration of the drying process?

Reaction to moisture is distinct with individual pieces and it could depend on the extent of exposure they have had to weather and other elements of nature. Therefore the drying process can consume anything from 3 to 6 months. At the end of the drying process, the timber is ready for milling and made into flooring sections provided with tongue and groove joinery.

What species do recycled timbers belong to?

Most manufacturers of recycled timber stock a wide array of species. However, most of the reclaimed older timber cannot be identified as cross pollination occurs between species in areas that are heavily wooded and that make classification very difficult.

How to select timber floor

An excellent starting point for selecting timber floor is the show room of the seller. It may not be in your best interests to be guided entirely by the species since different timbers from identical species may look different in colour. You need to consider several elements aside colour and should include originality, hardness, environment, climate and individuality.

How a recycled timber floor is laid

This is relatively easy and all that is needed is your furnishing an estimate of the area that needs to be covered. A representative from the seller then visits you and provides you with a quote.

For an in-depth understanding of your needs, you should visit Recycled Timber Furniture and discuss your requirements with them. Seeing recycled timber furniture with your naked eyes is the best way to determine that you are getting value for money.

Now we turn to some of the important characteristics and features of reclaimed timber furniture

Features

Every species of wood is made beautiful by its natural characteristics making them desirable for a range of furniture. But, in the case of reclaimed timber, the surface has suffered natural ageing and its weather beaten appearance presents a unique texture which cannot be replicated with new timber. Noticeable imperfections should be expected with reclaimed timber furniture and you may even find uneven surface and arks. But, we should be able to appreciate the features as they add authenticity and a unique character for the reclaimed timber furniture. You can expect many natural features in reclaimed timber furniture and some of them are:-

Variations

Reclaimed timber means it comes from various sources and has natural features of varying degrees. Therefore, you should expect shade variation and the grains can be different from one part of the product to the other and that makes every piece truly unique. Thus, for example if you were buying 4 chairs made of reclaimed timber all 4 will appear differently in terms of texture, colour and overall appearance though all of them may belong to the same design.

Thus, for instance, when you are buying 6 chairs in reclaimed wood, all 6 chairs will have different appearance in terms of colour, texture and general appearance though the design part may be identical.

Strength and durability

Reclaimed timber means, it has been through a number of seasons making it very strong and dense compared to newly harvested wood. However working with reclaimed timber is very hard and therefore time consuming.

Before you go shopping

Before you step out to shop for reclaimed timber furniture, make sure you are never in a hurry. Choosing reclaimed timber furniture calls for loads of patience and potentially you will make several trips before you decide on what appeals to you finally.

Should be the right fit for your space

Do not expect reclaimed timber furniture to conform to standard sizes. Therefore, after identifying the perfect piece of reclaimed timber furniture, measure the furniture and see if it can fit the space that is ear marked. When you are measuring the ear marked space in your home, also ensure to leave some space for mobility of your acquisition. Alternatively, if you are carrying the exact measurement of the space available, your supplier will be happy to work with you to make sure that the size of the furniture you select is the right fit for the space