Monday, November 4, 2013

Uses For Reclaimed Barn Wood

By Alyce Powell


If you are about to embark on a new project that requires wood, you could easily take a trip to your local home improvement store and go crazy buying brand new lumber. Another option is to use supplies that have already been used for another project or building, and recycle them by using them again. One example is reclaimed barn wood, which can be used for a wide variety of projects.

Recycling lumber that has already been used for a specific purpose is sometimes referred to as upcycling if it brings the lumber to a whole new level. A good example of this might be getting planks from a barn and turning them into a new, upscale structure or project. Upcycling is a relatively new idea and term that is finally starting to gain steam as people look to reuse materials instead of always buying stuff that is brand new from retailers.

Reclaiming materials may take a little bit of prior planning, but it is fairly simple to do with a little forethought. You must look for sources in your area where old buildings or structures that aren't being used are located. You may want to check your neighborhood, but don't be afraid to explore nearby cities, towns, or suburbs to see what they have to offer. You may be pleasantly surprised by what you discover.

Of course, an abandoned building might still be on private property, so you should never just take items without permission. Be sure that you are allowed to haul away these items before you begin loading them on your vehicle. Doing so will ensure you aren't trespassing or accused of stealing.

Once you have found some materials that are good to use, crafting is one of the most popular ways to use them up. A fun project that takes a minimal amount of effort and skill is making shelving or even bookcases out of the planks. Media holders for DVDs or perhaps record albums if you are retro are also fairly easy to make and will be a decorative item nobody else has.

Something else you can take on with wooden planks is to replace or upgrade the flooring in your home. Even if you already have tile or carpet, creating a new floor with reclaimed materials will make it look unique, which could up your overall property value. If you decide to sell the home later, this up in value could be a real boon to you.

Finally, furniture is a great way to use old boards that you may have picked up. Rocking chairs are really popular with kids and adults alike and can be made relatively easy with this type of material. Tables, from coffee to dining, can also be made, even if you have only basic woodworking skills. You could conceivably furnish and entire house from just one barn if you plan ahead and use up every scrap.

There are all kinds of projects that can be done with brand new wooden planks, but perhaps you should consider using reclaimed barn wood instead. It will make everything you make with it look unique, and allows you to help the environment at the same time. It can also save you quite a bundle of money if you know where to look for this valuable scrap material.




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