Something Old, Something New: The Advantages of Using Recycled Wood

• Style/design: There’s no question that distressed or recycled wood has been and continues to be a desired look and trend.  When clientele look for wood flooring, they generally like the character you can get from recycled wood.

• Environmentally friendly: By using recycled wood, you certainly reduce waste that would be going into landfills. Additionally, you eliminate the need to cut down existing trees for milling into new flooring.

• Durability: Trees harvested years ago tend to have tighter grain, which leaves them harder and denser. As such, recycled wood tends to be more durable than brand new floors, which helps reduce dents and scratches. Our floor finishes, like two-component clear waterbased urethane StreetShoe® NXT, can also increase durability by adding a layer of sacrificial protection!  StreetShoe NXT is available in 4 sheens: Gloss, Semi-Gloss, Satin, and Super Matte to satisfy any design need.

Where you can find recycled wood for hardwood flooring?

• Many times, old wood is found from property demolitions. Oak, cherry and chestnut are common woods found in old properties, and they all make great choices for hardwood floor. This wood is often bought by specialty buyers and then resold to end users for personal use.

• There are a number of manufacturers that specialize in reclaiming wood.   Ask your local contractor or wood flooring distributor about their recycled wood options.

As the old saying goes, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure!” But what should you watch out for? 

• Bug damage: Bugs will often be killed in the kiln-drying process; however, there can still be bug damage. When using recycled wood, some designers actually desire the look you can get from bug-damaged wood.  Whether you desire that look or not, make sure a qualified professional does a full inspection of the materials to check for loss of density and strength from insects prior to installation.

• Length versus width versus thickness: Generally speaking, a professional wood flooring contractor can install just about anything anywhere if you can control the environment.  This includes short and thick, long and thin, and everything in between.  For the most part, as the flooring gets wider and thinner, it is less stable. 

• Species: Obviously, the type of wood species plays a significant role in the look and performance of flooring.  Refer to the NWFA (National Wood Flooring Association) Wood Species Used in Wood Flooring Manual, as it gives all the specifics and options. 

Real hardwood floors are a great option, but a recycled wood floor can be a “greener” option.  Regardless of your choice, Basic Coatings is the expert in staining, sealing, finishing, and maintaining your hardwood floor!  Please go to www.basiccoatings.com for ideas and complete product information.