Wednesday, 19 August 2015

Reclaimed Wood Constructions For Our Buildings Today

By Nancy Gardner


The growing concern for the environment has led to many changes in certain industries. Pollution and waste are being lessened. Generally people would like to be as ecofriendly as they can. So by recycling and reusing materials this is done.

Recycling is not a new thing. It has been promoted for years. In the housing industry, using reclaimed wood constructions is a way of reusing old material. Old lumber and steel from buildings that have closed down and have been demolished can be saved and given a new use.

To reuse something does not make it lesser quality. It is a way to have less waste. By using something you are extending its life. Less trees will be milled if we can use older lumber.

Older structures are torn down to make way for something modern. While designs may have changed, there is still the fact that older buildings had some very good quality materials. The kind of lumber found before is rare now. Its this sought after quality that make recycling to appealing. If it can pass the safety standards like not having lead and being structurally sound, there is absolutely a lot you can do even with fifty year old lumber planks. There is a long processing that takes place. Any metal and nails have to be removed. These older pieces can also be used for decorations if a vintage aesthetic is wanted.

Old water heaters and furnaces are some things that cant be used. Old lighting fixtures can be rewired and upgraded but there are some electric devices that are just not compatible in our current times. There is probably not as much use for older electronics because they do become obsolete and outdated.

You might think that using old material is more cost effective. That is not always the case. You may be able to source them from scrapyards and junk yards but it will require careful processing and prepping for it to be usable.

Another thing is you might think you are saving the environment by repurposing used items but you have to think about the labor costs and where it is from. If you are flying in items from across the world, that is not as economic as buying new material locally. Choose from nearby places when you want to search things you can use. Also you must take note that it isnt easy to locate usable lumber. It might be hard to find several pieces that are the same so patience is needed.

Do the right planning. Make sure you are following the codes and standards of your city. Get the best quality and do not compromise safety. It will require patience to source the pieces. Once you have the pieces you need to get it processed to be usable.

Promoting environmental awareness is good for the community. As much as possible buy locally. There is something everyone can do. One small change, one person who recycles can actually make a difference.




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