What is Reclaimed Lumber?

Reclaimed lumber is usable wood salvaged from one use to another.  Most of this lumber was originally milled from trees that were growing wild before the advent of the monoculture tree farms of today. This old growth timber grew with tight internal rings, resulting in wood that was dense and strong. Decades ago it was readily available in much of the West. At the time it was the perfect building material for homes, barns and factories.

What Makes Reclaimed Lumber Unique?

For decades, this wood has been subject to weather, manure, chemicals or smoke, causing the cell structure to change. Not all reclaimed lumber has the same qualities and characteristics. Some of the most striking reclaimed lumber comes from old buildings, where the wood has had time to age naturally and change or develop colors. 

Where Do We Get Reclaimed Lumber?

Vintage reclaimed lumber is becoming increasingly rare. Today, old growth lumber is "harvested"  from 100-year-old buildings. Just as there is little old growth timber left to harvest, the salvageable wood in older homes, barns, and warehouses is becoming a thing of the past. Fires, demolition and deconstruction also have made quality reclaimed lumber a limited resource, and therefore prized for its beauty, strength and historic provenance.

At Merrill Bradshaw Carpentry, we nurture the aged characteristics of each piece of wood by combining design, craftsmanship and an appreciation of history, creating one-of-a kind furniture and display pieces.