What are the disadvantages of reclaimed wood cabinets?

Reclaimed wood cabinets can be expensive compared to modern, lower quality products. It's possible the wood was treated with harmful paints or toxins in the past, so it should be tested. Pests can also infest older wood and be challenging to manage.

What are the advantages of reclaimed wood cabinets?

Reclaimed wood cabinets help decrease the demand for newly sourced lumber. They are long-lasting and durable because of the quality of timber used to construct them. Reclaimed wood has a unique and beautiful look that can provide character to your home.

Is salvaged wood safe to use for cabinets?

Salvaged wood is safe to use for cabinets, but make sure to avoid wood that contains lead paint.

Does reclaimed cabinetry last as long as newly manufactured cabinets?

Reclaimed cabinets are made from solid wood and are often much better quality than newly manufactured cabinets. It's common for newer manufactured cabinets to be made from MDF, an engineered wood composite that is cheaper and of a much lower quality than solid reclaimed wood.

Are salvaged wood cabinets durable?

Salvaged wood comes from wood products that were built in the past, often using only the most durable trees that grew for many years, without being impacted by humans. Cabinets made from salvaged wood are very durable and will last many years.

Where can you source reclaimed wood for cabinetry?

Reclaimed wood can be found from a number of places. Check local antique shops, or contact construction companies that specialize in remodeling older homes in your area. Also, search for local online platforms where people exchange goods and services. You can connect with people in your community and even post a "wanted" ad for a particular type of reclaimed wood.

Can salvaged wood be used for cabinets?

Salvaged wood is known for its durability and can be used to make cabinets that have a unique and beautiful look.

Learn about Salvaged Wood Cabinet

Salvaged wood cabinets are made from salvaged or reclaimed wood. The most common example is cabinetry made with old barn boards. Cabinets made with old wood can have a unique and beautiful look!

Source the wood as locally as possible so you know the story of the wood and to reduce the energy required to transport it to the building site.

As well, look for wood with little or no previous finish on it, especially avoiding paints that may be lead-based.

Reusing wood reduces our impact on forest ecosystems and makes use of a waste product.

The City of Portland, Oregon, USA passed an ordinance in 2016 requiring all homes that are being demolished, that were built before 1916, to be deconstructed carefully so the materials can be reused. They expect to divert over 4,000 tons of waste from landfill per year with this new law.