What is reclaimed wood flooring? Reclaimed wood salvaged from old buildings, such as barns, factories, and warehouses, is cleaned, de-nailed, kiln-dried, and milled into tongue and groove flooring planks. The final product can be solid, engineered, unfinished, or pre-finished. Reclaimed wood flooring will exhibit natural beauty and historical character. Typically, reclaimed wood floors have evidence of prior use with the appearance of nail holes, mineral stains, insect scarring, fastener marks, and aged patina.
What are the advantages of using reclaimed wood flooring? Reclaimed wood flooring has several benefits, including being environmentally friendly, having a unique and rustic appearance, and being more durable and stable than new wood. Reclaimed wood flooring will add warmth and character to any interior design.
Do I need to acclimate reclaimed wood flooring before installing it? Yes. Here are a few National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) guidelines for acclimating reclaimed wood flooring (not a complete list):
The wood should be placed in the room where it will be installed for at least 72 hours before installation.
The room should be maintained at a consistent temperature and humidity level, with the temperature between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity between 30-50%.
The wood should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources, and areas with high humidity.The wood should be allowed to acclimate until it reaches equilibrium with the room's environment.
Please refer to NWFA Installation and Acclimation Guidelines to ensure that the wood is correctly acclimated before installation. These tips can help prevent problems like warping or splitting after installing the flooring.
Is reclaimed wood flooring more expensive than new wood flooring? Reclaimed wood flooring can be more expensive than new wood flooring. Salvaging reclaimed wood from old structures is labor-intensive and time-consuming. The raw lumber harvested from abandoned buildings has been previously used. It may require more cleaning, milling, and finishing before a manufacturer can make it into beautiful wood flooring worthy of installation in a house or business. Additionally, the supply of reclaimed wood is often limited, which can increase the price.
What are the differences between solid wood flooring and engineered wood flooring, and is high-quality engineered wood flooring superior to solid wood? Solid wood flooring is made of 100% solid wood, whereas engineered wood flooring is made from several layers of wood, with a top layer of natural wood veneer. Our high-quality engineered wood flooring wear layer is 4mm to 6mm thick and applied to a high-density Baltic birch plywood core. One significant advantage of engineered wood flooring is that it is more stable than solid wood, which means it is less likely to expand or contract due to changes in humidity and temperature. The added stability of engineered wood flooring makes it a good choice for rooms prone to moisture, such as basements, or installation over concrete slabs. Another advantage of engineered wood is that more versatile to install because your installer can glue it down, float it over an existing subfloor, or nail it down using staples or cleats. In contrast, solid wood must only be nailed or stapled to the plywood subfloor. Some people prefer the feel and look of solid wood flooring over engineered wood flooring, even if they are of equal quality. Ultimately, the choice between solid wood flooring and engineered wood flooring may come from personal preference. If you prefer one type of flooring over the other, that may be your deciding factor. Also, consult your professional flooring installer, and refer to the NWFA Installation and Acclimation Guidelines.
What types of hardwood flooring do you offer? We offer various hardwood flooring options, including custom milling, wide plank, engineered, solid wood options, and custom finishes. All of our reclaimed wood and new wood flooring are eco-friendly. Species we offer include oak, hickory, beech, maple, Douglas fir, heart pine, black walnut, French Oak, and more.
How do I maintain and care for my hardwood floors? Regular maintenance includes sweeping or vacuuming, using specific hardwood floor cleaners, and avoiding excessive moisture. We can provide detailed care instructions for all our flooring options.
What areas do you serve for hardwood flooring projects? We proudly serve the North Bay Area, including Sonoma, Marin, and Napa counties, as well as all of California, Nationwide and globally. Contact us to discuss your project and schedule a consultation.
What are reclaimed wood beams? Reclaimed wood beams are salvaged from old structures like barns, factories, and warehouses. They are repurposed for new construction or renovation projects and offer a unique, rustic aesthetic.
Can reclaimed wood beams be used structurally? Most of the time, reclaimed wood beams are offered primarily for decorative purposes and are not recommended for structural use. While some reclaimed wood beams can be graded by a certified grader for structural integrity, it is essential to consult with your local building codes, architect, engineer, or builder before considering reclaimed beams for structural applications. This ensures compliance with safety standards and regulations specific to your project.
How do I choose the correct reclaimed wood beams for my project? Choosing the right reclaimed wood beams for your project depends on the architectural design and desired aesthetic.
For a rustic or traditional look, reclaimed antique hand-hewn beams are ideal. These beams, often from old barns and structures, feature a unique, hand-crafted appearance with historical charm.
Reclaimed Douglas fir beams with aged patina are an excellent choice if you prefer a smoother, aged appearance. These beams offer a warm, weathered look that complements contemporary and classic designs.
For a versatile and lighter option, consider reclaimed wood box beams. These hollow beams can cover existing structures or serve as decorative elements. They are perfect for achieving the look of solid wood beams without weight and are suitable for various architectural styles.
It's essential to consider the structural requirements and consult with your architect, engineer, or builder to ensure the chosen beams meet your project's needs and local building codes and are graded by a certified grader.
What is reclaimed wood siding and paneling? Hard-working deconstruction crews hand-select and reclaim wood from historic buildings, barns, and other structures to craft siding and paneling that exude rustic charm and preserve the wood's rich history. This eco-friendly option offers unique siding and paneling choices for homes and businesses, adding a touch of timeless beauty and historic character to any space.
What types of reclaimed wood do you offer for siding and paneling? We offer a variety of reclaimed wood types, including antique barn wood, weathered gray boards, mixed hardwoods, pine, hemlock, oak, and reclaimed Douglas fir. Each type has its unique look and character.
Can reclaimed wood siding and paneling be used for interior and exterior applications? Reclaimed wood siding and paneling are incredibly versatile, suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Whether you're looking to add a rustic touch to your living room or a unique facade to your business, our products can meet your needs. However, proper treatment, acclimation, and maintenance are required for exterior use to ensure longevity and durability. Black's Farmwood offers custom milling of reclaimed wood siding and paneling, such as shiplap or T&G, to accommodate the proper application.
Why don't you offer online shopping for your wood products? At Black’s Farmwood, we specialize in custom, sustainable wood products. We believe that choosing the right wood for your home or project is a highly personalized process—one that goes beyond what an online store can offer. Each piece of wood has its unique grain, texture, and character, and these details are best appreciated in person. By visiting our showroom, you’ll experience the quality of our hardwood floors, reclaimed wood, and custom wood solutions firsthand, with guidance from our knowledgeable team. While many businesses find success with an online store, we’ve discovered that our focus on craftsmanship, sustainability, and custom woodwork is best served through direct interaction. Our customers appreciate our expert consultation and tailored advice, which helps them make informed decisions based on their specific needs. However, we are always looking for ways to enhance the customer experience and are open to change. If an online store can meet the high standards we set for personalized service, it’s something we may consider in the future. For those unable to visit our North Bay showroom, we offer personalized consultations by phone, email, or LiveChat, ensuring you still receive the expertise and attention to detail we’re known for. By working with us, you’re not just purchasing wood—you’re partnering with a team dedicated to delivering custom, sustainable wood products designed to fit your vision.
What is Accoya® wood, and why is it better than other types of wood? Accoya® is a high-performance modified wood created through an advanced acetylation process that enhances its durability, stability, and resistance to moisture, rot, and insects. Unlike traditional hardwoods or pressure-treated wood, Accoya is non-toxic, dimensionally stable, and sustainably sourced. It is ideal for exterior applications such as decking, siding, and windows because it does not swell, shrink, or warp like other woods.
How long does Accoya last, and does it come with a warranty? Accoya wood is one of the longest-lasting wood products available, with a 50-year warranty for above-ground use and a 25-year warranty for in-ground or freshwater applications. Unlike untreated wood, Accoya resists rot, fungal decay, and insect damage, making it a superior alternative to tropical hardwoods and chemically treated lumber. Its exceptional durability means it often outperforms traditional options like teak, cedar, and ipe. Is Accoya wood environmentally friendly and sustainable? Yes! Accoya is FSC®-certified and sourced from responsibly managed forests, making it one of the most sustainable wood options. Unlike chemically treated woods, Accoya undergoes a non-toxic acetylation process that does not introduce harmful chemicals, making it safe for homes, schools, and playgrounds. It has a low carbon footprint and can be recycled or repurposed at the end of its life, offering a greener alternative to tropical hardwoods and composite materials.
