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Guides, stories, and insights from our team — helping you build better with reclaimed wood.

EducationBehind the ScenesSustainabilityWood SpeciesInspirationCompany NewsHow-ToBuying GuideHistoryProjectsIndustry
Inspiration

Winter Project Ideas With Reclaimed Wood

Cold weather keeping you indoors? Here are ten inspiring projects you can tackle with reclaimed lumber this winter, from simple weekend builds to ambitious renovations.

Sarah Chen··5 min read
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Education6 min read

Why Reclaimed Lumber Is Stronger Than You Think

Old-growth timber was harvested from forests that grew slowly over centuries. The result? Wood that's denser, tighter-grained, and in many cases structurally superior to what you'll find at a modern lumber yard.

Marcus Holt
Behind the Scenes8 min read

How We Source Reclaimed Wood From Iowa Barns

Iowa's agricultural heritage left behind thousands of barns built with locally milled hardwood. Here's how we carefully deconstruct these structures and salvage their incredible timber.

Marcus Holt
Sustainability5 min read

5 Ways Reclaimed Wood Reduces Your Carbon Footprint

Building with reclaimed lumber doesn't just look good — it's one of the most impactful choices you can make for the environment. Here are five concrete ways it helps.

Elena Rivera
Wood Species7 min read

Reclaimed Heart Pine: The Wood That No Longer Exists

Longleaf pine once covered 90 million acres of the American South. Today, less than 3% of those forests remain. Reclaimed heart pine is the only way to access this extraordinary wood.

James Whitfield
Education4 min read

Understanding Board Foot Measurements: A Practical Guide

Board feet can be confusing if you're used to buying lumber by the linear foot. Here's a clear, practical guide to understanding how reclaimed lumber is measured and priced.

Amy Larsen
Education5 min read

The Difference Between Kiln-Dried and Air-Dried Lumber

Kiln drying and air drying both have their place in lumber processing. Understanding the difference is essential when working with reclaimed wood.

James Whitfield
Company News4 min read

Our New Solar Installation: Powering Sustainability Forward

We've completed installation of a 60kW solar array at our Mason City facility, now providing 40% of our electricity needs.

Elena Rivera
How-To6 min read

How to Finish Reclaimed Wood Flooring: Tips From Our Mill

Finishing reclaimed flooring requires a different approach than new wood. Here are our recommendations for getting the best results while preserving the character you're paying for.

James Whitfield
Buying Guide5 min read

What to Look for When Buying Reclaimed Beams

Reclaimed beams are stunning, but not all are created equal. Here's what to evaluate before committing to a purchase — from checking and cracks to hidden metal.

Tom Bradley
Company News3 min read

Spring 2024 Inventory Update: What's New in Our Yard

A fresh wave of material has arrived from three new salvage projects. Here's what we've added to our inventory this spring.

Sarah Chen
History7 min read

Midwest Barn Architecture: A Brief History

The barns we source lumber from aren't just structures — they're artifacts of American agricultural history. Here's a look at the architectural traditions that built them.

Marcus Holt
Sustainability5 min read

How Reclaimed Wood Earns LEED Credits for Your Building

Using reclaimed materials can contribute significantly to LEED certification. Here's exactly which credits apply and how to document your reclaimed lumber for maximum benefit.

Elena Rivera
Company News3 min read

Why We Don't Have a Phone Number (And Why That's Better for You)

Yes, we're a business without a phone line. Here's why that decision actually results in better service for our customers.

Marcus Holt
Industry6 min read

Sustainable Building Trends We're Watching in 2024

From mass timber construction to circular economy principles, the building industry is shifting toward sustainability. Here's what we're seeing and where reclaimed lumber fits in.

Elena Rivera
Behind the Scenes4 min read

De-Nailing Reclaimed Lumber: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Hidden metal in reclaimed wood can destroy saw blades, ruin projects, and even cause injuries. Our de-nailing process is one of the most critical steps in our operation.

James Whitfield
Wood Species5 min read

Comparing Reclaimed Oak Species: White Oak vs. Red Oak

White oak and red oak are our two most common reclaimed species. They look similar but behave very differently. Here's what you need to know.

James Whitfield
Projects5 min read

Reclaimed Lumber in Commercial Restaurant Design

Restaurants are one of the most popular applications for reclaimed wood. Here's why designers love it and what to consider for code compliance.

Amy Larsen
Projects6 min read

Customer Spotlight: The Clear Lake Farmhouse Renovation

When a young family bought an 1890s farmhouse near Clear Lake, they wanted to honor its heritage. Over 4,000 board feet of our reclaimed oak made that vision a reality.

Amy Larsen
Buying Guide6 min read

The True Cost of Reclaimed vs. New Lumber

Reclaimed lumber costs more per board foot than new — but the total cost picture is more nuanced than the price tag suggests. Here's an honest comparison.

Sarah Chen
Inspiration5 min read

Reclaimed Wood Accent Walls: Design Tips From Real Installations

An accent wall can transform a room — but the details matter. Here are design principles we've learned from hundreds of installations.

Amy Larsen
Behind the Scenes5 min read

How We Grade Reclaimed Lumber: Our Quality System Explained

Standard grading rules don't quite fit reclaimed wood. Here's how we developed our own grading system to give customers clear expectations.

James Whitfield
How-To4 min read

Preparing Your Site for a Reclaimed Lumber Delivery

Proper receiving and storage of reclaimed lumber protects your investment and ensures the best results. Here's our delivery preparation checklist.

Tom Bradley
Wood Species6 min read

The Story Behind American Chestnut Lumber

The chestnut blight of the early 1900s wiped out billions of trees. Today, the only American chestnut lumber available is reclaimed — and it's extraordinarily special.

Marcus Holt
Buying Guide5 min read

Choosing the Right Reclaimed Wood for Outdoor Projects

Not all reclaimed wood is suitable for outdoor use. Here's how to select species and grades that will perform well when exposed to the elements.

James Whitfield

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