Recycled timber is essentially repurposed wood salvaged from old structures such as buildings, bridges, wharves, or railway lines. This wood is given a new lease on life instead of ending up in a landfill or decaying away. This approach is sustainable for the environment and adds a rich history and unique character to many new constructions.
You’d be surprised at the diverse sources of recycled timber. Old buildings, barns and houses provide smaller, unique hardwoods like flooring, fascia, sarking, etc, while bridges and wharves are perfect for large, heavy beams that are impressive and rich in history. Railway lines provide used sleepers that are great for landscape applications and public spaces in the form of street furniture and cityscape applications such as bollards, wheel stops and planters. All sizes in between can be from the byproduct of processing some of the above uses, where waste is avoided wherever possible, and potential value in future uses may be found. – Never throw away a good piece of old hardwood timber!
Recycled timber can be incredibly versatile. Large beams can be used for trusses, exposed framing, or even public seating for architectural designs. In landscaping, railway sleepers are ideal for retaining walls, steps, and raised gardens. For interiors, smaller, boutique reclaimed timbers are perfect for cladding, ceilings, and other visually stunning elements. This is where the team approach is most beneficial, incorporating a client’s preferences with a designer who can interpret and envisage the finished design while being aware of the sourcing and installation requirements.
There are many reasons to choose recycled timber. Environmentally, it helps keep carbon locked up in its current state and reduces landfill waste.
It’s not always easy to use recycled timber, especially hardwood, but it is extremely rewarding when it all comes together and will be there to enjoy long-term.
Finding the right piece can be time-consuming due to rarity, so finding the right team to help you source and select can be pivotal to keeping things moving in a timely fashion.
Not all reclaimed wood is ready for use straight away – it is not an ‘off the shelf’ product!
Depending on the size and finish sought, it may require adapting or processing, which can take time, so be sure to have adequate lead time when planning.
Recycled timber is seldom used for structural purposes, so understanding design requirements early on allows for easier (and less stressful!) installation closer to build time.
Fitting rustic, reclaimed, and recycled timber can be a bit of a craft. A touch of mindfulness goes a long way in preserving often one-off pieces during the installation, as these timbers are finishing pieces, so often in highly visual areas. Don’t be shy to ask for help; perhaps allow a little extra time.
Absolutely! Using recycled timber solutions is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a durable choice. By engaging with recycled timber suppliers like Interlink early in the design process and keeping flexibility in mind, homeowners, builders, and designers can achieve stunning results while contributing to environmental conservation.
Recycled timber’s charm and sustainability make it an excellent choice for any project. Remember, the earlier you plan and consult, the better your results will be. Incorporate this eco-friendly material into your designs and build something truly unique while helping the planet.
By choosing recycled timber, you’re not just adding character to your project; you’re also positively impacting the environment. This eco-friendly material reduces waste, conserves natural resources, and brings your space a touch of history and uniqueness. Imagine incorporating a piece of a historic bridge or a vintage railway sleeper into your home – it’s not just a construction material but a conversation piece that tells a story.
When planning to use recycled timber, start by consulting with a supplier to understand the wood’s availability and characteristics. The best clients are the ones who ask, “What do you have?” Early engagement with designers and builders can help incorporate the unique features of recycled timber into your project. Flexibility is key—be open to adapting your design to accommodate the timber available, which can help avoid escalating costs and ensure a smooth construction process.
Using recycled timber is not just a sustainable choice; it’s a smart, creative, and responsible decision that reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship. So, whether you’re building a new home, renovating, or looking for unique design elements, consider the benefits and beauty of recycled timber. Embrace this sustainable movement and create something that looks good and does good for the planet. Interlink is always keen to chat through your vision and source the reclaimed timbers that are right for you.