Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Why To Buy Reclaimed Barn Wood Furniture

By Harriett Crosby


There are many reasons people love to buy reclaimed barn wood furniture. One of these is the history these pieces carry with them. Another is the fact that new trees do not have to be felled to make the items. These items are often beautifully crafted by experienced artisans. They add warmth and character to any living space and can be passed down from generation to generation.

The fact that the timber used for an item like a chair or a table comes with a history is appealing to many home owners. They feel that they are contributing to the preservation of a piece of the past as well as saving new trees from being cut down. The beams in old barns often came from trees that had been growing undisturbed for many years. This allowed them to develop a distinctive appearance not often found in young trees.

The stability of this timber is often better than that of new timber. This is because it has been expanding and contracting through the years in response to different weather conditions. It is also strong and durable, creating items that can survive for many years.

A buyer must make sure that they are dealing with a reputable manufacturer. There are manufacturers that deliberately age newer woods and try to pass them off as the genuine article. Manufacturers should be prepared to offer some guarantee on their products. Reading information given on websites can be helpful in ascertaining how much experience the manufacturer has.

Artisans who have experience in making these items know exactly how to work with the boards to bring out their specific character. Where the timber is sourced, how it is prepared and the construction techniques used in creating the piece all make a great difference to the value of an item. No matter how beautiful the beams, if the item is poorly constructed, it will be a disappointment.

Knowing how the beams have been treated before the item was made is also important. As they are so old, it is very possible that insects may be living inside them. Any infestations are only dealt with by exposing them to a certain degree of heat and this means that kiln drying is very important. Any old nails and other pieces of metal should have been removed after scanning with a metal detector to find them.

Many buyers love the small imperfections in the beams, such as nail holes and old tool marks. These show their history and authenticity. It is hard to fake the character that comes with time, such as the patina. The artisan needs to be able to use the characteristics of the beams to best advantage.

If you are wanting to buy reclaimed barn wood furniture, choosing a manufacturer that has built a name for quality and artistry is best. Their pieces appreciate in value over time. Prices can vary considerably, depending upon the type of wood used and other factors. Customization is offered by certain manufacturers.




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