Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Reclaimed Wood Constructions For Our Buildings Today

By Nancy Gardner


Theres always ways for us to be aware of the environment. Global warming and other factors cause us to change our habits. We understand now that all the modernization has created a toxic world and this is not good for us as a population.

The building industry has been affected. Reclaimed wood constructions are now popular. These come from lumber that has been previously used. They come from older structures like barns and factories. It gives the wood a new life when we find ways to include it in new buildings.

To reuse something does not make it lesser quality. It is a way to have less waste. By using something you are extending its life. Less trees will be milled if we can use older lumber.

Old planks of lumber can be reused successfully. The main reason for this is that the material used in older buildings is better quality than the lumber that exists today. Before using anything for structural purposes it must pass an engineering check. All metal parts must be removed. It needs should be checked for presence of lead that can be toxic. If it will be used for decorative purposes, it does not need to be tested.

Lighting fixtures can be given a rewire and modern upgrade. For electric devices and other appliances, it would probably be better to stick with the modern conveniences. Older machines usually dont work as well nor are they fully compatible to modern times. When it comes to technology, it is smarter to stick with something new.

A reason for the growing fad of reusing old construction supplies is that many think it will cost less. They do not factor in the labor for deconstruction. It also takes time for prepping and restoring for the salvaged items to become reusable.

While it would be amazing to be able to have a whole place made from reused items, that might not be possible. You could end up spending a lot. Being eco conscious means you should buy locally whenever possible. The cost of shipping huge pieces would be quite high. So as much as possible source the old items from your city. When you go into a junk yard you might not be able to find any material. A lot of patience and time will be needed to get good things you can actually use.

Do the right planning. Make sure you are following the codes and standards of your city. Get the best quality and do not compromise safety. It will require patience to source the pieces. Once you have the pieces you need to get it processed to be usable.

Being an advocate for the world is not just a fad anymore. It is not only the hippies who want to save Mother Earth by recycling. Its everyones job to each do their own part in making a contribution to lessening the pollution and slowing down global warming. Everyone can find a way to recycle and reuse so that there is less thrown out.




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