In the early years in our industry we were often asked what we mean when we say “recycled” wood. We were often met with the perception that it meant grinding up wood and mixing it with plastic to make fake decking or burning it for power generation. To counter this misperception, we began using the term “reclaimed” wood, meaning that it is being re-used in some semblance of its original form. However, most applications require some level of re-manufacturing or milling, and some waste.

We have come to appreciate that the highest and best use of old wood occurs with “re-purposing”, where the wood is used in its original form, often as a building identical or very similar to the original structure. This can mean using structural elements such as post and beams, trusses and decking or it can mean using siding, paneling and flooring in its original form.