re-claimed timbers - Woodworking Talk

Oscar · 12-08-2008, 11:30 AM

How does one determine if antique timbers/beams etc... are worthy or sound enough for modern use?? Case in point, we collected approx 20 that are in various dimentions and lengths out of 100 + yo barns that appear to be in excellent shape but do have typical joinery cuts in place. They are nearly all yellow pine and/or douglas fir that have not been exposed to the elements. I've seen tons of these re-used and based on research they are frequently worth much more than new. However, trusting that we can safely build is always a consideration. I do feel pretty confident in their integrity but was wondering if others have a system or means to judge and rate them for use???

BHOFM · 12-08-2008, 11:54 AM

I did a mantle a couple of weeks ago from a large
beam from a barn, it looked fine until we cut a 56"
piece from an area with out notches!

It was in two pieces, it split almost the full length.
I was able to save it with some one inch dowels and
some good old titebondIII.

Look at it close if it is going to be a load bearing
structural part!

Gerry KIERNAN · 12-09-2008, 11:47 AM

Mostly, for reclaimed timbers, you are going to look for any indication of insect damage. Powder trails, bore holes, or active bugs, are dead giveaways. You are also going to look for any indication of rotting. Soft or punky wood. Check for signs of splitting. Also, consult load bearing or span tables for any you are using for structural members. The load bearing ability varies with the species. If the material appears to be sound you should be good to go. Note, that in some jurisdictions they will not allow you to use salvaged material to construct new homes, so you might want to check with your local building department to be sure you're okay.

Gerry

**Daren** · 12-09-2008, 12:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gerry KIERNAN

Note, that in some jurisdictions they will not allow you to use salvaged material to construct new homes, so you might want to check with your local building department to be sure you're okay.

I think that bears repeating. Some places won't let your build (by code) with ungraded lumber even if it is new, like wood you mill yourself from trees. Maybe it is not biggy in your area, but I would do some checking.

mics_54 · 12-09-2008, 01:16 PM

Quote:

like wood you mill yourself from trees.

unless of course you get a lumber grading certification. I know a home builder thatbuilds about 100 homes a year. He bought a saw mill and started using his own lumber to frame his homes. Not sure how it's working out for him but it shows if you got the money you can buy what you want....or bribe the people that can give it to you.

**Daren** · 12-09-2008, 01:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mics_54

unless of course you get a lumber grading certification.

Correct.

**TexasTimbers** · 12-09-2008, 07:02 PM

I don't think it is hard, or expensive, to get your own cert.