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Project spotlights, how-to guides, sustainability insights, and news from our team.
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“Every board we reclaim is a step toward a greener Los Angeles.”
— Rafael Cortez, Founder
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Reclaimed Oak Flooring Transforms a 1920s Silver Lake Bungalow
How a couple salvaged century-old oak beams and turned them into stunning wide-plank flooring for their Craftsman-style home.
Why LA Demolitions Are a Goldmine for Reclaimed Wood
Los Angeles tears down thousands of structures every year. Inside those walls lies some of the finest lumber ever milled in America.
By Rafael CortezHow We Grade Reclaimed Lumber: Our Quality Standards
Not all reclaimed wood is equal. Learn about the grading system we use to ensure every board meets the highest standards.
By Priya SharmaBuilding a Backyard Deck with Salvaged Redwood
One of our customers built an incredible backyard deck using redwood salvaged from a Pasadena church. Here's the full story.
By Luca FerrettiThe Carbon Math: Reclaimed vs. New Lumber
We did the numbers on the carbon footprint of reclaimed lumber compared to new. The results surprised even us.
By Mei-Lin TaoA Complete Guide to Finishing Reclaimed Lumber
From raw reclaimed boards to a beautiful finished surface — everything you need to know about finishing salvaged wood.
By Kwame AsanteWhy Every New LA Restaurant Wants Reclaimed Wood
From Highland Park to Venice, reclaimed wood has become the defining material in Los Angeles restaurant design.
By Luca FerrettiHidden Dangers in Reclaimed Wood: What You Need to Know
Reclaimed wood is wonderful, but it can harbor lead paint, pesticides, and other hazards. Here's how to stay safe.
By Priya SharmaArchitect Spotlight: Designing with Reclaimed Timber Beams
We sat down with LA architect Solange Mwangi to discuss how she incorporates reclaimed structural beams into modern residential design.
By Rafael Cortez10 Tips for Installing Reclaimed Barn Wood Siding
Barn wood siding is one of our most popular products. Here are professional tips for a flawless installation.
By Kwame AsanteA Brief History of the Lumber Industry in Los Angeles
From the lumber schooners of the 1880s to modern reclamation, the story of wood in LA is the story of the city itself.
By Rafael CortezComparing Reclaimed Hardwood Species for Furniture Making
Oak, maple, walnut, cherry — which reclaimed hardwood is best for your next furniture project? A species-by-species breakdown.
By Kwame AsanteFrom Demolition Site to Sales Floor: How We Process Reclaimed Wood
A behind-the-scenes look at what happens to reclaimed lumber from the moment it arrives at our facility.
By Priya SharmaReclaimed Wood Kitchen Countertops: Pros and Cons
Considering a reclaimed wood countertop for your kitchen? Here's an honest look at the advantages and challenges.
By Luca FerrettiCan Reclaimed Timber Be Used in Earthquake Retrofitting?
In earthquake-prone LA, structural integrity is paramount. We explore whether reclaimed timber meets seismic requirements.
By Rafael CortezBest Reclaimed Wood Projects for Beginners
New to working with reclaimed wood? These five beginner-friendly projects will get you started with confidence.
By Kwame AsanteThe Surprising Fire Resistance of Old-Growth Timber
Large old-growth timbers actually perform better in fires than steel beams. Here's the science behind this counterintuitive fact.
By Mei-Lin TaoReclaimed Solid Wood Flooring vs. Engineered: Making the Right Choice
Both reclaimed solid and engineered flooring have their place. Here's how to decide which is right for your project.
By Luca FerrettiNavigating LA Building Codes When Using Reclaimed Lumber
Building with reclaimed wood in Los Angeles involves specific code requirements. Here's what contractors and homeowners need to know.
By Rafael CortezWinter Woodworking Tips for Southern California
Even in mild LA winters, seasonal changes affect wood. Here's how to adapt your woodworking for the cooler months.
By Kwame AsanteBuilding a Sustainable Fence with Reclaimed Lumber
A privacy fence is one of the best uses for reclaimed wood — affordable, beautiful, and environmentally responsible.
By Luca FerrettiThe Story Behind Our Palmetto Street Facility
Our home base has its own reclaimed history. Learn how a forgotten industrial building became LA's hub for salvaged lumber.
By Rafael CortezWhat to Look for When Buying Reclaimed Lumber
Not all reclaimed lumber sellers are equal. Here's a buyer's checklist to ensure you get quality salvaged wood.
By Priya SharmaHow Reclaimed Wood Helps Achieve LEED Certification
Using reclaimed lumber can contribute significant points toward LEED green building certification. Here's how.
By Mei-Lin TaoHow to Maintain Reclaimed Wood Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor reclaimed wood furniture needs seasonal care to look its best. Here's a simple annual maintenance schedule.
By Kwame Asante