LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building certification system in the world. For architects and developers pursuing LEED certification in Los Angeles, reclaimed wood is a powerful tool that can contribute points across multiple credit categories.
Materials and Resources credits are the most direct pathway. LEED v4.1 awards up to 2 points for building reuse and up to 5 points for building product disclosure and optimization. Reclaimed lumber contributes to both — reused materials count toward the reuse credit, and documented salvaged materials count toward materials optimization.
The Regional Priority credit is particularly relevant in Los Angeles. LEED recognizes that environmental priorities vary by region. In Southern California, where landfill diversion is a significant concern, using reclaimed materials can earn an additional Regional Priority point.
Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are increasingly important in LEED. While most reclaimed wood doesn't have a formal EPD, the life-cycle assessment data for reclaimed wood is highly favorable. We work with project teams to provide documentation supporting environmental claims.
Innovation credits can also be earned through creative use of reclaimed materials. Projects that demonstrate exceptional commitment to material reuse — for example, sourcing the majority of wood materials from reclaimed sources — have successfully earned Innovation points.
From a practical standpoint, we support LEED documentation with chain-of-custody records showing the source of our reclaimed wood, estimated quantities of waste diverted from landfill, and species and grade documentation. Several LEED Platinum projects in Los Angeles have used our materials, and we're happy to share our experience navigating the documentation requirements.