FAQ

BEAMS / MANTLES-

Are reclaimed wood beams structural? How much weight can wood beams hold?

While all of our reclaimed wood beams have held heavy structural loads for many years, we do not grade or certify our beams for structural purposes. This is not to say that the reclaimed timbers will not hold a structural load, we simply are not qualified to certify them for structural purposes. Most of our customers use the beams we provide for decorative use and those that do need them for structural uses may need a third party to certify them, such as a structural engineer and architect. If you're looking to use reclaimed beams to build a structure it is always best to contact your local building authority for guidance.  

Will my solid reclaimed wood beams contain mortise pockets?

While there are a few reclaimed wood beams that are mortise free, it’s rare. Due to the construction methods used in early buildings mortise pockets were a structural part of the beams, connecting one beam to another to create a frame. To sum it up, the majority of our reclaimed wood beams will contain mortise pockets on at least one face, but this only adds to the rustic look and authenticity. 

We provide photos of all four sides of any mantel sold on our site to document any presence of mortise pockets.

Can I purchase beams or mantles with no cracks or holes?

It is the nature of salvaged wood to have nail holes, knot holes, stains, cracks, splits, worm holes, mortise holes, and irregular thickness or widths. Avoiding these features entirely is nearly impossible and we cannot specify or avoid these features on your beams or mantel.

What wood species are available for reclaimed wood beams?

Reclaimed barn beams come from a variety of wood species, such as douglas fir, heart pine, hemlock, maple, white oak, red oak and other species native to Michigan. Both hardwood and softwood species have different characteristics that may make them more favorable for your project. Contact us and one of our knowledgeable staff members will help you make the right choice.  

 

 

 SHELVES - 

What will the thickness be of my shelves? 

Shelf thickness will vary depending on the style chosen and material used. For example, modern style shelves have a "cleaner look", meaning they have to be processed/planed down more to remove texture. Shelf thickness will vary between 1 1/2 "- 2".
We will do our best to ensure all shelves placed in a single order are the same thickness; however, orders purchased at different times may vary slightly.

Can I purchase shelves with no cracks or holes?

It is the nature of salvaged wood to have nail holes, knot holes, stains, cracks, splits, worm holes, mortise holes, and irregular thickness or widths. Avoiding these features entirely is nearly impossible and we cannot specify or avoid these features on your shelves.  

Will my shelves come with mounting hardware?

Shelves are available for purchase with "floating shelf" mounting hardware installed. This is an option in our shelf category, and unless purchased, our shelves are not shipped or drilled out for mounting hardware.