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In the case of timber-framed buildings, it
may be possible to reuse an entire building frame. Some companies specialize in
disassembling and reassembling existing timber frame buildings for new applications.
Timber framers may also use salvaged wood beams to create entirely new buildings. Reused
beams can also be used in other types of construction, particularly in roof assemblies
where large beams are needed. In many code jurisdictions, wood that is going to be reused
structurally must be regraded by a licensed timber grader.
Salvaged beams are often available in sizes, lengths, and species that can be difficult
and expensive to obtain in solid-sawn wood today. Many people like the aesthetic of used,
aged beams, and builders like the stability of well-aged wood. There are numerous
companies nationally that specialize in the salvage and resale of structural wood. Local
builders may also maintain their own inventories of wood salvaged from projects that they
have done. Keep in mind that high-quality salvaged wood may be quite expensive. Also
recognize that if the wood has to be shipped a great distance, this will compromise the
environmental benefits of reuse. In addition, note that salvaging and reusing wood can
cause a significant amount of job-site waste to be created, as damaged and unsuitable
pieces are culled. This may require special planning to arrange on-site wood grinding for
mulch or other wood recycling.
Although beams and joists are frequently candidates for reuse, smaller dimensional lumber
is not often reused. In large part this is because it is difficult to salvage from
existing framing assemblies without substantial damage. In cases where dimensional lumber
has been successfully salvaged, it has been reused for framing. One demonstration project
in Milwaukee used salvaged lumber to build Larssen trusses for wall framing.
Bottom line:
Reusing framing is highly resource efficient, particularly if the salvaged wood comes from
a Local Source. Quantities of reusable wood are limited, however, by the number of
buildings that can't be adapted for reuse themselves and are slated for deconstruction.
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wall system example
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