Step 2: Buy secondhand, recycled or reclaimed timber

A better environmental choice than buying new timber.

Did you know? It is estimated that over 3,000 tonnes of reusable wood is thrown away or burnt from the demolition of old buildings in the UK every working day.

Top tips for buying recycled and reclaimed timber

• Do you know what is available?
  Check what sizes of fittings and fixtures are easily available from salvage yards before designing DIY projects. For example design your door openings to fit the size of a door easily available.
  

• Can you find wood from older buildings?
  Usually better timber comes from older buildings. Victorian pine floors were made from very dense first growth forest timber, incomparable to the new wood sold these days.

• Have you thoroughly inspected the goods?
  Check every detail. Take your builder with you if you are unsure. Pre-wrapped flooring may look great on the outside but contain mixed sizes making laying expensive. Ask to look inside packaging; good dealers prefer you to check beforehand.

Buy the book for More guidance on using reclaimed/recyled timber Extensive listings of UK reclaimed timber dealers Analysis of timber products and alternatives. Only £7.50 Order now >

Related links BRE Centre for Waste and Recycling, Building Research Establishment, includes Materials Information Exchange and SMART assessment programmes SALVO! DIY 'Wants and Offers' Or see our full list of Good wood guide links.