An Architect's Guide to Specifying Reclaimed Lumber

We work with architects across the New York metro area, and a common challenge is writing clear, accurate specifications for reclaimed lumber. The material doesn't fit neatly into the standard specification frameworks designed for new lumber products. Here's a practical guide to getting it right.

Understanding the Differences

New lumber specifications can reference standardized grades, exact dimensions, and consistent availability. Reclaimed lumber doesn't work this way. Your specs need to account for natural variation while still establishing clear quality standards.

Species Specification

Specify the species you want, but include acceptable alternatives. For example: "Reclaimed white oak, or approved equal including reclaimed red oak or reclaimed mixed oak." This gives the supplier flexibility to fill the order from available inventory without compromising the design intent.

If a specific species is essential to the design (e.g., American chestnut for a historical renovation), note that longer lead times may be required and budget accordingly.

Grading and Quality Standards

Standard NHLA grading doesn't directly apply to reclaimed lumber. Instead, describe the quality characteristics you need:

• Structural grade: "Structurally sound, free from active decay, insect damage, or through-splits. Surface checking and cosmetic imperfections acceptable."
• Appearance grade: "Consistent color and patina. Nail holes, minor checking, and saw marks acceptable and desired. No active rot, excessive staining, or paint residue."
• Character grade: "Maximum character and variation. Knots, nail holes, bolt holes, checking, and color variation all acceptable. Boards must be structurally sound."

Dimensional Specifications

Specify target dimensions with acceptable tolerances. Reclaimed lumber typically has wider tolerances than new lumber:

• Thickness: +/- 1/16" for milled flooring and paneling
• Width: Specify either a fixed width (+/- 1/8") or a range (e.g., "random widths, 4" to 8")
• Length: Specify minimum length and average length, not a single fixed length

Lead Time and Procurement

Include realistic lead times in your project schedule. For common species and standard dimensions, 2-4 weeks is typically sufficient. For rare species, unusual dimensions, or large quantities, allow 6-8 weeks or more.

We strongly recommend a pre-bid conference or supplier consultation during the design phase to confirm material availability and pricing before the project goes out to bid.

Substitution Clauses

Your specification should include a clear substitution process. Because reclaimed material availability can change, the spec should define what constitutes an acceptable substitution and who has approval authority.

Sample and Mockup Requirements

Require samples before production begins. We recommend requesting a range panel — a sample showing the full range of color, character, and variation that the installed product will exhibit. This prevents disputes during installation about boards that fall outside the client's expectations.

If you're working on a project that involves reclaimed lumber and need help with the specification, contact us. We're happy to review specs, suggest appropriate language, and provide technical data to support your documentation.