A Complete Guide to Reclaimed Wood Species Available in the Northeast

One of the most exciting aspects of working with reclaimed lumber is the variety of species available — many of which are difficult or impossible to source as new-growth timber. Here's a comprehensive guide to the species we most commonly encounter at New York Lumber.

Heart Pine (Longleaf Pine)

Heart pine is the crown jewel of reclaimed lumber. Harvested from old-growth longleaf pine forests that were largely clear-cut by the early 1900s, this wood is incredibly dense, hard, and richly colored. The tight grain patterns and deep amber tones make it one of the most sought-after flooring materials in the Northeast.

Where we find it: Pre-war factory buildings, warehouses, and mill structures throughout the New York region. The beams and joists in these buildings were often longleaf pine, and the flooring was typically heart pine as well.

American Chestnut

The American chestnut was functionally wiped out by blight in the early 20th century, making it unavailable as new lumber. Reclaimed chestnut, however, turns up regularly in barns, fencing, and timber-frame structures built before the 1940s. It has a warm, honey-brown color and excellent workability.

This is one of those species where reclaimed is literally the only option. Every piece carries genuine historical significance.

White Oak

White oak is a workhorse species that shows up in everything from flooring to structural timbers. Reclaimed white oak tends to have a deeper, more complex color than new white oak due to decades of oxidation. It's extremely durable, rot-resistant, and takes finishes beautifully.

Douglas Fir

Common in heavy timber construction from the mid-20th century onward, reclaimed Douglas fir is prized for its straight grain, structural strength, and warm reddish-brown color. We frequently salvage large-dimension fir beams from industrial buildings and warehouses.

Red Oak

The most common hardwood flooring species in the Northeast, reclaimed red oak is widely available and affordable. While less dramatic than heart pine or chestnut, aged red oak has a warmth and depth that new red oak lacks.

Cypress

Old-growth cypress is extremely rot-resistant and was historically used in applications where moisture was a concern — water tanks, siding, and dock structures. Reclaimed cypress has beautiful grain patterns and a silvery patina that designers love.

Choosing the Right Species

When selecting a reclaimed species, consider the intended application, the look you're going for, and your budget. Heart pine and chestnut command premium prices due to scarcity. White and red oak offer excellent value. Douglas fir is ideal for structural and heavy timber applications.

At New York Lumber, we can help you identify species from samples, match existing installations, and recommend the best option for your specific project. Don't hesitate to bring us a sample or photo — species identification is one of our specialties.