Variation and Defects: Reclaimed barnwood is a natural product and may contain certain aged characteristics, including but not limited to: color variation, nail holes, mortise holes, insect holes, livestock cribbing (chewing), staining, tapering, wane (nit squared), etc. Due to the technology of the time, reclaimed wood dimensions are not as exact as in modern day milled lumber. The dimensions can vary. Appearances of reclaimed wood can also vary from board to board, even if it’s from the same lot. If a customer was shown a sample, that sample was used to demonstrate the general type and quality of the products. These samples do not represent how the products would necessarily conform to the sample. “Decorative” reclaimed wood products have not been certified as structurally sound by a certified grader.

Painted Reclaimed Wood: Red barns were typically painted with ferrous oxide and linseed oil. Paint used on houses prior to 1978 are known to be lead-based. It is unknown whether or not past barn owners used lead-based house paint on the barnwood. We recommend that you exercise caution if using reclaimed painted wood in a common area with children.

Insects: Reclaimed wood comes from hay and livestock barns that were built many years ago. The wood has been exposed to many things over that period of time. The possibility of insects, mold, or fungus can exist. Reclaimed wood and other natural products sold by Lake County Barnwood are not warranted against insect habitation, mold, or fungus. Products such as Bora-care, Timbor, and Termite-Purf can greatly reduce these risks.