The phrase “reclaimed wood” is a buzzword in the industry, and today, we are talking about the reclaiming process. But have you ever wondered how an old, weathered piece of timber metamorphoses into a visually striking piece of reclaimed lumber? It’s not just about the physical transformation but also a journey that involves environmental sustainability, historic preservation, and community support.

At Manomin Resawn Timbers, we believe in honoring the past while creating a sustainable future. Our five-stage reclaiming process is a testament to our commitment to these values.

Before Manomin’s process begins, it is important to source the right material. We partner with reputable demolition companies, barn and building salvage yards and certified forest managers to ensure that our reclaimed wood comes from sustainable sources. This helps preserve our forests and supports local communities and businesses.

Once the product is sourced and shipped to our facility in Hugo, Minnesota, our skilled team will get to work. At Manomin Resawn Timbers, we have carefully curated a five-stage process that sees salvaged timber bloom anew. Our journey, though profound, can be broken down into these critical stages:

  1. De-Nailing
  2. Cleaning
  3. Kiln Drying
  4. Milling
  5. Installation

Each stage serves a distinctive function, but together, they contribute to a meticulously crafted piece of reclaimed wood that exudes beauty and resilience.

1. De-Nailing

The first stage of our reclaiming journey is the tedious yet crucial task of de-nailing. This process involves removing old nails, screws, and other metal hardware from the salvaged lumber. While it may seem simple, it requires patience and precision to ensure the wood is not damaged. Our team uses specialized tools and techniques to delicately remove the metal and preserve the integrity of the wood.

the de-nailing part of the reclaiming process

2. Cleaning

Once the nails have been removed, our team cleans the salvaged lumber. This stage involves removing any dirt, grime, or other debris that may have accumulated on the wood over its use. We take great care in this process to avoid using harsh chemicals or methods that may harm the wood. Our goal is to reveal the natural beauty of the wood while still maintaining its character and history.

power washing the reclaimed wood

3. Kiln Drying

After cleaning, the wood is ready for kiln drying. This step involves placing the lumber in a sizeable oven-like structure where it is dried at controlled temperatures and humidity levels. Kiln drying removes excess moisture from the wood and helps stabilize it, making it less prone to warping or cracking. This is essential in preparing the wood for its new life as a reclaimed timber.

4. Milling

Once the wood has been de-nailed, cleaned, and kiln-dried, it is ready for milling. This process involves cutting the wood into desired dimensions and shapes, such as boards, beams, or planks. Our team of skilled craftsmen uses traditional methods alongside modern technology to ensure precision at this stage. We take great care to preserve the unique characteristics and patina of each piece of reclaimed wood.

5. Installation

The final stage of our reclaiming journey is installation. Whether for flooring, paneling, or furniture, our team works closely with clients to bring their vision to life. Each piece of reclaimed wood has its history and story, making every installation a genuinely unique experience.

At Manomin Resawn Timbers, we take pride in our five-stage process and the beautiful products that result from it. By reclaiming old wood, we not only help reduce waste but also give new life to something that was once considered past its prime. We invite you to participate in our sustainability, preservation, and creativity journey. Let us help bring your reclaimed wood vision to reality.

Join us on our journey today! So why wait