Reclaimed wood flooring is a beautiful and sustainable choice for anyone looking to add character, history, and authenticity to their home. Unlike newly manufactured flooring, reclaimed wood is salvaged from old buildings, barns, factories, and even railway sleepers that are no longer in use.
Instead of being discarded, the timber is carefully recovered, cleaned, and repurposed into high-quality flooring.
Why Choose Reclaimed Wood Flooring?
One of the biggest appeals of reclaimed wood flooring is its story. Every plank carries a sense of history – whether it once formed part of a centuries-old barn or an industrial warehouse. This gives your floor a unique charm that simply cannot be replicated with new materials.
Reclaimed wood is also incredibly eco-friendly. By reusing timber that has already been harvested, you’re helping reduce demand for newly cut trees, protecting forests and supporting a more sustainable way of living.
Many reclaimed floors also come from old-growth timber, meaning the wood is naturally denser, stronger, and more durable than a lot of modern alternatives.
The Distinctive Look
No two reclaimed floors are ever the same. Over time, wood develops rich patinas, knots, and marks from its previous life. You may also notice tiny holes in some planks, which are signs of historic woodworm. However, reclaimed flooring undergoes professional treatment - typically with high-temperature steam - to sanitise the wood completely. This process ensures that no woodworm or pests can survive, so while the marks remain as part of the character, the planks are 100% safe and sound for use in your home.
Close up photo showing the details of one of our reclaimed solid oak planks.
These natural variations, patinas, and historic marks are what make reclaimed wood so desirable – they bring warmth, depth, and individuality into your space. From rustic farmhouse charm to sleek urban loft style, reclaimed flooring suits a wide range of interiors.
Types of Reclaimed Wooden Flooring
Reclaimed wood flooring is available in two main formats:
- Solid Reclaimed Wood Flooring - Each plank is made from one piece of timber, giving you the most authentic and traditional feel. Solid reclaimed flooring is robust, full of natural character, and can often be sanded and refinished multiple times over its lifespan.
- Engineered Reclaimed Wood Flooring - This option combines a top layer of genuine reclaimed timber with multiple backing layers of stable wood. Engineered reclaimed flooring is more versatile and can be installed in a wider range of settings, including over underfloor heating or in rooms where humidity levels fluctuate.
Both options give you the unique look of reclaimed timber, so the right choice often depends on your installation needs and the style of your project.
Photo of our herringbone reclaimed solid oak floor in our warehouse in Italy.
Popular Reclaimed Wood Species
Reclaimed flooring comes in a variety of species, each with its own distinct character:
- Oak - The most popular choice, known for its durability, beautiful grain, and timeless appeal.
- Pine - Softer underfoot, with a warm, rustic look that adds instant charm.
- Maple - Strong and subtle, with a smooth grain that works well in modern spaces.
- Walnut - Rich, dark, and luxurious, perfect for making a statement.
- Exotic Hardwoods - Sometimes reclaimed from historical sites or unique buildings, offering rare and distinctive looks.
The species you choose will affect the overall tone, feel, and style of your room, but every reclaimed option brings its own slice of history.
Is Reclaimed Flooring Durable?
Yes. In fact, reclaimed wood flooring is often stronger than many newly produced options. Because the timber has already aged and seasoned naturally, it’s more stable and less prone to warping.
Photo of our standard design reclaimed solid oak flooring in our warehouse in Italy.
When reclaimed wood is professionally restored, treated, and finished, it performs just as well – if not better – than new hardwood floors.
