Reclaimed wood - Steer clear or jump on it?

[lilgodwin]

https://ventura.craigslist.org/mad/5439913509.html

Only a couple of the pictures are of the actual product, the rest seems to be examples of reclaimed wood that's been used for various purposes.

Is this type of wood something I should be snatching up, looking at cautiously, or just staying away from in general?

What might be some pros/cons of buying these types of reclaimed wood?

And... if I were to go pick up some, what would/should I look for and to stay away from?

[JPG]

3$ a bdf?

Beware of metal!!!!

Look for straight.

Try to visualize the grain.


Then it is a matter of judgement.

[ERLover]

I would definitely would go over it with a metal detector b4 machining.

[lilgodwin]

Great advice. Possible metal isn't something I thought of. I doubt I'll take the time to go pick any up, but maybe next time. Just curious if it's even a good idea or not.

The ad says $1/ft starting out. Not sure what woods that includes. I'm all for a good deal, but obviously I should be cautious.

[garys]

If I had that opportunity, I would buy whatever black walnut I can find in the piles. The rest of it isn't worth taking home unless you have a wood stove. Reclaimed soft woods don't even make decent firewood.

[lilgodwin]

Good to know. So, next question:

What's a good online guide for identifying various types of wood? I wouldn't have a clue at this point.

[JPG]

Since it is likely weathered and painted, that will be difficult. Most references will show finished or at least a smooth milled surface.

A pocket knife will be handy if the seller allows.

A scrub planer would be even better.

[ERLover]

Click on the wood for a bigger pic and description.
http://www.wood-database.com/

[garys]

You can sort the hardwood pieces from the softwood simply by picking it up. The weight of each piece tells you a lot. Pine, spruce, cedar, and other softer woods won't have much weight. Wood like oak, hickory, maple, and walnut will be significantly heavier.
Once you have the heavy pieces pulled out of the piles, sort them by looking at the wood itself. You should be able to find the worthwhile pieces that way.

[lilgodwin]

Apparently this place is a cabinetry shop. Which makes me wonder why they might be getting rid of "good" wood. I don't mind asking them, though I'm not sure I'll get a straight and honest answer. Any thoughts on why they might be parting with the wood?

Since I'm out, I guess this is as good a time as any to hit up other cabinet shops for scraps.