What to Know Before Buying Reclaimed Hardwood Flooring

Reclaimed hardwood flooring is not new flooring.

It carries history, density, character — and responsibilities.

Before purchasing salvage, understand what makes it different so you can plan correctly and avoid frustration.

Trying to Match an Existing Floor?

Matching 100-year-old hardwood isn’t guesswork.

👉 Read Our Guide to Matching Old Hardwood Floors in Saint Paul

Salvage Is Structurally Sound — But Not Perfect

Every bundle at Ground Floor Supply is:

• Fully denailed
• Moisture tested
• Stored in climate-controlled space
• Culled for severe structural damage
• Sold only with substantial wear layer remaining

We do not sell flooring that is at the end of its sanding life.

However, reclaimed wood will show:

• Nail holes
• Minor edge imperfections
• Previous milling variations
• Color variation
• Natural character

That is part of its value.

If you are looking for uniform, factory-perfect flooring, salvage is not the correct material.

Installation Takes More Time

Reclaimed flooring requires:

• Board-by-board inspection
• Occasional trimming
• Thoughtful layout planning
• Possible groove correction
• Realistic pacing

Tongues may have been nailed before.
Groove lips may show age.

Glue assist is often recommended in addition to nailing for stability.

Expect installation to move slower than new flooring.

Sanding Requires Planning

Some reclaimed flooring has never been sanded.
Some has had coatings removed in the past.

Expect:

• Possible stubborn shellac or wax residue
• Higher abrasive use during initial passes
• Variation in board height

We ensure there is “meat on the bone,” meaning sufficient wear layer remains for sanding and future refinishing.

But reclaimed floors require a professional sanding approach.

Old Wood Still Moves

Age does not eliminate movement.

Reclaimed hardwood is just as hygroscopic as new wood.

It must:

• Be acclimated properly
• Be moisture tested
• Be installed within correct environmental ranges

Assuming “old wood is done moving” is one of the most common mistakes in restoration work.

Bundle Structure Explained

Reclaimed flooring is sold by the bundle.

Bundle sizes vary from 2–30 square feet depending on board length.

Why?

Because board lengths vary dramatically in salvage material.

This system works well for:

• Patching
• Hallway repairs
• Radiator removals
• Small additions

For larger areas, availability fluctuates. Always confirm quantities before planning full installations.

Salvage Is Worth It — When Done Correctly

Material cost is often similar to new hardwood.

Labor is usually greater.

The reward is historical continuity.

Salvage preserves the personality of the house instead of turning it into a patchwork of eras.

It keeps the story intact.

Ready to Proceed?

Bring in a sample.
Send clear photos.
Measure carefully.

→ Browse Available Reclaimed Flooring
→ Learn How to Match Old Floors Properly

Working on a Patch?

Before you install:

👉 How to Match 100-Year-Old Hardwood Floors
👉 Which Wood Filler Should You Use?
👉 How to Fill Hardwood Floor Gaps (Step-by-Step)
👉 Call 612-812-3628 Before You Cut

Ground Floor Supply
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Contractor-trusted reclaimed hardwood flooring