When sourcing reclaimed scaffold board – if they have been used – understanding the reasons why they have hit the reclaimed market is really important.
That reason could determine whether or not the boards are suitable for your all important project.
Scaffold Boards and all scaffold components need to comply with specific legislation. For scaffold boards this is BS2482:2009 – those that are deemed not to meet that standard must be disposed of. It is these boards you will find being sold a Used or reclaimed boards.
Some of the common flaws you might find;
· Loose or broken knots
· Fungal decay – for example wet rot
· Cracks caused by over loading
· Excessive cuts on the face of the boards (if traders have used these to cut various other items on)
· Broken or damaged end bands
· Infestation of the timber (e.g holes created by insects
The majority of the legislated damage relates directly to the boards structural integrity in one way or another. Being able to better identify what the damage could have been will allow you to choose the best boards for your project.
Items with Fungal decay or Infestation – I would personally avoid but again identifying your project and its needs may mean this not to be a problem.
If you were looking for long boards for decking – ideally you would source reclaimed boards with damaged end bands as opposed to cracks formed due to over load as the chances are you will need to cut these shorter to eliminate the damage.
So now you have found some reclaimed boards….. Picked out the ones you think will best suit your project…. What next!?
I always try and find out where the boards came from. This will help me work out if any stain you see is from a potential harmful chemical… or just some mud that’s been trodden in over the years. Remember all wood is porous and will love to soak up anything wet it touches… so if you plan to make some serving boards.. Bath caddys or dining tables … you need to be 100% they are chemical free…
Here is an example of a dining table made up of four reclaimed boards. For more Ideas on what you could use scaffold boards - check out my other blog "Why you should use Scaffold boards"
