Recycling has become increasingly popular because of concerns about the Earth's environment and the subsequent response from the "green" movement. Most people are aware that glass, paper, aluminum and plastic can be recycled, but they might not know that wood products also can be recycled for a variety of uses inside and outside the home.
Landscaping Products
Recycled wood can be used in landscaping products, from lumber to mulch to surfacing materials for walkways and playground equipment. Mulch products typically are made from recycled timber, and surfacing materials generally are made from recycled wood chips. In addition to private use, these materials can be used in parks, private or public gardens, golf courses and municipal areas. Recycled wood lumber often consists of an equal mix of wood fibers generated from recycled sawdust and recycled plastic materials. This composite lumber can be used as decking materials, landscaping timbers, railings and fences.
Flooring
One of the more popular uses for recycled or reclaimed wood is in hardwood flooring. Recycled flooring typically is made from wood products that have been salvaged from other sources, such as old barns or houses, or from wood found at the bottom of lakes or rivers. Chestnut, hickory, cherry and oak are popular for use in recycled wood flooring. Creating flooring from recycled wood is more energy-efficient than using raw materials, and its natural hardwood composition is more durable than newer types of fabricated wood flooring, such as laminate. Using recycled wood to create flooring also results in less wasted wood material that ends up in landfills.
Animal Products
Recycled wood can be used to make products associated for use with animals, including bedding for livestock, horses, poultry or domesticated animals. Recycled wood used for bedding is absorbent, soft and low-maintenance; it also generates little dust and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Recycled wood also can be used to make litter products for cats, birds, reptiles and small mammals, as well as for equestrian surfacing for use in indoor and outdoor arenas or paddocks.
Home Decor
Recycled wood can be used to create home furnishings and accents, such as coffee tables, dining tables, chairs, end tables, mantels, bookcases, entertainment centers, wine racks, planters, decorative art pieces, lamp bases, benches, bed frames, dressers, toy chests, baby furniture and picture frames.
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