The Art of Resawing: Unlocking Hidden Character

After we stabilize our reclaimed timbers through kiln drying, the next important step in turning old barn beams into usable lumber is resawing.

Resawing involves slicing large, thick beams and planks vertically into thinner, smaller boards. This process reveals the true, untouched character of the wood.

More Than Just Cutting Wood

Resawing is not just simple milling. It is a careful process that produces two different material options from one piece of reclaimed wood:
Original Face Surface (Patina):

• 1. Original Face Surface (Patina):
  • The outer layer of the timber is called the “patina face.” This surface holds the wood’s century-old history, featuring gray weathering, deep textures, occasional saw marks, and natural oxidation from sun and rain.
  • We often keep this face intact for uses like wall cladding, siding, or decorative accents where a rustic look is desired.
• 2. Freshly Sawn Surface (Clean Face):
  • The newly exposed interior of the beam shows the rich, virgin color of the old-growth wood, often in deep browns, reds, or yellows.
  • This clean-sawn surface has tighter grain patterns and the incredible density found only in century-old timber.
  • This option is ideal for projects needing a smoother, more refined finish, like tabletops, flooring, or cabinetry. It still offers the stability and history of reclaimed wood.

Precision is Key

We carry out our resawing process with specialized, wide-blade band saws that minimize waste and maximize precision. By cutting the material strategically, we can achieve consistent thicknesses, which is essential for professional installation. This also allows you to select the exact look that fits your design vision.