In the heart of Alberta, a transformative movement is underway, one that intertwines history, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Backroads Reclamation, based in Strathcona County, is at the forefront of this movement, specializing in reclaiming and repurposing historic wood from obsolete structures. Their mission is clear: to divert valuable materials from landfills and give them a second life in modern applications.
The Genesis of Backroads Reclamation
Founded in August 2020 by Jay Sanderson, Backroads Reclamation emerged from a deep-rooted passion for preserving Alberta's architectural history. The journey began when Jay learned about the impending demolition of a grain storage structure in central Alberta. Recognizing the potential of the materials within, he embarked on dismantling the building, salvaging the wood, and envisioning its future possibilities. This endeavor laid the foundation for what would become a pioneering force in sustainable building practices.
A Commitment to Sustainability
At its core, Backroads Reclamation champions the principles of the circular economy. By salvaging wood from structures such as barns, horse stables, and historic sites like Fort Edmonton, the company ensures that these materials are repurposed rather than discarded. This approach not only reduces waste but also preserves the unique character and stories embedded within each piece of wood.
The company's dedication to sustainability is evident in its meticulous processes. Each reclaimed timber undergoes a rigorous drying and processing regimen to ensure superior quality, stability, and longevity. This commitment guarantees that the final products, be it flooring, furniture, or architectural accents, are not only environmentally friendly but also built to last.
The Environmental Impact of Reclaiming Wood from Infill Demolitions
Every year, countless older homes and buildings are torn down to make way for infill development. In most cases, the wood and other building materials from these demolitions end up in landfills, contributing to an already staggering waste problem. Construction and demolition debris accounts for nearly one-third of all solid waste generated worldwide, and wood is a significant portion of that stream.
When this lumber is discarded, it not only wastes valuable resources but also releases methane as it breaks down in landfills. Methane is a greenhouse gas more than 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere. In other words, throwing away wood has a direct impact on climate change.
Reclaiming wood from these demolished buildings offers a powerful alternative. Many of these structures were built with old-growth lumber which is dense, , strong, and far superior in quality to most modern timber. By salvaging it, we reduce the demand for logging new forests, helping preserve biodiversity and carbon sinks that are critical to climate health. Every board of reclaimed wood that gets reused is one less tree cut down, one less acre of forest disturbed, and one more piece of history saved from the landfill.
The benefits don’t end with forest preservation. Reusing reclaimed wood conserves the immense amount of energy and water required to process virgin lumber. Logging, milling, drying, and transporting timber all leave behind a heavy carbon footprint. In contrast, salvaged wood has already been harvested and seasoned, making its reuse a low-impact alternative.
By weaving reclaimed wood into modern projects, we’re not only reducing waste but also creating a tangible connection between the past and present. Each beam or plank carries with it a story, of the forests it once grew in, the homes it sheltered, and now, the sustainable future it helps build.
Products That Tell a Story
Backroads Reclamation offers an array of products that showcase the beauty and versatility of reclaimed wood. Their inventory includes:
Handcrafted Interior Doors: Built to last using traditional mortise and tenon joinery by local artisans.
Kiln-Dried First-Growth Lumber: Featuring local species like Douglas Fir and Western Yellow Pine.
Reclaimed Wide-Plank Flooring: Durable and full of character, perfect for adding warmth to any space.
Handcrafted Furniture and Decor: Locally made, heirloom-quality pieces that bring timeless elegance to interiors.
Custom Laminated Tops: Ideal for tables, counters, and unique features that require a personalized touch.
Historic Timbers: Perfect for mantels and architectural accents that add a rustic charm to modern designs.
Decorative Panelling: Including locally sourced barnwood for walls, features, and wood art that tell a story of Alberta's past.
Each product is a testament to the company's dedication to quality and sustainability, offering clients the opportunity to incorporate pieces of Alberta's history into their spaces.
Collaborations That Amplify Impact
Backroads Reclamation's influence extends beyond its product offerings. The company actively collaborates with various organizations to promote sustainable building practices and the use of reclaimed materials. These partnerships not only enhance the company's reach but also contribute to a broader movement towards environmental responsibility in construction and design.
The Future of Reclamation in Alberta
As urban development continues to expand, the demand for sustainable building materials grows. Backroads Reclamation is poised to meet this demand, serving contractors, renovators, woodworkers, and institutions across Alberta. Their commitment to preserving the province's architectural heritage while promoting sustainable practices positions them as leaders in the field of reclaimed wood products.
Looking ahead, Backroads Reclamation aims to expand its operations, increase its inventory of reclaimed materials, and continue educating the public about the benefits of using reclaimed wood. Through these efforts, the company strives to inspire a shift towards more sustainable building practices and a deeper appreciation for the stories embedded in the materials we use.
Why Choose Reclaimed Wood?
Opting for reclaimed wood offers numerous benefits:
Environmental Impact: By repurposing existing materials, the demand for new timber is reduced, conserving forests and minimizing deforestation.
Unique Aesthetic: Reclaimed wood carries a distinct character, with each piece telling its own story through its grain, color, and texture.
Durability: Many reclaimed woods, especially those from historic structures, are often more durable than newly harvested timber.
Carbon Footprint Reduction: The process of reclaiming and repurposing wood consumes less energy compared to producing new materials, leading to a lower overall carbon footprint.
How to Incorporate Reclaimed Wood into Your Projects
Incorporating reclaimed wood into your projects can add a touch of history and sustainability. Here are some ideas:
Feature Walls: Use reclaimed wood panels to create a striking feature wall in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices.
Custom Furniture: Commission bespoke furniture pieces, such as tables, shelves, or cabinetry, made from reclaimed wood.
Flooring: Install reclaimed wood flooring to add warmth and character to your space.
Architectural Accents: Incorporate reclaimed wood beams, mantels, or trim to enhance the architectural features of your home or business.
Backroads Reclamation offers consultations to help you select the perfect reclaimed materials for your projects, ensuring that each piece aligns with your vision and sustainability goals.
The Circular Economy: A Model for the Future
Backroads Reclamation exemplifies the principles of the circular economy by transforming demolition-phase buildings into a continuous resource stream. This model not only reduces waste but also creates a sustainable supply chain for reclaimed wood, honoring Alberta's heritage while forging a path toward a more sustainable future.
By embracing the circular economy, Backroads Reclamation contributes to a system where products and materials are reused, refurbished, and recycled, minimizing the need for new resources and reducing environmental impact.
Join the Movement
Supporting Backroads Reclamation means supporting a future where sustainability and heritage go hand in hand. Whether you're a homeowner looking to incorporate reclaimed wood into your space or a contractor seeking sustainable materials for your projects, Backroads Reclamation offers products and services that align with your values.
Visit their website to explore their offerings, learn more about their processes, and discover how you can be part of the movement towards a more sustainable and historically conscious future.
Keep the Spirit of Reclamation Alive
If you love the idea of saving reclaimed wood to help protect our forests, you may also love our Re:Towels. These reusable towels replace single-use paper towels, helping you cut down on daily waste while adding a touch of sustainability to your kitchen. Just like reclaimed wood finds a second life, Re:Towels keep fabric in circulation and out of landfills.
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