I've had similar experiences with reclaimed wood—sometimes it's just more trouble than it's worth. Have you tried bringing along a small screwdriver or awl to poke around suspect areas? Usually helps me spot hidden rot or soft spots. But honestly, even then, it's a bit of a gamble. Makes me wonder if reclaimed lumber really saves money in the long run, once you factor in the extra time and hassle...?
I've wondered the same thing myself—by the time you've sorted through reclaimed wood, tested it, and dealt with unexpected issues, are you really saving much? Don't get me wrong, I love the character and eco-friendly aspect, but sometimes practicality wins out. Have you ever looked into locally sourced rough-sawn lumber as an alternative? I've heard it can be affordable and still has some of that rustic charm without the hidden headaches...
You're spot-on about reclaimed wood—it's beautiful but can quickly turn into a time sink once hidden issues pop up. I actually went with rough-sawn lumber from a local mill last summer. Saved me money and hassle, plus I still got that rustic vibe I was after. Sure, you lose some of the eco-friendly bragging rights, but supporting local businesses felt good too. Might be worth checking out if you're balancing budget and practicality...
Totally agree on the rough-sawn lumber route—definitely a practical choice. One quick tip though: always double-check moisture levels before building. Learned that one the hard way... warped boards aren't fun to deal with later.
"always double-check moisture levels before building. Learned that one the hard way... warped boards aren't fun to deal with later."
Good point on moisture, but honestly, rough-sawn lumber isn't always the best route, even if it's practical. I went that way for my cabin build thinking I'd save money and add character, but the extra prep work and sanding ended up being a headache. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront on kiln-dried or dimensional lumber can save time and frustration later—plus, fewer splinters. Just something to consider before committing fully...
