Jeld-Wen jumps on a trend: Reclaimed wood

The reclaimed building product is often the highlight of the high-end home tour — whether it’s flooring salvaged from a New England church or beams from a Midwestern barn. These recycled products add character to a house, while appealing to the eco-friendly market.


Klamath Falls, Ore.-based Jeld-Wen Doors & Windows sees salvaged wood as “one of this year’s hottest home style trends,” and is making it easier for homeowners to claim it. As part of the company’s Custom Wood line, it is offering for the first time reclaimed window and door products.


The new product has generated a sizable sizzle, according to Brian Hedlund, product marketing manager. “In my six years introducing new features and new products, reclaimed Douglas fir probably by a factor of three has generated more buzz than any other product.” 


The product brings about a 5% pricing premium over standard products, he said. It targets custom home builders, eco-conscious consumers (FSC certification is in the works) and any project with a need for “rustic,” he added.


The rugged Douglas fir is salvaged from barns, factories and even snow fencing that protects northwestern highways from snowdrifts. Consumer options, from most rustic to least rustic, include “weathered,” skip planed and planed.