Expert: Dave Johnson - 4/24/2008

Question
We have some old barns that are beginning to fall down.  Someone suggested that the wood could be sold for home construction/renovations.  Where would I begin to find an interested party in Upstate NY?

Answer
Hi Carol,
I'm in Maine, so am not aware of any outlet for your barnboards.
However, there must be some place to market them in your area. I would try the local lumber yards (not the "big box srores) and see if they have any ideas. Also, there is a bigger market in larger cities, for the "rural" look in city homes, so advertising in larger newspapers or magazines may help.
FYI: taking the boards/beams apart and removing the nails will probably bring you a better price. Save any wooden pegs and really old nails/hardware too!
Best of luck, and sorry I didn't have a better answer for you...
Dave