What you need to know before you buy.

If you are building a new custom home or remodeling your current nest, you may be thinking “rustic”.  Good for you! Rustic, authentic real barn wood home furnishings for your kitchen, bath, dining rooms, and doors are classic, functional, beautiful, long-lasting, and unique. 

The hardest part is finding a carpenter.  You won’t find them in typical furniture stores downtown.  They are in small towns, off the beaten path, serving customers like you with specific tastes and desires.  

Be careful choosing.  Purchasing custom-made barn wood kitchen and bath furnishings, barn wood doors, tables, and more can be similar to hiring a contractor.  It matters who you choose to do the work. 

Here are some questions you should ask first to help you find the right carpenter.  While there is no right answer for all, there is a right answer for you, and you should keep looking until you find it: 

Can I buy local?   

This is a good idea anytime, but certainly when dealing with something as personal as custom furniture built for you and your home. Trust is more easily gained when shopping locally.

Where does the recycled barn wood come from?  Your carpenter should have a direct relationship with a barn wood provider.  This allows you to know where the wood came from and perhaps even know some of the history from where the barn stood. 

What about shipping?  This makes a difference even if you buy local.  Does your piece require installation?  How much does shipping cost?  Will it arrive on time?  These are important questions to ask in advance

Can I be a part of the process?  Yes!  You may not want to, but it’s nice to know you can talk to the carpenter, have input in wood selection, approve designs, etc.  That is the personal touch that makes a difference. 

Ask these questions first.  Don’t settle for less than what you expect or deserve.  Keep shopping until you find a perfect fit, to make your custom rustic home design dreams come true.

 At Whatman Hardwoods, we would be thrilled to work with you to make something special and unique out of recycled barn wood just for you.  More importantly, we want you to make the right choice.  We hope this article was helpful for you to do just that.

 Contact Tim Whatman today to discuss your custom barn wood furniture project.