Description
Raw Planks
All hardware used to secure the reclaimed semi trailer flooring to the frame is included with your order. We may also have the VIN plate which has the history from the trailer and usually includes information such as date of mfg., serial number, and manufacturer, etc. It’s nice to have a story to go with your project. We try to include VIN plates with larger orders. Ask your salesman about availability.
Our reclaimed semi trailer flooring is often grouped into the same category as barn wood. Since barn wood is usually used only for walls of a barn it isn’t as thick and was made from whatever material was readily available. Semi-trailer flooring was built to withstand being driven over with forklifts daily and carrying heavy loads of cargo for thousands of miles. Due to the nature of its function, semi-trailer flooring is a much more durable material. This translates into a much sturdier end product. The downside to the durability of our wood is the weight. While every trailer is different, we usually use 5 ½ lbs. per square foot as a rule of thumb. Please take that into consideration for your product.
Working with Product
Once you’ve made your purchase and are ready to begin working with your wood there are a few things to consider. If you plan on milling the surface of the wood, I recommend a belt sander. A palm sander will also work but is much more time consuming with large projects. I don’t recommend using a plainer as reclaimed wood will occasionally have a nail or two in it and can ruin your blade. If you plan to use the bolts provided, all you need is a dab of wood glue on the threaded end. Most people insert bolts priorto applying finish.
If your project is going to be outdoors or exposed to water you will need to make sure it’s sealed well. Standing water will delaminate the planks over time.
Many people confuse cargo planks with box car or rail car flooring. Box car flooring is 2 ½” thick where as cargo planks are 1 ¼’ thick. Rail car flooring is also much more expensive, usually $30 per square foot raw. If you want your project to have a similar look it’s easy to make a faux edge. Just buy one extra piece and you can double the thickness around the perimeter of the table. Cargo planks have a shiplap joint that can be turned into a tongue or groove joint when double up. See picture. This also cuts down on the weight of your table or bar.
Steven B –
Great stuff. I have a coffee table made out of this. Full of character and has a fun story