UK · Updated 2026 · Price comparison
Reclaimed vs New Reclaimed Structural Timber in Glasgow: 2026 Comparison
Should you buy new or reclaimed timber for your Glasgow project? In 2026 the answer increasingly leans reclaimed — cost, planning acceptance and embodied carbon all favour it. Here's the head-to-head for Scotland buyers.
Cost comparison, 2026
| Grade | Reclaimed | New equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Job-lot | £380 per m³ | £684 per m³ |
| Standard | £890 per m³ | £1,602 per m³ |
| Premium | £1,400 per m³ | £2,240 per m³ |
Quality and spec differences
- Dense, slow-grown fibre — often 30–50% stronger than modern C16
- Air-dried for decades — dimensionally stable
- Nail holes and character marks add heritage patina
Carbon comparison
Reclaimed timber carries close to zero embodied carbon vs new manufacture. On a Glasgow refurb, choosing reclaimed can offset 3–8 tonnes of CO₂e per property depending on scope.
Planning acceptance in Glasgow
Glasgow planning officers routinely accept and often require matching reclaimed stock inside conservation areas across Scotland.
Frequently asked questions
+Is reclaimed always cheaper than new in Glasgow?
Almost always for standard grades. Premium heritage grades can approach or exceed new prices when new equivalents don't exist.
+Is reclaimed timber structurally graded?
Not automatically — arrange visual regrading (BS 4978) or lab strength testing for load-bearing use.
+Does reclaimed void manufacturer warranties?
New warranties don't apply. Ex-display and surplus stock retains full warranty when unregistered.