ORANGE COUNTY, CA (PRWEB) OCTOBER 05, 2012

For those homeowners who don’t want to settle for the ordinary, one of the hottest trends right now is remodeling with recycled or salvaged materials such as reclaimed wood. Homeowners not only have a one-of-a-kind signature look different than the cookie cutter fixtures and accessories found in chain stores but also save money and help the environment.

“Companies are popping up today selling old reclaimed wood with years of weathering and turning the material into something beautiful like picture frames, park benches, fences, planter boxes and yes, even doors for master bathrooms,” says Steve Bowman, owner of All in 1 Handyman Services. “Recently a client from Irvine found a website describing step-by-step how to build a sliding barn door. We were asked to install the custom built door with barn door hardware in their master bedroom. The door installation provided an incredible finishing touch on the master bedroom remodel.”

If homeowners think outside the box, many salvaged items can be reused in the home as seen in these photos. For example, old wooden lockers from a warehouse can be turned into upper cabinets or discarded flower pots can be used as pendant lights adapted to a track light system. Old fireplace mantles, vintage light fixtures, faucets, or metal ceiling tiles can all be installed for a unique look. Some of the older products are actually better quality as well. The creative and artistic homeowner can even turn recycled materials into works of art or art installation in their homes.

Where can recycle materials and products be found? Homeowners may be surprised at all the resources available. Aside from salvage stores and companies that sell reusable home products, check out antique stores, auctions, garage sales, flea markets, Craigslist, and demolition companies. Dilapidated barns are often a good source for wood that can be used in flooring, and wall or ceiling treatments.