The Beauty of Antique Heart Pine

Heart pinewood is one of the finest types of antique lumber available. It dates back to the arrival of the first American settlers. When the pioneers started to explore the country in search of more land, a group of them discovered an enormous pine forest that ranged from the Atlantic coast to the Mississippi River. This wooded area measured more than 95 million acres, and it grew trees that were four feet in diameter and as tall as 150 feet.

A Unique Characteristic

People started calling this type of tree a heart pine because it has a unique characteristic, which is a large heart center with a small section of sapwood surrounding it. The heart center is dense, hard and heavy. It is also resistant to rot and insects. Heartwood pine takes time to develop. In fact, it takes at least 200 years for the material to become antique heartwood. Few woods rival the strength, beauty and durability of antique heart pinewood. These elements make it an ideal material for your fireplace mantle.

Antique Heart Pinewood for Your Mantle

A mantel made from antique heart pinewood will make your fireplace special in a number of ways. For instance, the wood selection features a rich patina and distinctive color. In most cases, modern-day heart pinewood is recycled lumber from trees that date back to the first generation. Today, most of it comes from mills and factories that were constructed during the Industrial Revolution. Because of this, you’ll be supporting the reclaimed wood industry when you purchase an antique heart pine fireplace mantel.

The Benefits of Reclaimed Wood

Reclaimed wood aids the environment. It can also help save a forest’s existing trees. Often, antique pine heartwood is a higher quality wood than new lumber. In addition, if a modern-day wood developer uses reclaimed wood, he or she will generally reprocess it. When a crafter refinishes pine heartwood, the substance reacts to the wood’s natural tannins to create a beautiful surface. This type of wood is beloved for its historic elements and character. With a mantel made from antique pine heartwood, you’ll also have a piece that offers a pleasant aroma and texture.

Enhancing Your Home Responsibly

By selecting an antique heart pine fireplace mantel, you’ll not only have a piece that enhances your home with beauty and style, but you’ll also have a décor item that’s environmentally responsible. The Mantel Shoppe builds mantels in a variety of styles and designs. In addition, the company customizes each fireplace mantel to ensure a proper fit.