Buy Used Lumber in Aurora

Save Money on Lumber: Your Guide to Buying Used Wood in Aurora, CO

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find quality used lumber in Aurora, save 30-50% on building materials, and discover eco-friendly options for your next project.

Why Buy Used Lumber?

Used lumber offers three main benefits:

• Save money: Pay 30-50% less than new lumber prices
• Help the environment: Reduce waste and save trees
• Find unique materials: Get character wood you can't buy new

Where to Find Used Lumber in Aurora

Lumber Yards and Millwork Shops

These places know wood. They often have extra materials from big projects.

What to look for:

• Surplus dimensional lumber (2x4s, 2x6s, etc.)
• Custom-cut pieces
• Reclaimed beams and boards
• Professional advice on wood quality

Example: A local deck builder might have leftover cedar boards from a large project. These boards are perfect for your fence at half the price.

Thrift Building Supply Stores

These stores get donated materials from construction projects and home renovations.

What you'll find:

• Hardwood planks for shelving
• Plywood sheets
• Decorative trim pieces
• Barn wood and rustic materials

Benefits:

• Very low prices
• Inventory changes weekly
• Money supports good causes
• No pressure to buy

Tip: Visit regularly. The best materials go fast.

Reclaimed Timber Dealers

These specialists focus on high-quality reclaimed wood.

What they offer:

• Hand-selected beams and boards
• Cleaned and ready-to-use materials
• Unique pieces for special projects
• Delivery services

Best for: Feature walls, mantels, and furniture projects where appearance matters most.

How to Choose Quality Used Lumber

What to Check Before You Buy

Look for problems:

• Cracks that go through the board
• Soft spots (could be rot)
• Bug holes
• Warping or twisting

Good signs:

• Solid, dense wood
• Clean cuts
• Minimal surface damage
• Straight boards

Simple Tests

The fingernail test: Press your fingernail into the wood. If it goes in easily, the wood might be too soft or rotted.

The sound test: Tap the board with a hammer. Good wood sounds solid. Bad wood sounds dull or hollow.

The smell test: Musty or sweet smells can mean rot or mold.

Money-Saving Tips

Best Times to Shop

• Spring: People clean out garages and sheds
• After storms: More demolition materials available
• End of construction season: Contractors clear out extra materials

How to Get Better Prices

• Buy in bulk: Ask for discounts on large orders
• Build relationships: Regular customers often get first pick of good materials
• Bring cash: Some places offer cash discounts
• Be flexible: If you can use different sizes, you have more options

Transport Tips

• Measure your vehicle: Know what fits before you buy
• Ask about delivery: Compare delivery costs to truck rental
• Bring tie-downs: Secure your load properly
• Get help loading: Lumber is heavy and can be awkward

Common Projects and What Lumber You Need

Fencing

• Material: Cedar or pressure-treated posts and boards
• Where to find: Lumber yards often have fence materials from cancelled orders

Shelving

• Material: Hardwood boards (oak, maple, pine)
• Where to find: Thrift stores get donated furniture-grade wood

Deck Repairs

• Material: Matching deck boards and joists
• Where to find: Deck builders often have leftover materials

Furniture Projects

• Material: Reclaimed barn wood, hardwood planks
• Where to find: Reclaimed timber dealers have the best selection

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy lumber that:

• Has been stored outside without protection
• Smells moldy or sweet
• Has large cracks or splits
• Bends easily when you pick it up
• Has obvious insect damage
• Is painted (might contain lead)

Getting Started

Your First Visit

Bring a tape measure: Know what sizes you need

Bring a flashlight: Check for problems in dim storage areas

Wear work gloves: Splinters are common with used wood

Bring a notebook: Write down prices and locations of good materials

Questions to Ask

• "When do you get new materials?"
• "Do you offer delivery?"
• "Can I return materials if they don't work?"
• "Do you have more of this type of wood?"
• "Is there a bulk discount?"

Final Tips

Start small: Begin with a simple project to learn about used lumber quality.

Be patient: Good deals take time to find.

Have a backup plan: Used lumber availability changes quickly.

Enjoy the hunt: Finding great materials at low prices is part of the fun.

Used lumber gives you quality materials at budget prices while helping the environment. With a little knowledge and patience, you'll find everything you need for your next project in Aurora.