Why Does Old Wood Turn Grey?
Old wood turns grey because UV radiation and moisture break down and wash out the lignin in the wood. This process not only leads to a light to dark grey discoloration but also changes the texture of the reclaimed boards. Sunlight breaks down the components of the wood that are responsible for color and strength, causing gradual greying. In addition, weathering, especially rain, contributes to washing out the dissolved lignin from the wood surface, which promotes the formation of grooves and cracks and creates the typical grey reclaimed wood patina.
Reclaimed boards on a north-facing facade are more likely to turn grey as they are more exposed to weathering.
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