Tucked away in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, America Reclaimed is a treasure trove of hand-selected Americana antiques, live-edge table slabs, vintage leather, pressed tin, and reclaimed lumber sourced from all over the United States. This unique business is not just about preserving the past; it’s about blending history with modern efficiency.
America Reclaimed has taken significant steps to enhance the comfort and sustainability of their historic building while maintaining its timeless charm. They partnered with Bandera Electric Cooperative for their electric, fiber, and Energy Saver Program. Recently, they updated their building with spray foam insulation, painted with a special coating to preserve its historic aesthetic. They also installed new doors and a state-of-the-art HVAC system to further improve energy efficiency.
We spoke with Sarah Kleinwachter, one of the owners, about their experience with BEC. She shared that the Energy Saver Program’s financing option was a key factor in their decision. Their 6,000-square-foot building is now fully insulated—a major improvement from the days when temperatures inside fluctuated between 30 and 115 degrees. Before the upgrades, Sarah often had to wear gloves just to work on her computer, and there were even times when they had to close due to extreme temperatures. Now, the space is comfortable year-round, providing a better environment for both employees and customers.
Beyond comfort, these improvements have helped protect the integrity of the historic building and the natural wood products inside. Consistent temperatures and humidity control prevent warping and damage, ensuring that the reclaimed materials remain in top condition.
Sarah also appreciated BEC’s commitment to working with local vendors. She was particularly impressed that BEC was open to adding a vendor she recommended, highlighting the cooperative’s flexibility and strong communication throughout the entire process. “The openness and communication were imperative, and the entire process was really smooth,” she said.
When it comes to connectivity, BEC Fiber has provided America Reclaimed with reliable, high-speed internet. Sarah noted that she has never had any issues with the service, and whenever she needed assistance, she was taken care of immediately.
For Sarah and America Reclaimed, working with BEC has been about more than just energy and internet—it’s about partnership, community, and preserving history while embracing modern efficiency. With these upgrades, they can continue to offer their one-of-a-kind treasures in a space that honors the past and serves the future. Support a fellow BEC member by exploring their unique collection, visiting their website at https://america-reclaimed.com or stopping by their incredible warehouse in person at 810 Avenue A, Comfort, Texas 78013.
Considering energy upgrades for your home or business? Learn more about BEC's Energy Saver Program by clicking here.