Fake Oak Ceiling Beams? Best 17 Answer

Ceiling beams are one of the most striking architectural features a home can possess, adding warmth, depth, and richness to almost any space.

Unfortunately, mounting solid wood beams is often impractical due to their cost and weight. Luckily, faux ceiling beams can offer the same look without the high price and hassles associated with real wood.

Aged and contemporary faux ceiling beam styles

Whatever your home style and personal taste, there is almost certainly a false ceiling beam that fits your vision.

Here are the styles and textures that fake ceiling beams can offer your next project.

Aged beams

Are you trying to evoke classic style and old world craftsmanship in your home? Look no further than these aged ceiling beam styles.

Whether your home is American Colonial or Victorian, these faux ceiling beams can help the interior of your home complement the exterior.

magnolia beam

These faux wooden beams add a natural, rustic feel to your design. This popular distressed wood texture creates a beautiful, authentic look while adding versatility and comfort to any interior or exterior design.

Finishes range from wood and sable to fresh coffee and burnished, offering homeowners a wide range of options and looks. The edges of these beams are rounded, making them look like they’re actually carved out of a tree trunk. This style is perfect for a rural country house – or a suburban home that wants to capture the feel of the countryside.

Check out Magnolia Faux Beams

Old Tuscan beams

Looking for a beam option that will add old-world charm to your home?

Ancient Tuscan beamed ceilings embody the essence of Mediterranean style and blend beautifully with a range of architectural styles, from Italian to 18th-century American.

Like Old Timber beams, these faux beams are heavily aged, with “axe marks” that make them look like they were hand sculpted by a craftsman. Perfect as a complement to a mantel or as part of a truss system, antique Tuscan beams come in a variety of finishes from espresso to oak.

Check out old Tuscan art beams

Hewn beams

Real hand hewn wooden beams are stunningly beautiful and reflect the dedication and skill of the craftsman who fashioned fir trunks into wooden beams with nothing more than a hand ax and sweat.

True American style hewn beams reflect the realities of life for American settlers who had to build their homes themselves – and these faux carved hewn style ceiling beams offer all that beauty and style at a fraction of the price.

Check out carved art beams

Contemporary beams

Of course, newer style homes can also benefit from the beauty of artificial ceiling beams.

These modern ceiling beam styles can create a loft-like feel in your living room or add height and depth to your kitchen and dining room.

Saw cutting beam

As the name suggests, these false ceiling joists look like they were cut by an old sawmill. The beauty of sawn beams is that they work in a variety of applications, from simple ceiling beam constructions to intricate truss systems.

Due to the different surfaces in combination with the pleasantly rough grain, these beams are also suitable for many architectural and furnishing styles.

Check out saw cut faux beams

WEAR BELT BLASTING

Our custom distressed grain faux wood beams have a highly pronounced, heavily sandblasted look with strong accents and eye-catching details.

With their highly realistic appearance and dynamic wood grain, these beams are sure to bring warmth and beauty to any room in your home or business.

Check out worn faux grain beams

Carved wooden beams

For homeowners who prefer the subtle look of majestic beams but want a little more texture, wood-crafted beams are for you.

The clean lines combined with the strong wood grain make these faux ceiling beams a good fit for spaces that walk the line between classic and contemporary, and they work well in spaces like kitchens, great rooms, and outdoor living spaces.

With a wide range of finishes from mahogany and espresso to oak and light walnut, wooden beams truly are one of the most adaptable architectural features to add to your home.

View wooden art beams

OLD BARN BEAMS

Our faux Old Barn timber beams feature the weathered, perfectly aged appearance of reclaimed barn wood and showcase the same beautiful grain lines and textures as the real thing. These beams are great for trussing or as indoor or outdoor accents.

These faux ceiling beams have a strong and deep grain, reminiscent of the appearance of aged barn wood. However, unlike aged wooden beams, these beams are cut with strong square edges rather than weathered rounded edges, making them better suited to clean, contemporary spaces.

Display faux old barn beams

wind drift rays

Do you love the look of wood grain with its swirls and knots? Then wind drift bars are just right for you!

Ideal for beach houses and seaside cottages, these faux wooden beams are also perfect for any suburban home that wants to capture that year-round coastal style. The beams’ vintage feel perfectly represents some of today’s biggest living trends while remaining timeless and classic.

Check out Wind Drift Faux Beams

Choosing between fake ceiling joist styles

Regardless of the style of your home, there is clearly a faux ceiling beam to match.

Even better, these faux ceiling beams can bring all the beauty and richness of wood to your home at a fraction of the price.

You may also be interested in these related articles:

Popular for their old-fashioned and rustic appeal, exposed ceiling beams add a dramatic sense of strength and weight to a room. If you like the look and are planning to build a new home or add an extension, you can incorporate this structural component into your design. You can also bring the rustic yet elegant look into an existing home with faux beams that closely resemble the original. Read on to learn more about this timeless architectural element and how to acquire it.

History and Basics

Top beams are a standard element in timber frame construction and while they have an undeniable aesthetic appeal, their original purpose was purely functional: large beams effectively support the weight of upper floors and roofs. Logs and sticks, the forerunners of early beams, were laid across the tops of the stone walls. With the invention of rudimentary tools, craftsmen could carve longer beams out of larger trees. Exposed beam construction became the norm, appearing in country houses and castles throughout Europe, the Orient, the Middle East and in virtually every country as architecture developed.

As building technology advanced in the 1800s and lumber mills capable of mass-producing wooden members appeared, massive ceiling beams were gradually replaced by the smaller lumber used to make rafters (the inclined members) and joists (the horizontal ones). ceiling elements) at home to frame construction.

From the 1950s to the 1980s, high ceilings and large beams were hidden behind lower, ‘drop’ ceilings in conversions to reduce heating and cooling costs. But timber frame construction, also known as “mullion and transom” construction, never died out entirely – it’s still a feature in ski resorts, mountain homes, cabins, large barns, and farm buildings.

Don’t you want to do it yourself? Get free, no-obligation quotes from licensed general contractors near you. Find Local Pros +

Structural vs. decorative beams

Installing structural beams – which are part of a building’s load-bearing structure – is always a task best left to the professionals. Depending on the size and material (solid hardwood or industrial steel), large beams can weigh up to a thousand pounds and require a crane to lift and position. In most communities, such a design must be approved by an engineer before planning permission is granted, and inspections are required throughout the construction process.

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Decorative beams – designed purely for aesthetics – come in a variety of styles, and some can be erected by avid DIYers with a basic knowledge of carpentry. However, even these artificial beams can add significant weight, so it is advisable to have your existing structure assessed by an engineer prior to installation.

– intended solely for aesthetic purposes – come in a variety of styles, and some can be erected by the enthusiastic DIY enthusiast with a basic knowledge of carpentry. However, even these artificial beams can add significant weight, so it is advisable to have your existing structure assessed by an engineer prior to installation. DIY with Dimension Lumber: A popular way to install a faux beam is to position dimension lumber like a 2×4 along the ceiling and then construct a three-sided wooden box to cover the lumber and create the beam look. Depending on the length of the ceiling joist, the weight of the lumber used for the box cover, and the number of joists, you can consider adding an additional thousand pounds or more to your home’s structure.

A popular way to install a false beam is to position dimensional lumber like 2×4 along the ceiling and then construct a three-sided wooden box to cover the lumber and create the beam look. Depending on the length of the ceiling joist, the weight of the lumber used for the box cover, and the number of joists, you can consider adding an additional thousand pounds or more to your home’s structure. Fake it with prefab: Fortunately, faux exposed ceiling joists made from molded fiberglass or high-density polyurethane are fairly lightweight and can be installed without an engineer’s approval. If your ceiling doesn’t support heavier joists, these impressive cheats might be your best bet. They come in a variety of sizes and styles that mimic solid wood beams or steel I-beams, and can be painted or stained to match your decor. Installation is simple, typically blocks are mounted to the ceiling and then the light beams are fitted over the blocks and secured with screws.

Exposing existing ceiling beams

If you own a home that was built before the 1920’s and whose roof was originally framed with large beams and rafters, your dream of dramatic exposed beam ceilings may be waiting above you. Since the beams are already part of the structure, you can usually remove the false ceiling and restore the beams to their former glory.

Keep in mind that removing the ceiling isn’t a solution in all older homes. If your existing structure has standard ceiling joists that are narrower than joists and spaced closer together (often 24 inches apart), they won’t offer the same look as stouter joists spaced four to five feet or even further apart.

Here’s how to find out: If your drop ceiling has acoustic tiles, slide one up and take a look at what’s above with a flashlight. If the newer ceiling was framed and covered with drywall, remodelers likely left an access hatch (often found in a closet ceiling) through which homeowners could access any wiring or wiring above the ceiling.

Design considerations and details

Because they are large and often imposing, exposed beams look best in rooms with high or vaulted ceilings. Here, chances are good that exposed ceiling beams will add to the appeal of your home. But ceilings without a vault can also benefit from the treatment. If you plan to install horizontal joists on a flat ceiling, make sure they don’t interfere with headroom. Many local codes limit headroom to a minimum of 7ft 6in off the ground, so the underside of your new art joists should stay above this height.

Beyond the legal considerations of structure and headroom, there are no limits to the way you create your quilt’s distinctive feature – so let your personal design preferences and the ideas below be your guide.

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Reclaimed, hand hewn solid wood beams that still bear visible saw marks from the saws used by the craftsmen who hand cut them lend a cottage style home with high or vaulted ceilings, a country cottage, or a woodland cottage.

Not all beams have to be rustic. Painted beams can add a stunning look to a contemporary style home. Imagine the airy feeling created by white walls paired with painted white beams in a vaulted ceiling. Or consider how glossy black bars could look in a contemporary space with chrome and glass accents.

True or false joists can be installed horizontally or along the sloped sides of a vaulted ceiling, or both.

A single joist that extends the length of the ceiling from end to end at the highest point is called a ridge joist and can be installed in conjunction with horizontal and sloped members to create the appearance of a solid roof truss. Vertical elements can be included to support the horizontal elements.

Heavy arched beams in a high vaulted ceiling give a large room the feel of a cathedral.

Steel girders, interspersed with exposed channels, can create the currently popular industrial look.

Disadvantages of exposed ceiling beams

Exposed ceiling beams can have some disadvantages. The following points should be considered before making your decision:

Exposed joists in a vaulted or raised ceiling can be difficult to keep clean. Long-handled dusters can help remove light dust build-up, but when the joists get dirtier, as they do with kitchen ranges, you may have to climb a ladder or set up scaffolding to clean them once or twice a year.

Expect an increase in your utility bills if you choose to remove a drop ceiling to reveal beams, since you’ll have more space to heat and cool. Installing a ceiling fan or two can help circulate heated air that rises to the ceiling; Underfloor heating can also help focus heat at floor level.

If you’re building from scratch and want real logs, expect to pay 10 to 15 percent more for your home. Real beams cost more than regular framing lumber, and because they are heavy and unwieldy, the labor cost of installing them is also higher.

There are many ways to make a home look more luxurious than you paid for it. New windows, chandeliers and wooden beams can spice up your home and enrich its appearance. Exposed ceiling joists and rafters have become increasingly popular in recent years. They look impressive and add a lot of aesthetic appeal to a home, but hardwood can be expensive. Fortunately, there are some workarounds to achieve the same luxurious look without the high costs associated with real wood beams. The key is to choose faux wood ceiling joists. Yes, it is true; Faux wood offers all the visual appeal of real wood without the added expense.

Benefits of using cheap faux wood ceiling joists

The solution to these problems is the use of imitation wood ceiling joists. They offer numerous advantages over real wood, including the following:

Lower acquisition costs

On average, artificial wooden beams cost less upfront than real wood. This is because they are made from lightweight polyurethane, which is a far less expensive material than hardwood.

Easier installation

Being significantly lighter than hardwood, polyurethane is easier to lay. There is no need to ensure that the frame in your home is sufficient to support the load. Also, the installation process is much easier to complete with fewer people, making cheap wood ceiling joists perfect for DIY enthusiasts.

Less structural stress

The structural stresses caused by real wood can put a strain on a house not only after the initial installation, but also in the long term. Lightweight wood look wood beams can prevent this stress and make your home less susceptible to structural damage in the event of water leaks or pests.

Entertains

Unlike wood, faux wood is resilient to the wear and tear you would have on mahogany, oak, walnut, etc. It’s waterproof, so there’s no risk of warping, water damage, or mildew. In addition, pests such as termites do not gnaw on it, which keeps it structurally intact.

Extremely attractive aesthetics

The ultimate goal here is, of course, a visually appealing result. Those who opt for cheap wood-beam ceilings might worry that they don’t have the same luxurious appeal as real wood, but that’s actually not the case. Imitation wood beams are molded and painted to have all of the intricate detail and rich colors that you would get with authentic wood beams, making them an extremely affordable way to enhance the beauty of your home.

Challenges of using real wood versus cheap faux wood ceiling joists

To further understand how faux wood can be a great way to give your home a luxurious makeover, let’s also take a look at the challenges that come with real wood ceiling joists. Disadvantages of real wood are:

High acquisition costs

Real wood, especially richer woods like mahogany or walnut, costs quite a bit per joist. Decking your living room ceiling with a row of several thick walnut beams can easily break your budget.

High maintenance

In addition to real wood’s high initial cost, it also requires maintenance to remain strong and safe. Otherwise, moisture and pests could penetrate the material and cause it to warp, crack, and sag.

Difficult to install

Aside from the high cost, real wood is very heavy. This makes installation difficult, especially if the frame of your home is not designed to take the extra load. Installing real wooden beams in your home can turn into an unexpected and quite expensive renovation process.

Installation of ceiling beams made of imitation wood in your home

There are several ways to take advantage of faux wood to improve the appearance of your home. Design ideas for using cheap faux wood ceiling joists include:

Stretched living room ceiling

This is very simple, but the trusses add tremendous detail. Instead of having an empty ceiling, it’s now framed in a way that makes the space feel a lot cozier than before.

grid ceiling

This area is outlined to add detail to the ceiling without being overly elaborate. Sensual and tasteful, the lattice pattern enriches this space without breaking the bank.

Rustic dining room

Rustic aesthetics are new to luxury, and this dining room uses richly colored beams to add warmth while bringing the ceiling a little down to earth.

rafter trusses

Rustic style rafter supports like this suit most rooms including this area with the stone hearth and chimney. It creates an old-time feeling and is reminiscent of cozy times of bygone times.

Factors to consider when choosing faux wood ceiling joists

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a faux wood design for your home. Considerations for selecting faux wood beams include:

Desired result

Is your desired result a more classic vibe or do you want something cozier? Modern or old fashioned? The answers to these questions will determine what type of cheap wood ceiling joist is best for your project.

color scheme

Warmer colors tend to evoke a more comfortable feel in a room, while lighter colors make a place appear brighter. Dark wood colors, on the other hand, can create a higher-quality look.

space requirements

Would you like a place to feel more spacious or cozier? And how much space is on the ceiling for beams? This is an important factor in determining how many supports should be installed and how they should be arranged.

Find cheap ceiling beams made of artificial wood now

AZ Faux offers a huge selection of cheap faux wood ceiling joists. They are available in custom sizes and finishes to meet your exact project needs. Contact us anytime for help choosing faux wood beams and designs for your next home improvement project.

Browse cheap faux wood ceiling joists

Exposed ceiling beams are an architectural feature that allows rooms to have higher ceilings, or a decorative element that adds charm. We’ve found that distressed wood beams are one of the features most requested by homeowners right now. However, old reclaimed beams are typically very heavy, expensive, and often compromised by warping or insect damage. If you’re just trying to keep the look of exposed joists and don’t need the support, installing faux wood joists is a great option.

What are artificial wood beams?

Usually made from high-density polyurethane, faux beams look just like the real thing. They are widely available and come in hundreds of styles and textures. They are also lightweight, making them easier to install than real wooden beams. We asked five home bloggers to share their ideas on how to incorporate the look more cost-effectively. Here are five ideas to help you decide what to use and where to place your ceiling joists.

Related How to build a wooden beam ceiling

Historic style master bath

Traci from Beneath My Heart fell in love with the look of ceiling beams while browsing Pinterest. She installed art beams in her master bathroom to complement a refinished clawfoot tub and antique dresser-turned-vanity. She was impressed with the ease of installation; She says she and her young sons could have done the work themselves – although her husband helped.

See how they completed the project: Installing faux wood beams in our master bathroom

Fake Out Family Room

The price of aged wooden beams put Heather off from The Heathered Nest — until she figured out how to mimic the look. She and her husband used them to add rustic accents and architectural details to the high cathedral ceiling of their family room. They found the beams at the Home Depot.

Read more about Heather’s project here.

Country style bedroom

In a year-long makeover of her master bedroom, Larissa from Prodigal Pieces reworked an old polka dot quilt. Instead of a faux, engineered wood style, she bought plain pine beams and distressed them to get the rustic look she desired.

See more photos and how they finished the ceiling: Farmhouse master bedroom grand finale

Wood framed door

To create the look of a chunky solid wood beam and column duo in room-dividing doors, Lindsay of The White Buffalo Styling Co. used framing timber to expand and conceal the smaller support beams. Your contractor could nail the framing timber directly to the existing joist. For the pillars, they used three boards nailed into the drywall. They added a dark wood stain to complete the look.

See how she did it: Creating Faux Wood Beams

Rustic kitchen ceiling on a budget

Wooden beams were on Jenna of Jenna Sue Design Co.’s wish list when she was looking for a home. When the house she ended up in didn’t have any, she decided to explore options to add them. She was surprised to find that even imitation wood would cost her a pretty penny. Instead, she built the decorative beams she wanted out of cheap whitewood.

Check out the DIY tutorial: Kitchen Chronicles: DIY Wooden Beams

Beamed ceilings are a highly desirable home feature that add architectural charm and a subtle rustic touch to any space. However, not all homes are built with decorative ceiling beams. If you live in a Bauhaus with lackluster ceilings, you can recreate the look with our easy tutorial. This project uses inexpensive whitewood planks held together with wood glue and nails. When stained, these DIY beams look just like reclaimed wood. Cover your ceiling with beams to instantly add character and country style. Follow these instructions from Jenna Diermann of Jenna Sue Design Co. to make rustic wooden beams in just three easy steps.

Paul Dyer

What you need

1 × 4 whitewood boards

1 × 6 whitewood boards

4 inch screws

Drill

wood glue

nails

nail gun

wood filler

wood stain

Joist straps made from flexible strips of metal found at hardware stores

spray paint

Courtesy of Jenna Dierman

Step 1: Lay the foundation

Before installing wooden beams on the ceiling, you need to determine their placement. Examine your ceiling to identify beams, lights, and other obstacles you need to avoid. Once you’ve decided on the layout, screw 1×4 boards down the length of your ceiling. These serve as your guide. Attach the boards to the joists with 4-inch screws.

Courtesy of Jenna Dierman

Step 2: Make Ceiling Joists

Construct a simple three-sided box from one 1×4 and two 1×6 whitewood planks using wood glue and a nail gun. Fill in the nail holes with wood filler and then stain the box for a rustic look. Repeat until you have enough boxes to span the length of your quilt. These boxes will be your ceiling joists. Slide the crates around the 1×4 ceiling panel and attach by nailing them through the joist and into the panel.

Courtesy of Jenna Dierman

Step 3: Cover the seams

Create joist tapes from pliable strips of metal found at hardware stores to cover the seams between boards. Spray before installation to create an oiled bronze appearance. Slide the band over the joist and screw it into place.

Wooden beams give a house a timelessly rustic elegance. Builders traditionally used heavy wooden beams to support the upper floors and roofs. This dramatic look has endured through the years and today conveys a feel that is both intimate and solid.

You can make your own imitation wood beams. It’s a simple illusion, and the beams are straightforward and fun to build. And for all the sense of permanence they evoke, they’re just as easy to remove and leave little damage to your home.

How to Make Faux Wood Beams Create a three-sided wood faux beam Age the wood Screw a wood cleat to the ceiling Attach the faux beam to the cleat Cover seams, joints, and ends with metal joist ties

Basics of artificial wood beams

Imitation wood beams are long, hollow three-sided boxes. After assembly, the U-shape faces up and the three finished sides face the room.

A hidden cleat securely attaches to the ceiling of drywall. The dummy beam spans the cleat and fasteners attach the beam to the cleat from the sides. Distressing—a way to quickly antiquate wood—makes your faux beam look like it’s been there forever.

When two joists butt together, metal joist tapes cover the seam. They are also used to cover the ends and are easy to put on.

Types of faux beams

Distressed Dimension Wood

If you want to be creative with faux wood beams, go all the way. Building artificial wooden beams out of one-by-six dimensional lumber gives you the blank canvas you need for your genius to shine.

Custom lumber squares itself to easily create 90 degree angles. Best of all, you’ll have fun thinking of all sorts of ways to distress the wood.

Three boards form a U-shaped box. The surface is aged, then the box is mounted on the ceiling ledge. Joist tapes cover the ends and any midpoint seams where the false joist meets adjacent joists.

What we like Create the look you want

Less expensive than other options

Angles up to 90 degree angles What we don’t like Shorter wood

Joint may be visible

Distressing the wood means more work (if that’s not your thing)

inside rebate

Simulated aged shiplap siding has a rustic appearance because it has been so finished. At the factory, the paneling is primed and varnished to give it the patina of aged wood.

Shiplap boards are assembled similar to the distressed dimensional lumber method, except that the shiplap tongues of the boards must be cut lengthwise. Since some sidewall boards are long, you may be able to create a faux beam that runs the full length of the room – with no seams.

What we like Aged and distressed

Long enough to fit the room without seams

Joints are less visible What we don’t like Cutting off fold-over tongues

More of a solid color than manual distress

Polyurethane foam support

Three-sided imitation wood beams are made of high-density polyurethane foam. They are modeled from real wood and finished with realistic looking wood tones and textures. Of the three options, this is the most convenient since you buy them from online vendors. There is nothing to build; all assembly work. A 20-foot, 4-inch square polyurethane foam beam costs between $400 and $500.

When a small space is crammed with architectural detail and cursed with low ceilings, it may be best to paint exposed beams to match the rest of the ceiling. A light color makes the ceiling recede – White is a ceiling standard, but any shade lighter than the walls has the effect of drawing the eye up and visibly distancing the ceiling. When the ceiling joists are around the room, the open area in the middle of the ceiling appears higher than it is.

Highlights Installing LVL carriers costs $800 to $2,500.

LVL bars cost $3 to $12 per linear foot.

LVL is factory made and stronger than traditional lumber, making it a great option for long span beams up to 60 feet.

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Laminated plywood (LVL) is an engineered material made from wood laminate. LVL carriers range from $800 to $2,500, with a national average of $1,650. LVL is a thick plank made of layers of thin plywood glued together – also called microlaminate beams. It is less likely to warp, twist, bend or shrink than traditional lumber.

LVL is a popular and affordable option for headers, joists, and edging material. Whether you’re replacing an old wooden beam or removing a load-bearing wall, LVL is a great option.

National average cost: $1,650

Average range: $800 – $2,500

Minimum cost: $800

Maximum cost: $2,500

How much does it cost to install LVL Beam?

LVL offers several advantages over traditional lumber. Because it’s manufactured in a factory to controlled specifications, it’s stronger, straighter, and more consistent. Because of its composite nature, it is more durable and stronger than regular lumber.

While the cost of installing a steel beam can be as high as $5,000, an LVL beam can be a less expensive option, ranging in price from $50 to $200 per foot including installation.

Related article How much does it cost to replace a rotten support beam? Replacing a rotted support beam costs an average of $3,250, depending on the material, the cause of the damage, and the structure of your home

LVL beams average $3 to $12 per linear foot for the material or $50 to $200 per installed foot. LVL beams are cheaper and more durable than regular wooden beams. LVL beams are fire resistant, shrink resistant and easy to install, especially over long spans.

Installation cost breakdown for LVL carriers

Photo: ultrapro/Adobe Stock

The cost of LVL carriers depends on many factors such as: B. the size and type of support you need for your building and the labor required for installation.

size

The size of the LVL carrier makes a big difference in its cost.

Size in inches Cost per linear foot 1.75 x 7.25-11.25 inches $3-$5 1.75 x 14-24 inches $6-$11 3.5 plus inches $10-$12

installation

To install an LVL beam, expect to pay between $47 and $188 just to install a standard size 1.75 x 7.25 to 11.25 inch beam.

span

The span determines how long the joists you need for support. Because of its strength, an LVL beam can span up to 60 feet. The size of LVL bars starts at 24 feet to 44 feet in length and can go up to 60 feet. LVL beam thickness is typically between 1.75 and 7 inches.

Spans that fit 10 feet of space are priced from $3 to $5 per linear foot, while a span of 20 feet requires a beam that costs $6 to $11 per linear foot. Consult a local structural engineer to determine the best LVL beam size for your span.

Related Article How Much Does a Curved Basement Wall Repair Cost The typical cost to repair a foundation is about $4,500, but major foundation repairs that add beams or piers can cost $10,000 or more

Questions and answers on installing LVL carriers

Is LVL cheaper than steel?

While LVL beams offer a stronger and more durable material than regular wood, they can be less expensive than steel and concrete beams.

Make sure there are no cuts in the beam when installing an LVL beam. Any cut in the wearer will affect the strength of the wearer.

If you want to install a joist instead of a load-bearing wall or instead of another joist. If the LVL joists are parallel to the other floor joists, they could be in the $1,500 to $3,000 range when installed in a home.

They can cost $3,000 to $5,000 when installed on exterior walls, depending on accessibility and utilities and what the posts will be supporting.

What are the pros and cons of LVL carriers?

advantages

Incredible strength

light material

Because it is a technical product, it overcomes some disadvantages of natural lumber, such as B. Shrinkage, warping and buckling.

Unique and aesthetically pleasing material, unlike regular wood, steel or concrete.

LVL is ideal for many other structural applications such as door frames, window frames, joists, trusses, joists and more.

Disadvantages

If it gets wet, it can rot faster than solid wood.

Although the dimensional stability is better than solid wood, if stored improperly, the product may have some defects, such as cracking. B. warping.

LVL is manufactured with strong resins that can leave a dull, abrasive, blotchy appearance on the product’s surface. However, this can be solved by using appropriate paints and paints.

While LVL is a great structural product, you can only use specially treated and high quality LVL for exterior facades.

Can I drill into an LVL carrier?

Before drilling vertical holes, you should consult an engineer or architect. But in general you should avoid vertical drilling through LVL bars unless the bar width is at least 3.5 inches.

What is the correct LVL beam size for different spans?

LVL beams support spans of up to 60 feet. The size of the LVL beams changes depending on the span.

The spacing between ceiling joists is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few suggestions on how best to place your joists to achieve your desired look:

Floor joists are typically spaced between two feet and eight feet apart.

The most common ceiling joist spacing is four feet.

Ceiling joist spacing is a matter of preference, so there is no right or wrong answer!

Ceiling joist spacing: what you need to know

Ceiling beams add character and atmosphere to any room. Whether you want to achieve a classic, modern, or rustic look, adding ceiling beams can highlight the best features of your home.

Ceiling joists are available in a variety of colors and finishes. Once you’ve decided on your preferred style, you need to pay attention to the size and spacing of your ceiling joists.

How far apart should ceiling joists be?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, but it’s possible to look at what the majority of customers are doing and then figure out what works best for you. Ceiling joists also come in a variety of sizes, and the size of your joists may affect the spacing you choose.

The most common size for ceiling joists is six inches wide and six inches high.

Many people with lower ceilings choose joists that are four inches high.

The typical range for ceiling joist spacing is anywhere from two feet apart and up to eight feet apart.

The most common ceiling joist spacing is four feet.

A shorter distance gives your ceiling an attractive patterned look and creates a real focal point.

Greater spacing will make your joists look light and airy, almost as if they are structural and supporting the ceiling.

Where should ceiling joists start on my ceiling?

The next question is where to start with your ceiling joists. You might not have thought about it that much, so you can consider these two options to get you started.

Ceiling joists on your walls

Place your first and last joists directly against the wall on each side of the ceiling to create a neat, closed effect. Note that when a joist meets a wall, only two sides are visible – so you can save money by ordering L-headers to match your other joists.

Another option is to use half-width L-headers to make it appear like half of the joist is embedded in the wall, like a real frame house.

Ceiling joists away from your walls

Place your first and last beams some distance from your walls for a more expansive look. You could make sure the distance between the walls and each of your joists is equal, or have a shorter distance between the walls and your first and last joists.

Trends in ceiling joist design

The best thing about ceiling joists is their versatility. They can help a room appear vintage, exuding an old-world style, or modern and contemporary. Here are some trends to consider when deciding on your ideal joist spacing.

Exposed ceiling beams

People used to want to cover up all the furnishings to make a ceiling look like a smooth plane. Nowadays people like to show how things work.

Whether you’re exposing existing joists or installing new joists, your exposed ceiling joists will fit right in with today’s trends!

coffered ceilings

A coffered ceiling is when you place wooden beams and other decorative elements to form an even grid across your entire ceiling.

The classic version of coffered ceilings often featured beams painted white on a white ceiling, or perhaps some muted shades of cream and gray. But you could use natural wooden beams and bold colors on your ceiling for a very modern look.

ceiling truss

If you have vaulted ceilings, the load-bearing ceiling trusses may or may not be clearly visible. Some people prefer to hide the trusses or paint them the same color as the ceiling so they are unobtrusive.

But why not turn your ceiling trusses into a design statement? Simply add real wood or faux wood beams to enhance the height and lines of your ceiling.

wooden consoles

To make your ceiling beams pop, consider adding decorative wood corbels to boldly connect your beams to your walls. Consoles come in many different styles and colors so you can easily match them to other patterns and designs in your home.

floating coat

Once you’ve installed your ceiling joists, you may want to find ways to connect the joists to the rest of your room. A floating mantel can turn your fireplace or an important piece of furniture into a beautiful and practical focal point.

For best results, order a mantel that matches the texture and color of your ceiling joists.

Wooden beams vs. artificial wood beams

Like everything these days, ceiling beams are available in a range of traditional and modern materials. While solid wood beams look nice, they cost more and require more effort to install. It can be helpful to base your decision on whether you have a new or old home.

Historical houses

If you have a historic home, it’s best to use the same type of solid wood as other elements in your home. If the original wood species is no longer available, you can at least try to find materials that are similar in color and grain.

Modern houses

In a modern home you have no limitations and you may want to explore box beams which are hollow and can be made of wood or imitation wood. Box ceiling beams have several advantages over solid wood beams.

Box ceiling joists are lighter, so they cost less to buy and ship.

Because they are lightweight, they are much easier to install.

You can choose from a variety of colors and grains.

You can use box joists to run wires and cables for your lighting and sound systems around your home for a streamlined look.

Are you ready to choose the best ceiling beams for your home?

Engineered wood ceiling beams offer amazing value for money. Easy to install, they can instantly add charm and personality to your favorite spaces.

Best of all, they come in a wide range of colours, finishes and styles to suit absolutely any type of home. Click below to see which ceiling joists suit your home!

Learn more about Ceiling Beams: Faux Wood Beams

So how do you choose the joist you need for your ceiling? Below are some tips on the selection process.

Choosing the right size

Not all homes are the same and that is why Ornamental Decorative Millwork offers two different sizes of decorative art beams.

This Old House spells it out perfectly in their blog post. They mention that “the width and depth of the decorative beams should be proportional to the size of the room. The larger the room and the higher the ceiling, the wider and deeper the beams. In rooms with 8 or 9 foot ceilings, beams about 5 inches wide and about 3 inches deep are typical.”

These joists can also be used to cover existing joists in homes if they are narrow enough. Courtney Equall with @girlandgrey recently covered her old beams in her attic with brand new 5×5 Ambrosia Maple Beams. Read the whole story here.

Join these 8 foot joists together to create the length needed to run the full length of your ceiling.

What are the pros and cons of installing faux beams?

What are the pros and cons of installing faux beams?

Cave Creek’s experienced carpenters detail the installation of Faux Beam

Wooden beams give your home a beautiful and sophisticated look. They can add a unique charm to an otherwise dull, white ceiling and raise the profile of the entire room. You can beautify your home and increase its value simply by installing wooden beams.

Artificial beams look just like wooden beams and offer many other advantages. Here are some pros and cons of installing art beams to consider when considering ways to update your home:

Benefits of installing faux beams

They are affordable

Wooden beams can be quite expensive. Multiply the cost by the multiple joists it takes to complete a large room and you could see a pretty hefty renovation bill. Faux beams or box beams are much cheaper while still offering the same look. No one visiting your home will be able to tell that they are not solid wood beams, but you will see a world of difference in your budget.

They are easy to install

Box girders get their name from their construction. They are beams made up of four sides joined together like a box. Seen from below, they look like solid wooden beams, but are hollow inside. Because of this, they are much lighter than traditional wooden beams and they are easier to install. Easier installation further reduces costs.

They are lighter

The lighter weight of artificial beams not only makes them easier to install, but also means they don’t need as much structural support. You can easily lift them yourself if you install them yourself. You also don’t need to add joists or other supports across your ceiling to anchor the joists.

They are practical

This hollow core not only facilitates the installation of box girders, but also gives them practical functionality. For example, if you want to run track lights or other lighting fixtures through your space, you can simply run the wires through the center of the joist instead of running it across your ceiling and worrying about insulation and other materials. You can install the lights more easily and hide the wiring for an aesthetic appeal.

They are easily customizable

You can get box beams in a variety of styles to match the look of your home. They can be made from a variety of woods, stained or painted a variety of colors, and decorated with a variety of embellishments and accents. You can get exactly the look you want.

Disadvantages of installing faux beams

Faux beams don’t have many downsides, but here are a few:

They offer no structural support

Some people use wooden beams to support elements of their home, such as B. the ceiling, large lights or even parts of the roof. However, box girders cannot be used to provide such structural support because they are light and hollow. They serve an aesthetic purpose, not a structural one.

They are not suitable for historic houses

Historic homes must be preserved and maintained using materials and techniques that reflect the period in which the home was built. Box beams are a modern trend, so they would not be appropriate for historic homes that would require solid wood beams.

As you can see, faux beams have many more advantages than disadvantages. They are easy to install, affordable and practical while still giving you a beautiful look for your home. You also have greater flexibility in designing the beams to match the style of your home or create a new look in your desired style. Work with your Arizona box beam supplier to select the details to create the perfect design for your beams.

The Woodland Custom Beam Company makes beautiful, handcrafted box beams in the Phoenix Valley area. Our skilled carpenters have experimented extensively with materials and design to create the perfect box beam. Our beams are made of wood and can hardly be distinguished from solid wood beams. Contact the Woodland Custom Beam Company today to talk to us about what you want from a box beam and create your perfect design. We have also made ready box girders available in our extensive product gallery.

ABIS building and pest inspections are carried out to the highest standard by building inspectors with at least 10 years experience and the highest professional qualifications in their field. ABIS has been in business for over 27 years conducting both building and wood pest inspections.

Our highly recommended home inspectors are all longtime trusted employees who are not here today and are subcontractors tomorrow. ABIS inspectors are supported by a unique computerized inspection system and the latest inspection equipment, such as highly sensitive thermal imaging cameras, which cost thousands of dollars and which others often don’t have.

When you book a pre-sales inspection with ABIS, our friendly local staff (they know the area and don’t work with an interstate or overseas call center) will make the whole process easy for you. Our office team will make all the arrangements with you, your agent, the seller and the renter (if any) and you will receive an email confirming the inspection time along with a pre-engagement letter covering the scope of the inspection. Good communication and local knowledge are key to getting the most out of your building and pest inspection. We are happy to answer all your questions and you are cordially invited to be part of the viewing. Our technology, systems and processes also mean that you receive your quality report shortly after your inspection is complete.

And all this at an unbelievably low price.

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