When it comes to transforming your living space, the ceiling is often overlooked. However, adding character to this forgotten area can dramatically elevate your home’s design. One standout way to make a statement is by installing barnwood box beams. These decorative beams bring warmth, texture, and architectural charm to any room. At Forever Barnwood, we specialize in crafting high-quality box beams that offer a rustic, reclaimed look without the challenges of installing heavy, solid wood—whether you’re working with a professional or tackling a DIY project.

Why Choose Barnwood Box Beams?

Barnwood box beams are a versatile and practical material for home improvement. Here are some reasons to consider them for your space:

• Lightweight and Easy to Install: Unlike solid wood beams, barnwood box beams are hollow, making them lighter and easier to handle. They require no structural reinforcement and are suitable for ceilings of all types.
• Cost-Effective Alternative: Get the luxurious look of reclaimed wood at a fraction of the cost. Box beams deliver high-end appeal without a high-end price tag.
• Authentic Rustic Charm: Crafted with 100-year-old circle saw marks and weathered textures, Forever Barnwood’s beams capture the beauty of aged barnwood—minus the contaminants found in reclaimed pieces.
• Customizable Options: Choose from a variety of sizes, finishes, and colors to match your style, from modern farmhouse to industrial chic.
• Versatile Applications: Barnwood box beams are suited for kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and even basements. Use them to create coffered ceilings, suspended beams, or accent features on your walls.

The Forever Barnwood Difference

We’re proud to offer handcrafted box beams made right here in Wisconsin. Our beams are kiln-dried for stability and feature a patent-pending aging process that ensures unparalleled quality. The result? Beams that are durable, authentic-looking, and easy to work with.

Our box beams come in both 3-sided (U-shaped) and 4-sided options, available in customizable sizes like 4″, 6″, 8″, and 10″ widths. Thanks to our unique miter lock joint, the seams are virtually invisible, enhancing the natural wood aesthetic. Whether you’re designing a rustic den or a modern great room, Forever Barnwood can help bring your vision to life.

Transforming Your Space with Barnwood Box Beams

Adding barnwood box beams to your home can completely change the look and feel of a room. A recent ceiling project in Fitchburg by Oak & Stone Home Finishing demonstrates how impactful these beams can be. The homeowner had been eyeing ceiling beams for years, drawn to their rustic-industrial vibe. She also hoped that they could disguise imperfections in her aging ceiling.

For this project, Oak & Stone Home installed our 100-year-old traditional circle hollow box beams in the main living area. The design featured:

• Two ridge beams running through the center of the room.
• Four side beams forming A-frame shapes on each side.

The result was a stunning visual upgrade that brought warmth and personality to the space. The addition of strapping to cover the center seam further enhanced the seamless look, turning the ceiling into a true showpiece.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Barnwood Box Beams

Installing barnwood box beams may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s entirely manageable—even for DIY enthusiasts. Here’s how you can bring your ceilings to life:

1. Plan Your Design

Begin by determining the layout and design of your beams. Will you opt for a single ridge beam, a coffered pattern, or multiple beams across the room? Measure your ceiling and decide on the size and spacing of the beams to achieve a balanced look.

2. Locate Anchor Points

If you’re working on a new construction, ensure backing is added where the beams will be installed. For existing ceilings, locate the trusses or framing using a stud finder. These areas will serve as your anchor points.

3. Install Support Boards (Scabs)

Cut 2x material to fit inside the hollow of each U-shaped beam. Attach these boards securely to the ceiling using trim head screws. For best results, ensure the scabs are installed continuously along the length of the beam’s planned placement.

4. Slide Beams into Position

Gently slide the barnwood box beams over the scabs. Align them with the ceiling’s surface and ensure a snug fit. Use 1 ½” trim head screws to fasten the beam to the scabs from the exterior.

5. Add Finishing Touches

To complete the look, add details like strapping, faux metal brackets, or stains to enhance the rustic aesthetic. Forever Barnwood’s variety of finishes—including weathered gray, burnt black, and red barn—provides plenty of options to suit your decor.

Pro Tip:

If you’re hesitant about installing the beams yourself, don’t sweat it! Enlist the help of an home installation contractor for a professional finish.

Creative Uses for Barnwood Box Beams

The beauty of barnwood box beams lies in their versatility. Here are a few ways you can incorporate them into your home design:

• Living Rooms: Add depth and sophistication with suspended beams or a statement ridge beam. Pair with cozy lighting for a warm ambiance.
• Kitchens: Use beams to frame your space, accentuate an island, or create a coffered ceiling for an upscale farmhouse feel.
• Bedrooms: Make your master suite even more luxurious by incorporating beams as a headboard feature or in vaulted spaces.
• Foyers and Hallways: Welcome guests with a rustic entrance by adding beams to your foyer or hallway ceiling.
• Basements: Hide HVAC systems or add character to an otherwise plain ceiling with lightweight, easy-to-install box beams.

The Final Touch to Any Home

Barnwood box beams are an opportunity to transform your home into a cozy, inviting retreat. With a variety of options from Forever Barnwood, you get the rustic charm of authentic barnwood minus the challenges of heavy solid wood beams. Their lightweight design, customizable finishes, and accessible installation process make them an ideal upgrade for any space.

If you’re inspired to elevate your home’s design with barnwood box beams, Forever Barnwood is here to help. Whether you’re looking for advice, custom sizes, or simply want to explore our selection of colors and textures, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help bring your home upgrade ideas to life.