Tag Archive : Remodeling

There is a significant probability that if you decide to build a new home in the future, you’ll have to choose between using solid beams or box beams (also known as wrapped beams) in some feature spaces. You should think about the following issues when making this choice.

Aesthetic

With solid beams, you can select whether you want a clean-lined, more transitional design or a rustic, tarnished appearance. There won’t ever be a seam anywhere, which is one of the main benefits of employing solid beams in areas that require very long beams. Using box beams, a timber/beam manufacturer or trim carpenter must assemble planks that are normally available in lengths between 14′ and 16′. Although a really good carpenter and painter can neatly conceal the seam by matching the grain and staining, the seam is typically still noticeable if you look closely. Yet, if you’re working with a skilled, superior manufacturer or carpenter, the mitered edge seams should be fully concealed.

In general, box beams lend themselves well to a more transitional, clean-lined design ethos. They are also the ideal beam if you want to paint the finished beam rather than stain it because you can choose a more affordable wood species and avoid having to match the graining. Using box beams over solid beams typically does not result in cost-savings if you want to create an aged, hand-hewn look. Those who prefer antique-looking beams frequently choose solid when constructing or building a custom home from scratch.

Application

Because the old structure was not designed to sustain the additional weight of solid timbers, solid beams are frequently not an option in repairs or remodeling. As box beams are primarily cosmetic and never structural, they can be used in the majority of renovations. Nevertheless, solid beams can be either aesthetic or structural. The solid wood species most renowned for its structural durability is Douglas Fir. When wrapping structural elements like a steel I-beam or Glulam, box beams can occasionally be custom-milled to mimic solid beams. This is helpful when it’s necessary to conceal plumbing or electrical chases inside a certain beam.

Box beams should only be utilized for interior purposes, especially in humid climates (like Houston, Texas), whereas solid beams can be used both indoors and outdoors. The humid climate of Houston can lead to expansion, cupping, and separation at the ends and edges of box beams due to fluctuations in moisture and temperature.

Price

Going with painted box beams is the most cost-effective option for interior decorative beams. If you’d rather have stained wood, you can still save money by choosing box beams made by an experienced trim carpenter. However, be sure to check with your custom builder to make sure they have a lot of expertise in mitering edges and effectively masking seams. Solid woods are your greatest option if you’re going for an antiqued, rustic look, even if they’re one of the priciest options for beams.

Speaking with your architect, interior designer, and custom builder about solid vs. box beams is the best course of action when making this decision for your custom house. Your bespoke builder will be able to give you advice on the cost and availability of wrapped beam planking and solid timbers, as well as on their trim carpenters’ ability to create the “appearance” of a solid beam in a box beam application. Your chosen custom builder should, as is frequently the case, be a reliable source, counsel, and champion for you and your family during this process.