Ceiling Beams & Trusses
Perfect for vaulted ceilings, rustic homes, or any space.
Hand-Hewn Reclaimed Ceiling Beams
Transform your ceiling into a stunning architectural statement with authentic hand-hewn beams from Weathered Frog. Our 1840s-1860s barn beams from Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas bring warmth, character, and historical craftsmanship to any space, from rustic farmhouses to modern homes seeking that perfect touch of natural elegance.
Why Choose Reclaimed Wood Ceiling Beams?
Every beam shows the adze and axe marks of early American pioneers. These aren’t machine-cut reproductions, they’re genuine historical timbers shaped entirely by hand over 150 years ago.
Our antique hemlock beams contain zero residual moisture after 150+ years of aging. A typical 8″x8″x10′ beam weighs just 100 pounds. This is far llighter than modern treated lumber or heavy oak alternatives.
Despite their rustic appearance, reclaimed beams work beautifully in any design style, from traditional farmhouses to contemporary open-concept homes. Wood with history is truly timeless.
Unlike dangerous railroad ties soaked in toxic creosote, our beams are treated with professional-grade Boracare and Bifen to eliminate wood-boring insects while remaining completely safe for your home.
Ceiling Beam Applications
Exposed Ceiling Beams
Create dramatic and.charming vaulted or cathedral ceilings.
Box
Beams
A lightweight, alternative that doesn’t sacrifice on looks.
Support
Beams
Combine function and beauty in open-concept spaces.
Architectural Accents
Feature beams that define spaces and add visual interest.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reclaimed Wood Ceiling Beams & Trusses:
Reclaimed wood ceiling beams are surprisingly lightweight! Antique hemlock beams contain no residual moisture after 150+ years of aging, making them much lighter than modern treated lumber or heavy oak alternatives. A typical 8″×8″×10′ beam weighs approximately 100 pounds. For comparison, a modern pressure-treated beam of the same size would weigh 150-200 pounds, and an oak beam could weigh 250+ pounds. This lightweight characteristic makes our beams easier to transport, handle during installation, and less demanding on your ceiling structure, while still providing the dramatic visual impact of substantial hand-hewn timbers. And don’t forget, we offer “box-beams” out of our reclaimed lumber to reduce weight even further if necessary for your build!
Our beams can serve both purposes depending on your project. They were originally structural elements in Pennsylvania barns—load-bearing timbers that held up buildings for over 150 years—so we have beams that are certainly strong enough for structural applications. However, most residential customers use them decoratively as faux beams (non-load-bearing) to add character and visual interest to vaulted ceilings, tray ceilings, or flat ceilings. If you need structural beams for actual support, consult with a structural engineer or architect to ensure proper sizing, spacing, and installation. We can provide the beams, but structural calculations and permitting are your responsibility.
We regularly source beams from 8 feet in length up to 40 feet in length, and we can source longer beams up to 53 feet for special projects, depending on our current barn inventory. Longer beams are rarer and more expensive since they had to come from particularly large historic barns. If you need beams longer than 40 feet, contact us with your specific requirements and we’ll check our current and upcoming barn acquisitions. Keep in mind that very long beams may require special shipping arrangements and delivery logistics, we’ll work with you to figure out the best transportation method.
Yes, if you’re comfortable with basic carpentry and have help—ceiling beams require at least two people for safe installation due to working overhead. For decorative (non-structural) beams, installation typically involves: (1) locating ceiling joists with a stud finder, (2) installing mounting blocks or a ledger board secured to joists, (3) lifting the beam into place (this is the two-person part), and (4) securing it with lag bolts or timber screws through the mounting system into the ceiling joists. Because our beams are relatively lightweight compared to oak or fresh lumber, they’re easier to handle than you might expect. We provide detailed installation guidance with every beam purchase. However, if you’re uncomfortable working at height or with heavy objects overhead, hiring a contractor is the safer choice.
In architectural terms, beams are horizontal structural members that span between walls or supports, while trusses are often angled or decorative supports that connect beams to walls or other beams. In practical terms for your home: ceiling beams run the length of your room (parallel to the floor), creating the main visual impact. Trusses or brackets might be added where beams meet walls or at intervals along the beam for decorative detail. Think of the angled wooden supports you see in timber-frame buildings. We can provide both straight beams for your ceiling spans and additional timbers for decorative truss-style accents if you want that traditional barn or cabin look.
Box beams are “hollow beams” that are made from reclaimed wood or “Modern Hewn” wood. They are able to cover existing framing, doorways, etc. Since they are made from historic beams and boards, they have all of the great character and history of other beams.
Box beams are typically more versatile than solid beams. Box beams can be made in virtually any dimensions and length, whereas solid beams are limited to what were actually used in historic barns.
Also, box beams are lighter in weight and are easier to install. This ease typically saves the customer in installation costs.
This answer depends on the product, but in most cases they are 10 to 30% more expensive due to the labor on our end. But, the savings on installation can often save you money.
Delivery and Installation
We deliver reclaimed ceiling beams throughout Texas. For larger projects, we’re happy to work with your contractor or builder to ensure proper installation.
Ready to add authentic character to your ceiling? Call (979) 595-3004 for a free quote today.