What are purlins?

In timber construction, a purlin is the name for the wooden beam in a roof structure that runs lengthwise in the roof. The purlins run from truss to truss and carry the roof. They are also called girder or roof purlin. A purlin often has a head size of 8×15, 8×20, 10×20 or 10×25 cm.

Oak purlins wind-dried

Purlins are generally cut from softwood, but it is also possible to cut them from oak. It is important that oak purlins are dried before processing. Oak purlins that have just been sawn can warp in the work. This is due to the (still) high moisture content in the wood. It is therefore recommended to use oak purlins that have been wind-dried. By allowing the oak purlins to dry on the wind, the moisture percentage in the wood gets lower and lower. The result: an oak purlin with little chance of operation. An added benefit: the oak has an attractive appearance due to natural aging. Wind-dried oak purlins are suitable for indoor applications.

French oak rafters

Our stock of oak rafters originates from France, where the oak forests have been responsibly managed for centuries. Each year, a controlled number of trees are harvested due to the careful stewardship. French oak wood is renowned for its high quality, thanks to the favorable continental climate and soil conditions that provide ideal natural growth conditions for the oak trees.

Seasoned oak rafters

Our oak rafters are being air dried at our yard, exposed to rain, wind, and sunshine, resulting in a beautiful seasoned surface. Over the course of several years, the rafters develop an appealing patina, adding to their character.

Oak rafter frame

Introducing a visible oak rafter frame imparts a warm and inviting ambiance to any space. The rafters, along with the frames, serve as the foundation for every interior design. Besides seasoned oak rafters, we also offer seasoned oak beams. To learn more about the projects, feel free to explore some examples where the beams have been provided.

Oak purlins in roof construction

Most oak purlins are incorporated into a renovation or construction project. An old gazebo do restored to its former state, or conversely, a new home to be built in the old style. When purlins are visible in the interior, they can create a lot of atmosphere. Such an oak purlin roof makes a space cozy and homey, especially in a bedroom.

Oak stair treads old look

In addition to being used as construction timber, the wood can be applied as oak stair treads. A tough, robust oak staircase with treads 20 or 25 cm wide, for example. An oak staircase is very durable and hard-wearing and suitable in both country and modern interiors. The aging gives the stairs an old, weathered look. A heavy purlin can also serve well as an oak stair tree.

Can the oak purlins be machined?

Oak purlins can be brushed or planed by us. If a tighter and lighter look is desired, planing is recommended. If a robust and old look is desired, we recommend brushing the beams. We can perform both brush and planing operations in our own sawmill.

Is it necessary to treat oak purlins?

If the beams are used as construction timber, that is, as roof purlins, it is unusual and unnecessary to treat the beams with an oil or varnish. If the wood is used as stair treads or stringers, an oil or varnish can provide the desired look. Tip: Test an oil or varnish on a sample first. After application, in most cases it is not possible to undo this appearance.  

What are the prices of oak purlins?

The prices of wind-dried oak purlins depend on a number of factors. Thus, there is a choice of different qualities and appearances. Length also plays a role. Long oak purlins of 5 or 6 meters are comparatively pricier than oak purlins of 3 or 4 meters. In addition, the choice of processing affects the price. Request a quote via this link and send in your desired dimensions and quantities. It also helps to forward the application in advance. We will look in our inventory and contact you to let you know which oak purlins are available.