Old oak beams

Old oak beams from the ^18th or ^19th century add character to a room, both inside and out.
They give a room the cachet and radiance that only old oak beams can achieve.
In that regard, let the photos on this page speak for themselves.
The beams are sorted by size and appearance making it easy to pick a favorite.

Large, uniform batches of old beams

Looking for old beam lumber with a uniform look and size?
You can find it with us.
For some projects, an architect or contractor prefers oak with a similar appearance.
For this, for example, we have a large batch of old oak children’s beams from Castle Boekenberg in Antwerp.
These beams have a head size of approximately 10×10 cm and lengths of 2 to 3 meters.

French oak beams from farmhouses and country houses

Time for a factoid!
When French farmers built a barn or farmstead, they did not always have access to straight beams.
These were scarce and expensive and better saved for the construction of a chateau or country house.
For a simple barn, farmers were fortunately less picky: oak trees with a curve or twist in the trunk could also be used.
So when a jagged, old rustic beam comes to us, we can deduce that it came from a barn or farmhouse.
Do we come across a dead straight, sleek beam?
Then it is very likely that such a beam comes from a chateau or manor house.

Old beams as support beams

Do the beams and trusses used have sufficient bearing capacity for a roof structure? Most of the range of used beams are more than strong enough for use as construction lumber. Our wood experts are happy to provide more information on this. It is always wise to have the dimensions calculated by a structural engineer.

Old beam ceiling

An old oak beam incorporated into a ceiling can add a lot of atmosphere to a room.
A beam measuring 15×15 or 20×20 cm is a nice size in most interior projects.
In addition to uprights and beam, there are also so-called braces available: short, angled beams that connect the upright to the beam for the purpose of increasing the strength of a structure.
Traditionally, braces are widely used in constructions, nice to include them in a decorative beam as well.

Oak canopy or porch

Old oak beams can also be used in a newly built canopy or porch.
When orienting for a home extension, it is wise to come to the lumber yard well prepared and know the exact dimensions desired.
We are happy to think with you for material selection and joist selection.
For canopy inspiration, take a look at the inspiration page.
Feel free to make an appointment for good advice.
This is always without obligation.

Brushing old oak beams

The used oak beams are brushed by us by hand, which removes dirt and dust.
A labor-intensive method that ensures the most beautiful patina; the beams come back to life completely.
A treatment that is certainly recommended if the choice falls on this type of wood.
It is also possible to brush the wood yourself.

Planing old oak

A planing operation is also possible in most cases.
However, old nails and nails can sometimes throw a spanner in the works.
In such a case, sanding is a good alternative.
The outer layer is planed (or sanded) and the yellow-brown oak color comes out.

Drying old beams

Most of the old beams are stored indoors with us.
It is not necessary to dry the beams artificially.
Because of its age, the beam wood is already very dry with minimal chance of movement.
Want to know more about how the wood works?
Ask one of our employees for sound advice.

Sawing old oak

The beams or trusses can be cut to the desired length with a chainsaw.
It is always advisable to do this as much as possible “on the job,” so that the length measurement is always appropriate.
Upon special request, a beam can be doubled, or one long side cut off.
This sawing operation is sometimes done if the customer prefers one flat side, for example for the purpose of a floor or loft.
However, not all beams are suitable for re-sawing, so always seek advice from one of our timber experts on the sawing risk.

Graying old beams

Some customers are looking for aged beam lumber.
Our advice in this is to let the beams age outside in the sun and rain.
This natural aging takes a few weeks to a few months and is in our opinion the method that leads to the most beautiful aging.
If the wood does get treated with a liquid, for example, it should always be tested on a residual piece.
We are happy to provide that.

Old oak beams price

Due to the difference in processing, appearance, origin and age of old oak, the price for each specimen may vary.
Therefore, the beams are offered in different price categories.
During a visit to our timber yard and workshop, the different variants in our collection can be viewed.
In addition, we can discuss specific requirements and provide a custom quote.

Custom quote

If there is a need to receive a price estimate before a visit, we understand and will send an indicative price.
Please request a quote that includes the requirements such as appearance, size and number.
Keep in mind that longer beams are pricier than short beams.
For example, it is more economical to select two 4-meter beams than one 8-meter beam.