Finding your Reclaimed Beams and Timbers. It's all about knowing what you want.
Hand Hewn or Circle Sawn Beam?
When visualizing what you want your reclaimed barn beam or timber to look like, there are two options to consider.
The first is hand-hewn. Hand-hewn timbers were shaped by craftsman, often more than a century ago, using nothing but the axe. The resulting "chunky" texture with remaining axe marks is a highly sought, authentic rustic look.
The second option is circle-sawn. Circle-sawn beams were shaped in a saw mill, and do not feature the axe-marks of a hand-hewn. They are smoother, and will sometimes feature rough-sawn texture.
Mantel or Structural Beam?
Is your timber going to be used as a wood fireplace mantel, or are you looking to build beams into the structure of your home?
Pre-Finishing A Mantel
If your timber is going to be used as a mantel, you will have the option of having it pre-finished with one of several shades of wax-oil finish.
Otherwise, your timbers will come to you unfinished, so you will want to discuss finishing options with your contractor.
Dimensions and Lineal Footage
By "dimensions," we mean thickness of your timber. Common dimensions are 6" x 6", 8" x 8", 8" x 10", and 4" x 7", but we inventory a wide variety of dimensions.
By "lineal footage," we mean how long do you need your timber or timbers to be?
Ordering, Delivery and Timeline Expectations
Lead times for reclaimed beams and timbers can vary from two to five weeks, so you will want to have a good idea of when you want your material on site and take this into account while planning.