If you prefer the warmth and character of classic architecture, minus the high maintenance, then a few upgrades, such as Decorative Beam Installation exposed beams, can help.
It adds the effects of farmhouse coziness and sleek modernism at the same time. Decorative brsm installation can easily transform a plain ceiling into a statement without a full structural overhaul.
Below, J&B Contracting breaks down the styles, costs, installation steps, timelines, and how to prepare your space for installation.
Why Choose Decorative Beam Installation?
- Instantly adds character: These beams add visual appeal and depth, and help define open floor plans and drawings the eye upward.
- Flexible aesthetics: We offer a beam profile and finish to match any style of your choice!
- Functionality: Box beams are ideal for concealing wires, sprinkler lines, or LED strip lighting channels.
- Adds Value: Thoughtful ceiling design can give off the illusion of an enhanced ceiling height and improve resale appeal, especially in living rooms, kitchens, and primary suites.
Popular Styles for Decorative Beam Installation
- Box Beams (Faux or Hollow Wood)
- What they are: Hollow beams, three or four wooden boards joined to form a half or full box.
- Look & Uses: Get the heft of a solid timber without the weight, ideal for long spans or larger rooms.
- Solid Timbers
- What they are: Real wood (true lumber or reclaimed beams)
- Look & Uses: Authentic grain and natural checking for maximum character. Great as feature beams, fireplace mantels, or short spans.
- Faux Polyurethane/ Composite Beams
- What they are: Lightweight, molded beams that mimic wood.
- Looks & Uses: Ideal for high ceilings, long spans, and second-floor installs where weight
- reduction matters.
- Metal & Mixed Material Beams
- What they are: Wood beams with strap accents, blackened steel, channels, or specialty claddings, depending on your preferred look.
- Look & Uses: Clean lines, strong contrast, works best with recessed lighting and minimalist interiors.
What Affects the Cost of Decorative Beam Installation?
While every project is unique, the cost of your investment depends on the following factors.
- Type of Material
- Faux beams are ultimately the lightest when it comes to budget and labor.
- Box beams in paint grade or pine sit mid-range.
- Solid hardwoods, timbers, or custom millwork cost higher.
- Beam Size & Count
- Wider or deeper beams require more material and may require additional blocking.
- Complex layouts (Coffered grids, vaulted patterns) increase fabrication and installation time.
- Ceiling Condition & Access
- Flat, drywall ceilings are low-cost.
- Sloped, vaulted, or uneven ceilings require extra work.
- Second floors or limited attic access can add time for running electrical or securing anchorage.
- Finish Level
- Premium stains, multi-step distressing, color matching, or hand-hewn textures increase finish labor.
- Electrical & Lighting
- Routing, wiring, adds cost but dramatically increase the final result.
Pro Tip: To keep costs predictable, J&B Contracting helps you finalize the beam schedule and a finish sample before we quote. This way, the price reflects exactly what you get.
The Installation Process & What to Expect
Step 1: On-Site Consultation & Design
We review your space, ceiling, height, and style choice. Next, we confirm your beam layout, choose the material, and finalize the sample. Ig lighting is required, we map out wire oaths, and fixture layouts.
Step 2: Measure, Template, & Fabrication
For box beams, we fabricate to exact width and depth, pre-miter corners for tight seams, and pre-route channels for wiring. Solid timbers are sized and test-fit where needed.
Step 3: Beam Installation
Beams are lifted, set over cleats shimmed as needed, and fastened from hidden faces for a seamless look.
Step 4: Electrical & Lighting (If Included)
Our licensed professionals pull wires, set driers, and install fixtures or LED channels. We coordinate timing for pristine finishes.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Sems are filled as needed, surfaces are stained or painted, and protective topcoats are applied. We complete a detailed cleanup and a final walkthrough.
Maintenance & Longevity
- Dusting: Use a microfiber wand or vacuum brush attachment.
- Finish Care: Wipe any spills splashed from kitchens/baths; avoid strong solvents.
- Humidity: Maintain a stable indoor climate, ideal for wood movement. Faux beams are highly stable if your home sees seasonal swings.
FAQ – Decorative Beam Installation
Do exposed beams lower my ceilings visually?
Yes, unless scaled correctly. The right beam height and spacing can make a room feel taller by creating upward lines and proportions.
Can I install beams on a vaulted or sloped ceiling?
Absolutely! We scribe beams to match the angle for tight points and can run beams along the ridge or perpendicular to add structure and rhythm.
What if my ceiling isn’t perfectly flat?
Most ceilings aren’t. We account for minor waves with shimming and scribing so reveals stay even.
Can beams be installed in kitchens or bathrooms?
Yes, we can help you choose finishes that handle humidity and splashes and keep clearances for vents or sprinklers where needed.
Do decorative beams require permits?
These beams typically do not require any permits. J&B Contracting guides you on any requirements for your jurisdiction.
Are faux beams “believable”?
High-quality faux beams look strikingly realistic once installed, especially with proper seams, straps, and lighting. They also reduce weight and installation time.
Why Homeowners Choose J&B Contracting
We offer:
- Designer first approach.
- Clean installs.
- Reliable Coordination
- Craftsmanship guarantee.
Ready to build?
Ready to Elevate Your Ceiling?
Whether you want rustic charm, coastal brightness, or modern industrial lines, decorative beam installation by J&B Contracting delivers the look you love with expert planning, clean execution, and long-lasting finishes.
We turn your cerling into a conversation topic – beautiful from every angle, built to stay that way!
