Beam & Timber Size Guide
What to know about reclaimed beam and timber dimensions, from standard sizes and weights to the differences between hand-hewn and sawn beams.
Beam & Timber Dimensions
Reclaimed beams and timbers come in a wide range of sizes. The table below covers the most commonly requested dimensions, from 4x4 posts through massive 12x16 timbers. For hand-hewn beams, actual dimensions can vary significantly along the length of a single timber.
| Nominal Size | Actual (Sawn) | Range (Hand-Hewn) | Weight/Ft* | Board Ft/LF | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 x 4 | 3.5" x 3.5" | 3.5" - 4.5" | 2.7 lb | 1.33 | Fence posts, porch columns, light structural, furniture legs |
| 4 x 6 | 3.5" x 5.5" | 3.5" - 6.5" | 4.3 lb | 2.00 | Porch beams, pergola rafters, bench supports |
| 4 x 8 | 3.5" x 7.25" | 3.5" - 8.5" | 5.6 lb | 2.67 | Headers, lintels, pergola beams, mantel blanks |
| 4 x 10 | 3.5" x 9.25" | 3.5" - 10.5" | 7.2 lb | 3.33 | Headers, girders, heavy pergola beams |
| 4 x 12 | 3.5" x 11.25" | 3.5" - 12.5" | 8.8 lb | 4.00 | Headers, ridge boards, major lintels |
| 6 x 6 | 5.5" x 5.5" | 5.5" - 7" | 6.7 lb | 3.00 | Posts, pergola columns, barn frames, mantels |
| 6 x 8 | 5.5" x 7.5" | 5.5" - 9" | 9.2 lb | 4.00 | Floor beams, girders, heavy pergolas, headers |
| 6 x 10 | 5.5" x 9.5" | 5.5" - 11" | 11.6 lb | 5.00 | Floor beams, bridge timbers, ridge beams |
| 6 x 12 | 5.5" x 11.5" | 5.5" - 13" | 14.1 lb | 6.00 | Major floor beams, heavy headers, commercial |
| 6 x 14 | 5.5" x 13.5" | 5.5" - 15" | 16.5 lb | 7.00 | Long-span floor beams, industrial girders |
| 8 x 8 | 7.5" x 7.5" | 7" - 9" | 12.5 lb | 5.33 | Heavy posts, barn frames, timber frame bents |
| 8 x 10 | 7.5" x 9.5" | 7" - 11" | 15.8 lb | 6.67 | Major beams, girders, commercial structures |
| 8 x 12 | 7.5" x 11.5" | 7" - 13" | 19.2 lb | 8.00 | Heavy floor beams, bridge timbers |
| 8 x 14 | 7.5" x 13.5" | 7" - 15" | 22.5 lb | 9.33 | Major structural beams, warehouse girders |
| 10 x 10 | 9.5" x 9.5" | 9" - 11" | 20.1 lb | 8.33 | Large posts, heavy timber frames, showpiece beams |
| 10 x 12 | 9.5" x 11.5" | 9" - 13" | 24.3 lb | 10.00 | Major structural beams, barn restorations |
| 10 x 14 | 9.5" x 13.5" | 9" - 15" | 28.5 lb | 11.67 | Heavy commercial beams, bridge members |
| 12 x 12 | 11.5" x 11.5" | 11" - 13" | 29.4 lb | 12.00 | Main columns, heavy industrial, showpiece installations |
| 12 x 14 | 11.5" x 13.5" | 11" - 15" | 34.5 lb | 14.00 | Major industrial columns, statement pieces |
| 12 x 16 | 11.5" x 15.5" | 11" - 17" | 39.6 lb | 16.00 | Bridge timbers, heavy industrial, rare showpieces |
* Weight estimates based on actual sawn dimensions in Douglas Fir at 12% moisture content (~32 lb/ft³). Actual weight varies by species and moisture level. Oak beams weigh roughly 40-50% more. Use our Board Foot Calculator to work out board feet.
Types of Reclaimed Beams
Not all beams are created equal. Understanding the different types helps you choose the right beam for your application, budget, and aesthetic goals.
Solid Sawn Beams
A solid timber cut directly from a single log using a circular saw or band saw. The most common type of reclaimed beam, typically originating from barns, warehouses, factories, and commercial buildings. Solid sawn beams have consistent rectangular cross-sections with visible saw marks on the surface. They offer predictable dimensions and straightforward structural engineering.
Typical origin: Industrial buildings, warehouses, barns
Typical sizes: 4x4 through 12x16+
Lengths: 8 to 24 feet common, sometimes longer
Hand-Hewn Beams
Shaped by hand from a whole log using broadaxes and adzes. These beams predate the widespread use of sawmills and are typically found in older structures. Each beam is unique, with visible axe facets on the surface and slightly irregular cross-sections. Hand-hewn beams are highly prized for their craftsmanship, character, and history, and they are usually quoted higher than sawn beams.
How to identify: Irregular faceted surface with shallow scallop marks from the adze or broadaxe. Often retain bark edge remnants on one or more faces. Cross-section is roughly rectangular but not precisely square.
Typical origin: Old barns, churches, covered bridges, mills
Typical sizes: 6x6 through 12x14+ (as found)
Lengths: 12 to 30+ feet
Box Beams
A hollow beam constructed by wrapping reclaimed lumber planks around a lightweight frame (typically plywood or dimensional lumber). Box beams are used exclusively for decorative (non-structural) applications. They provide the visual impact of a massive timber beam at a fraction of the weight. This makes them ideal for ceiling installations where the supporting structure cannot handle the weight of a solid beam.
Construction: Three-sided (open top, mounted against ceiling) or four-sided (freestanding). Reclaimed 1x stock wrapped around a plywood or lumber skeleton.
Weight advantage: A 6x8 box beam can weigh around 3-4 lb/ft versus 9+ lb/ft for solid Douglas Fir. A 20-foot decorative beam drops from ~185 lb to ~70 lb.
Best for: Ceiling accent beams, decorative headers, restaurant/retail interiors
Glue-Laminated (Glulam) vs Solid
Glulam beams are engineered products made by bonding multiple layers of dimensional lumber together. Glulam is not reclaimed material, but understanding the comparison helps when deciding between engineered and solid reclaimed beams for your project.
| Factor | Solid Reclaimed | Glulam (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Variable; requires individual grading | Engineered, consistent, rated values |
| Appearance | Unique character, patina, history | Uniform, visible lamination lines |
| Max size | Limited by original tree/timber | Virtually unlimited |
| Material Source | Reuses wood that is already cut and milled | Makes efficient use of new lumber |
| Cost | Varies by size, species, condition | Priced as a manufactured product |
Simple Span Load-Bearing Capacity
A simple span beam is supported at both ends only. What it can safely carry depends on its size, span, species, grade, condition, and how far it may deflect, so we do not publish a capacity chart. An engineer works from the actual beam and the actual load.
Depth Matters Most
Bending strength rises with the square of a beam's depth and stiffness with its cube. An 8x12 set on edge is much stronger and stiffer than a 12x8 laid flat, even though both hold the same amount of wood.
Span Adds Up Quickly
Under the same load per foot, doubling the span quadruples the bending in the beam, and sag grows even faster. Long spans often need a much larger beam or an extra support.
Important: Structural Engineering Required
Published design values apply to new, graded lumber. Reclaimed beams require individual assessment by a licensed structural engineer before use in load-bearing applications. Factors that reduce capacity include: checking and splitting, insect damage, prior notching or boring, and moisture content. Always have reclaimed structural beams inspected and graded before installation.
Continuous Span Beams
A continuous beam runs without joints over three or more supports, such as a beam carried on several posts. That layout changes how bending is shared along the beam, which often helps, but the highest bending moves to the interior supports. Those supports also tend to carry more load than the end supports, so posts and footings need checking too. Have an engineer confirm the design, and remember that a splice over a support turns one continuous beam back into separate spans.
Hand-Hewn vs Sawn Beams
Reclaimed beams fall into two broad categories: hand-hewn timbers shaped with axes and adzes, and generally later mill-sawn beams cut with circular or band saws. Each type has distinct characteristics that affect sizing and application.
| Characteristic | Hand-Hewn | Mill-Sawn |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Texture | Rough, faceted with visible adze/axe marks | Smooth or saw-marked with consistent surface |
| Dimensional Consistency | Varies along length, may taper or bow | Consistent dimensions, square edges |
| Cross-Section Shape | Roughly square/rectangular, may be irregular | True square or rectangle |
| Size Tolerance | +/- 1" or more from nominal | +/- 1/4" from nominal typically |
| Structural Capacity | Use minimum cross-section for calculations | Standard engineering tables apply |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Highest character, rustic, one-of-a-kind | Clean lines, can be rustic or refined |
| Cost | Often quoted higher, especially for large, clean beams | Depends on size, species, and condition |
| Installation Ease | More complex, requires custom connections | Standard timber frame connections work |
| Common Origin | Older barns, churches, mills | Later industrial, commercial, agricultural buildings |
| Typical Lengths | Often 12-30+ feet | Typically 8-24 feet |
Beam Connection Hardware & Details
How a beam connects to its supporting structure is critical for both structural integrity and aesthetics. Here are the most common connection methods used with reclaimed beams.
Steel Beam Hangers (Joist Hangers)
Manufactured metal brackets that cradle the beam and transfer its load to the supporting member. For structural applications, hangers must be sized to match both the beam dimensions and the load. Use only the fastener type and quantity specified by the manufacturer — never substitute nails for the specified structural screws or bolts.
Common types: Face-mount, top-flange, and concealed-flange hangers, the last for a cleaner look.
Through-Bolt Connections
A traditional timber frame connection where bolts pass completely through both members, secured with washers and nuts. Through-bolt connections are strong, reliable, and easy to inspect. For reclaimed beams, pre-drill bolt holes to prevent splitting — old-growth wood is dense and prone to cracking if forced. Use galvanized or stainless steel bolts for any exterior or moisture-exposed applications.
Sizing: Bolt diameter, number, and spacing should come from the connection design. Use oversized washers to distribute bearing pressure and prevent the bolt head from crushing into the wood.
Bearing Plate Connections
A steel plate placed between the beam and its support (post or wall) to distribute the bearing load evenly. Critical when a heavy beam sits on a narrow post or when the beam end would otherwise crush the supporting wood fibers. The plate should be at least as wide as the beam. Have an engineer size plates for heavily loaded beams.
Key detail: Bearing area must be sufficient to prevent cross-grain crushing. Wood is much weaker across the grain than along it, and the bearing area is only the contact patch under the beam, not its full cross-section. The supporting member must also be checked.
Decorative Hardware Options
For exposed beam installations where aesthetics matter, decorative hardware adds both structural support and visual character. Options include wrought iron beam straps, hammered steel plates, black powder-coated brackets, and fabricated connectors. Decorative hardware often echoes the historical character of hand-hewn beams.
Popular options: Black iron T-straps, decorative lag bolt heads, forged steel beam brackets, timber frame knee braces with decorative pegs. A local metalworker can make custom pieces.
Structural Engineering Considerations
Using reclaimed beams in structural applications requires careful engineering. This section covers the basics of when and why you need professional engineering services.
When You Need an Engineer
- -Any load-bearing beam installation (floor beams, ridge beams, headers)
- -Removing a bearing wall and replacing it with a beam
- -Timber frame construction or repair
- -Spans greater than 8 feet under any significant load
- -Any beam supporting a floor, roof, or upper-story wall
- -Commercial and public-access buildings
- -When using reclaimed beams with unknown species or grade
Requirements vary by project and jurisdiction, so check current regulations with your local building official in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or your suburb before you start.
Load Calculation Basics
Beam sizing depends on four main factors:
- 1.Span: The distance between supports. Longer spans require larger beams. Under the same load per foot, doubling the span quadruples the bending in the beam.
- 2.Tributary area: The floor or roof area the beam supports. A beam carrying half of a 24-foot-wide room has a tributary width of 12 feet.
- 3.Live load: The weight of people, furniture, and movable objects, plus snow on roofs, which matters in Minnesota. Your local building official can confirm the design loads that apply.
- 4.Dead load: The weight of the structure itself — flooring, subfloor, joists, ceiling below, roofing.
Deflection Limits
A beam does not just need to be strong enough not to break — it also needs to be stiff enough not to sag visibly or cause cracking in finishes. Common design limits include:
- L/360 (live load): For floor beams. A 12-foot beam can deflect no more than 0.4" (12 x 12 / 360) under live load. This is the most common limit.
- L/240 (total load): For floor beams under combined live and dead loads. A 12-foot beam can deflect no more than 0.6".
- L/180 (total load): For roof beams not supporting a finished ceiling. More lenient because some sag is acceptable in a roof structure.
- L/480: Sometimes specified for beams supporting tile floors or other brittle finishes.
Deflection is often the controlling factor for beam sizing, not strength. A beam may be strong enough but too "bouncy" — requiring a deeper beam to increase stiffness.
Safety Factors
Structural engineering uses safety factors to account for uncertainties. For wood construction:
- Design values: Allowable stresses for lumber are set well below the load that would break a typical piece, to cover natural variation in wood.
- Reclaimed beams: Engineers often apply extra caution to reclaimed beams to account for unknowns such as hidden defects, uncertain species, and prior loading history.
- Duration of load factor: Wood can carry higher loads for short durations. Snow loads (2-month duration) get a 1.15 multiplier. Impact loads (instantaneous) get a 2.0 multiplier.
Always consult an engineer for structural applications, and do not treat any rule of thumb as a design value.
Beam Selection by Application
Different applications call for different beam sizes, types, and finishes. Use this guide as a starting point, then confirm structural choices with an engineer and ask partner suppliers what is available.
Fireplace Mantels
Recommended sizes: 4x6, 6x6, 6x8, or 8x8 depending on fireplace width and desired visual weight
Typical lengths: 4-7 feet (should extend 6-12" beyond each side of the firebox opening)
Best beam type: Hand-hewn for maximum character, or solid sawn with heavy patina
Finish: Wire-brushed or lightly sanded, then sealed with matte polyurethane or hard wax oil
Sizing rule of thumb: For a standard 36-48" firebox, a 6x6 or 6x8 beam provides excellent proportions. For a grand 60"+ firebox, step up to 8x8 or 8x10.
Mounting: Non-structural (decorative only). Mounted with heavy-duty steel brackets lagged into the wall framing or masonry. Minimum 2 brackets, spaced evenly. Total mounting hardware should be rated well above the beam weight.
Clearance: Wood mantels must keep a safe distance from the firebox opening. Check required clearances with your local building official and the fireplace manufacturer.
Decorative Ceiling Beams
Recommended sizes: Scale to room size. Small rooms (under 200 sq ft): 4x6 or 6x6. Medium rooms (200-400 sq ft): 6x8 or 8x8. Large rooms (400+ sq ft): 8x10 or larger.
Spacing: For parallel ceiling beams, space 4-6 feet apart for a balanced look. Odd numbers of beams (3 or 5) tend to look more natural than even numbers.
Best beam type: Box beams for lightweight installation, or solid beams for authenticity. Consider ceiling structure capacity: a solid Douglas Fir 8x8 at 16 feet long weighs about 200 lb, and oak weighs more.
Ceiling height matters: In standard 8-foot ceilings, limit beam depth to 6" maximum to avoid a claustrophobic feel. In 9-10 foot ceilings, 8" deep beams work well. In vaulted or cathedral ceilings (12'+), go as large as the structure supports.
Finish: Wire-brushed or skip-planed for a clean rustic look. Dark stain or natural patina both work well against white or light-colored ceilings.
Mounting: Use concealed steel brackets or continuous French cleat systems. Each bracket should be lagged into a ceiling joist or blocking. Plan bracket locations before ceiling finishing.
Structural Headers (Over Openings)
Sizing: Header size depends on the width of the opening and the load above. A header carrying a floor and roof needs far more capacity than one carrying a light wall.
Species matters: Douglas Fir and Southern Yellow Pine are the strongest common softwood species. Oak provides excellent strength but is harder to cut and fasten. Avoid soft species like white pine for structural headers.
Bearing requirements: Headers must bear on jack studs or posts at each end, with enough bearing area to avoid crushing the wood. An engineer will specify it.
Engineering required: Always. Headers carry the weight of everything above them down to the foundation. An undersized header is one of the most dangerous structural mistakes in construction. Get engineered drawings, and check current regulations with your local building official.
Porch & Pergola Beams
Posts: 4x4 is common for light pergolas, 6x6 for most structural porch posts, and 8x8 for larger porches or taller posts. Have structural posts confirmed for your height and load.
Main beams: 6x8 and 6x10 are common on shorter spans, 8x10 and 8x12 on longer ones. Double beams (two beams side by side) can suit long spans or heavy loads. Confirm structural sizes with an engineer.
Rafters: 2x6 or 2x8 are common for pergola rafters that only provide shade. Rafters carrying a roof must be sized for the roof and snow load.
Weather considerations: Exterior beams must be a durable species (cedar, white oak, Douglas Fir, or pressure-treated) or properly sealed. Reclaimed white oak is a good exterior choice, and Douglas Fir works when well protected. Avoid red oak and maple for exterior use — they decay quickly.
Ground contact: Posts in contact with soil or concrete should be set on elevated post bases to prevent rot, or use naturally rot-resistant species. Even rot-resistant reclaimed beams will eventually decay in constant soil contact.
Barn Door Headers
Recommended sizes: 4x6 or 6x6 for standard interior barn door track headers (3-5 foot doors). 6x8 for double barn door installations (6-10 foot combined opening).
Length: Should extend at least 12" beyond the door opening on each side to accommodate the track and door travel.
Important note: A barn door header must support the weight of the door (75-200 lb for most interior doors) plus the lateral forces from opening and closing. The header must be lagged securely into wall studs, not just into drywall. Use structural lag screws, not drywall anchors.
Finish: Match the door hardware style — matte black hardware pairs well with rough-sawn or wire-brushed beams. Stainless hardware complements cleaner, planed beams.
Decorative vs Structural Beams
Not all beam installations are structural. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right beam and plan for building code requirements.
Decorative Beams
Decorative beams add visual warmth and character without bearing any structural load. They are typically mounted to the ceiling or wall using hidden brackets and may be solid or hollow (box beams wrapped in reclaimed wood).
Common Applications
- -Ceiling accent beams in living rooms, kitchens
- -Fireplace mantels and surrounds
- -Decorative headers above doorways and windows
- -Accent shelving brackets and supports
- -Restaurant and retail interior design
Sizing Flexibility
Since decorative beams do not bear load, you have more flexibility with size, species, and condition. Beams with character marks, checking, or minor insect damage that would disqualify them from structural use are often prized for decorative applications.
Structural Beams
Structural beams must support the weight of the building above them: floors, roofs, walls, and live loads. They must be properly graded, sized for the span and load, and approved by a structural engineer.
Common Applications
- -Floor support beams and girders
- -Ridge beams and purlins in timber-frame roofs
- -Post-and-beam frame construction
- -Load-bearing headers over openings
- -Barn restoration and timber frame repair
Requirements
Structural reclaimed beams should be evaluated by a qualified lumber grader or structural engineer. Check current regulations with your local building official.
Installation Considerations
Installing reclaimed beams — especially large ones — requires careful planning for weight, access, and long-term performance. Here's what to consider before your beam arrives.
Weight Handling & Rigging
Large beams are extremely heavy. Here are approximate total weights for common beam sizes at 16 feet long (Douglas Fir, 12% moisture):
- 6x6 x 16' = ~108 lb (2 people can manage)
- 6x8 x 16' = ~147 lb (2-3 people or a hoist)
- 8x8 x 16' = ~200 lb (3-4 people or a hoist)
- 8x12 x 16' = ~307 lb (mechanical lift recommended)
- 10x12 x 16' = ~388 lb (forklift or crane)
- 12x12 x 16' = ~470 lb (forklift or crane)
For oak beams, multiply these weights by approximately 1.5x. A 12x12 white oak beam at 16 feet weighs about 690 lb, a serious lift requiring proper rigging equipment.
Shrinkage & Checking Expectations
Even well-dried reclaimed beams may develop new surface checks (cracks) as they acclimate to indoor environments, particularly during the first heating season when indoor humidity drops below 30%. This is normal for large solid timbers. Surface checks in a beam used decoratively are purely cosmetic.
To minimize checking: Acclimate beams indoors for 2-4 weeks before installation. Apply end-grain sealer to beam ends when the beam arrives. Maintain indoor humidity between 35-55% year-round if possible. Accept that some checking is part of the natural character of solid timber.
Finish Options for Exposed Beams
- -Natural / unfinished: Preserves the raw, authentic look. Best for beams with excellent patina. May shed dust initially; a light vacuuming and wipe-down is recommended.
- -Hard wax oil: A popular choice. Penetrates the wood without forming a film, preserving the texture and feel. Provides mild moisture resistance. Easy to touch up. Enhances grain and color without a "plasticky" look.
- -Matte polyurethane: A film-forming finish that provides strong protection. Use water-based for minimal color change, oil-based for a warm amber tone. Matte sheen maintains a natural look.
- -Tung oil or linseed oil: Traditional penetrating oils that deepen color and enhance grain. Multiple coats required. Allow 24-48 hours between coats. Takes 1-2 weeks to fully cure. Excellent for hand-hewn beams where you want to enhance the tool marks.
Access & Delivery Planning
Before ordering a large beam, measure all access points between the delivery truck and the installation location:
- -Measure door widths, hallway widths, and stairway clearances
- -Check for turns — a 16-foot beam cannot navigate a 90-degree hallway turn unless the hallway is very wide
- -Consider ceiling height at all transition points
- -For new construction, install beams before closing in walls and ceilings
- -For renovations, beams may need to come in through windows or be craned over the building
Reclaimed Beam Characteristics
Reclaimed beams carry the marks of their previous lives. Understanding these characteristics helps you appreciate the story each beam tells and set realistic expectations for your project.
Checking Patterns
Surface checks (cracks) are a natural result of large timber drying over decades. They typically run along the grain and are deeper in the center of the beam face. Most are cosmetic, but deep or long checks should be evaluated on a structural beam. Deep checks can be stabilized with tinted epoxy or left as-is for character. End checks are more common and can be trimmed off if needed.
Nail Holes & Bolt Holes
Most reclaimed beams have holes from their original fasteners — nails, bolts, lag screws, and sometimes wooden pegs. These are among the most valued character marks. Square nail holes (from pre-1890s cut nails) are especially prized by designers. Round holes from modern nails and bolts are common in industrial beams. Suppliers often remove metal, but check for broken fasteners before cutting.
Mortise & Tenon Pockets
Rectangular cutouts from original timber frame joinery. These pockets are signatures of authentic barn and timber frame construction. They can be oriented to a hidden face, filled with a contrasting wood plug, or left visible as a dramatic character feature. Mortise pockets are common in beams from old post-and-beam structures.
Patina Variations
The color of a reclaimed beam depends on its species, age, and exposure history. Interior beams tend toward warm honey and amber tones. Exterior-exposed beams develop a silver-grey patina. Barn beams may show a mix of both — grey on the exposed side and warm brown on the protected side. This color variation is one of the defining features of reclaimed timber.
Wane & Bark Edge
Some beams retain the natural curved edge of the original tree, sometimes with bark still attached. This is called "wane" and is common on beams cut near the outside of the log. Wane adds an organic, natural element to a beam. For structural beams, wane reduces the effective cross-section and must be accounted for in engineering calculations. For decorative beams, wane is a design feature.
Insect Traces
Small tunnels and exit holes from wood-boring beetles (powder post beetles, old house borers) are common in reclaimed beams, especially those from agricultural buildings. These marks are usually old rather than signs of active infestation, but look for fresh frass to be sure. Light insect traces add texture and visual complexity. Heavy insect damage that compromises structural integrity makes a beam suitable for decorative use only.
Beam Weight by Species
Knowing beam weight is critical for planning transport, crane lifts, and ensuring your mounting hardware is rated appropriately. This table shows approximate weight per linear foot for common reclaimed beam sizes across species.
| Beam Size | Douglas Fir (~32 pcf) | White Pine (~25 pcf) | White Oak (~47 pcf) | Red Oak (~44 pcf) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 x 6 | 4.3 lb | 3.3 lb | 6.3 lb | 5.9 lb |
| 6 x 6 | 6.7 lb | 5.3 lb | 9.9 lb | 9.2 lb |
| 6 x 8 | 9.2 lb | 7.2 lb | 13.5 lb | 12.6 lb |
| 8 x 8 | 12.5 lb | 9.8 lb | 18.4 lb | 17.2 lb |
| 8 x 10 | 15.8 lb | 12.4 lb | 23.3 lb | 21.8 lb |
| 8 x 12 | 19.2 lb | 15.0 lb | 28.2 lb | 26.4 lb |
| 10 x 10 | 20.1 lb | 15.7 lb | 29.5 lb | 27.6 lb |
| 10 x 12 | 24.3 lb | 19.0 lb | 35.7 lb | 33.4 lb |
| 12 x 12 | 29.4 lb | 23.0 lb | 43.2 lb | 40.4 lb |
| 12 x 14 | 34.5 lb | 27.0 lb | 50.7 lb | 47.4 lb |
| 12 x 16 | 39.6 lb | 30.9 lb | 58.2 lb | 54.5 lb |
* Weights are per linear foot at approximately 12% moisture content. Green or wet beams weigh considerably more due to higher moisture content. Always account for moisture when planning lifts and transport.
Ordering Reclaimed Beams
Measure Your Space Precisely
Know the exact span, clearance height, and any obstructions. For decorative beams, measure the ceiling length and note any HVAC, electrical, or plumbing that the beam needs to work around.
Specify Your Application
Say whether the beam is structural or decorative. Structural beams require grading and may need to be a specific species. Decorative beams give you more flexibility in species and condition.
Consider the Finish
Do you want the beam left rough (maximum character), wire-brushed (cleaned but textured), or planed smooth (refined look)? Each finish affects the final dimensions. Planing a rough beam can remove 1/4" or more per face.
Plan for Delivery
Large beams are heavy. A 12x12 oak beam 16 feet long weighs over 680 pounds. Ensure your site has a way to unload (forklift, crane, or enough hands). Delivery is available through partner suppliers; ask about unloading when you request a quote.
Ask to See the Beam
Every reclaimed beam is unique. Character, color, checking patterns, and overall condition vary from beam to beam. For important installations, especially mantels and decorative ceiling beams, ask the partner supplier whether you can see the beam in person or get detailed photos of each face.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beams
How can I tell if a reclaimed beam is structurally sound?
Look for these positive indicators: solid wood that sounds firm when tapped (not hollow), surface checks that don't extend through the beam, tight grain with no soft spots, and no evidence of active insect damage (fresh frass or sawdust). However, visual inspection has limits. For structural applications, always have the beam evaluated by a qualified lumber grader or structural engineer.
Can I use a reclaimed beam as a structural replacement for a steel I-beam?
Sometimes, but the timber beam will usually need to be much larger than the steel it replaces, and that may not suit the available space. Always have an engineer specify the size. There is no simple rule of thumb for steel-to-timber conversion because it depends on span, load, and deflection requirements.
Do reclaimed beams attract termites or other insects?
Dry wood kept away from soil and moisture is much less attractive to termites and most other wood pests. The insect holes you see in reclaimed beams are usually old, but check for fresh frass or sawdust before bringing a beam indoors. Follow standard termite prevention practices for any ground-level or below-grade installation.
How long can reclaimed beams be?
Length depends on the building a beam came from, and old barns and churches can yield remarkably long timbers. Very long beams are harder to find and to move, and transport becomes a significant factor. Request a quote with your length requirements and we will pass your request to partner suppliers.
What affects the cost of a reclaimed beam?
Pricing depends on size, species, condition, and whether a beam is hand-hewn or sawn. Hand-hewn beams and sought-after old-growth species (longleaf pine, American chestnut, white oak) are usually quoted higher because of their rarity and character. Pricing is by quote from partner suppliers, so request a quote for specific sizes.
Can reclaimed beams be used outdoors?
Yes, with proper species selection and finishing. White oak and cedar have natural decay resistance and suit exterior beam applications like pergolas, covered porches, and arbors, and Douglas Fir does better than many softwoods when protected. Red oak, maple, and most softwoods will decay quickly if exposed to weather without protection. For any exterior application, a penetrating oil finish that can be renewed periodically is often easier to maintain than a film-forming finish that can peel.
Will my reclaimed beam continue to check (crack) after installation?
Some additional checking is likely, especially during the first winter when indoor humidity drops. Large solid timbers are always in the process of slowly reaching moisture equilibrium with their environment. Surface checking is usually cosmetic, though deep checks on a structural beam should be evaluated. To minimize new checking, maintain indoor humidity between 35-55%, apply end-grain sealer to beam ends, and acclimate the beam indoors for 2-4 weeks before installation. Checking usually slows once the beam has settled into its new environment.