Frequently Asked Questions

What is a box beam?

A box beam is a hollow beam that looks like a solid timber but is much easier to install. It offers the warm rustic appearance of a hand-hewn beam without the weight or structural complications of a solid timber.

Do they really look like old beams?

Achieving an authentic look and feel is the single most important thing in our business. We obsess about the smallest details and have a 17 step proprietary process developed from years of experimenting. The subtle almost imperceivable details are what bring the beams to life. So, yeah they look like old beams!

Why not just install reclaimed barn beams?

Old barn beams are lovely but they can bring mold and bugs into your home. They are very heavy, making the transportation and installation extremely difficult. They are often inconsistent in size, finish and quality and contain nails and other metal that make them hard to cut. Speaking of cutting, once cut, the inside no longer looks old and has to be stained to match, which sort of defeats the purpose. Additionally, misplaced mortise pockets (square holes that once held another beam) are a tell tale sign that they aren't original to the space. Also wrapping existing beams isn't possible with a solid beam. Check out our "Benefits of Box beams" for more reasons to steer clear of old timbers.

How do they compare in cost to reclaimed beams

Our beams are around the same price to buy...but solid timbers come with heavy installation costs. These costs include: structural modifications, engineering, permits, transportation and installation. There are many cases where solid beams just can't be installed without serious structural bracing, heavy equipment and a crew of experienced installers. This can inflate the cost by many times the price of the beams themselves. Depending on the job, solid timbers could be 4 to 5 times the cost of our beams.

Can I get a price up front?

We publish examples of our pricing on the website for all to see. This is important because as a homeowner myself I've had contractors and repairmen arrive at my home and suddenly the price starts changing. Before any work begins you will receive a written quote detailing all costs. The quote, design consultation and home visit, are all free and come with no pressure to move forward!

How are box beams installed?

Installation involves securing mounting blocks to the wall or ceiling, trimming the beam to length, and then screwing the beam to the blocks.

Can you install them for me?

We'd love to! We have trained installers offering installation at $200 per beam.

Do you offer interior design help?

Yes, if you have questions concerning placement, spacing, size and finish I have many years of experience in these areas. We are also happy to meet with your interior designer, architect, builder or mother (it happens a lot ).

Can I order just one beam?

Yes! About half of our orders are for just one or two beams. Many homeowners have a ridge beam or a header they would like to make more attractive. I'm still amazed at how even a single beam transforms a room!

What if I need a lot of matching beams?

Because we build our beams from scratch you can order as many as you need... any size, any length, any finish. This is a clear advantage over reclaimed where finding the right size beams, in the finish you want, at the length you need and in the quantity you require is "OMG, why are we doing this again??" difficult!

How long does the installation take?

This depends on a few factors, like the ceiling height and if there are tricky cuts to make. In general, a beam takes about 2 or 3 hours to install, so most rooms can be done in a day or two.

Do your beams require structural support or permits?

No, since our beams are lightweight and decorative, they do not need additional structural reinforcements or permits. It's similar to installing a shelf or wall cabinet.

What if I need it to be structural?

Install a structural post or beam and we can wrap it! Beauty and strength!

How soon can I get them?

Fast! Most orders are completed in one to two weeks.

What is the largest size/length you offer?

We've made beams as large as 16" x 20" - 37' long and as small as 2" x 6" -4'

Each order is custom so let us know what you need and we'll make them up!

How much do the beams weigh?

A 6x6 beam weighs about a pound a foot. This means an 8 foot beam weighs the same as a gallon of milk!

What is your refund policy?

We require a 25% deposit to initiate the order. We offer 100% refund up until we start making the beam. Once the beam is made the deposit is applied and not refundable. Because of the custom nature of each beam and the labor involved, installed beams are not refundable. However, we want you to fall crazy in love your beams so we will work with you to insure you do!

What is the process if I want to order beams?

Call or text us and we'll ask a few questions about your job and provide a quote. If you'd like to move forward, we'll schedule a free home visit to take measurements and finalize the order. A week or so later we'll deliver or install your new/old beams! Yep, it's that easy!

What finishes are available for the beams?

We offer various finishes that replicate the look of aged and weathered wood. We also work with designers, builders and homeowners on custom finishes.

Can I see a sample?

Yes! During the home visit I will bring samples based on our phone call, so you can see it in your space.

What kind of wood and materials do you use?

We use locally sourced white pine, wood glue and stain.

Do you have insurance?

Yes, we carry liability and workers compensation insurance.

What type of payments do you accept?

Checks, Cash, Venmo and Credit Cards.

Where are you located?

We're based in the Hudson Valley in Olivebridge, NY and operate as a local company. This is a huge advantage to you for several reasons: We can take measurements and look at samples in your space, There is no shipping company involved , we do installations and work with local architects, interior designers and builders. Our materials come from Williams Lumber and we hire local craftsman. We love being a part of this community and you can count on us being around for a long time to come.

Do you deliver?

Yes, we deliver within 100 miles of Olivebridge, NY 12461 for a flat fee of $200. This covers Westchester to Albany as well as western MA & CT. You can also pick them up at our Olivebridge shop. Call us if you live beyond our area and we can discuss other options.

Do you ship beams?

As a local business, we don't ship at this time. We hope to offer this option soon!

What if I have other questions?

Call or text Thaddaeus at 646 509 3585, I'm happy to help!

Your beams sound perfect, why haven't I ordered them yet?

I have no idea. :)

P.S. my why...

I started this company because many years ago I built a home and large barn with reclaimed beams. I LOVE the look, but it was just so hard to get. There had to be an easier way!

I now wake up each morning under our box beams and it brings me so much joy! I'm grateful to be immersed in this world and to share this warm and beauty with our customers.

I so appreciate the design collaborations, the friendships and the deep satisfaction of being apart of a community that appreciates natural materials, history, craftsmanship and timeless design.

I've found my people. If you've read this far... I'll bet you're one of my people too!

Please let me know how I can help with your project.

-Thaddaeus