Decide On Which Ceiling Beams

Structural ceiling beams are used to hold up and support a structure. Decorative or false ceiling beams are used to suggest a supportive structure, hide exposed wiring, ducts or pipes, or distract from poorly installed ceilings. Because they are decorative, the beams can be designed in any width, shape or material - wood is a lightweight and easy-to-find choice for premade beams. The process of selecting the right decorative beam can be streamlined by considering one of these parameters: the style of the home, the interior design of the space or the ceiling height of the room.

Instructions

1. Choose a ceiling beam according to the style of the home. Rustic style homes look great with hand-planed or rough sawn wood beams. A recessed panel or decorative edge wood beam supports a traditional home - add trim to either side of the beam to match interior trim. Mid-century or industrial styled homes often have exposed steel ceiling beams already in place. If yours does not, add a decorative one or consider exposing one that may be hidden in the ceiling.

2. Select a beam according to the interior design. Rooms designed to reflect a cottage, cabin or outdoor feel benefit from faux-finished ceiling beams. Faux barn or weathered beams can be purchased already painted or stained. Eclectic interiors allow a home owner to choose from a broader selection of beams because the interior does not dictate a particular style. Consider using a weathered, painted or unpainted beam in an eclectic interior.

3. Select a ceiling beam according to the ceiling height. Rooms with a seven to eight foot ceiling height will need a smaller beam thickness to prevent the room from appearing cave-like. Ceiling beams can be purchased in varying heights, including a style referred to as "plank." Plank style beams are typically one inch or less in thickness. A plank beam is appropriate in a low-ceiling room and can be specified in a variety of finishes, including rustic, stained or painted.

Taller ceiling heights can handle taller, thicker ceiling beams. Although there are no true rules to the thickness the beam must be, viewing sample beams in the room can help you make a decision. Place the furniture in the room when viewing the sample beams. Furniture height and shape can affect your final decision. Choose varying heights and widths of beams to view to get a complete picture of the results.

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