Use False Beams To Add Ceiling Detail

Use False Beams to Add Ceiling Detail

False beams can be used to simulate structural ceiling beams for a decorative ceiling detail. They can be made with real wood, or with manufactured plastic, fiberglass or Styrofoam, and mounted to the existing ceiling for a decorative effect. Prefabricated false beams are attached to the ceiling according to manufacturer specifications. Some use glues or other adhesives, while others require screws or nails. Wooden false beams require trim carpentry skills, tools and mechanical attachments to the existing ceiling.

Instructions

1. Research use ceiling beams in design detailing. Consult home magazines, design websites and books on vintage homes.

2. Plan the configuration, spacing and size of the false beams to create the desired effect. Consider your ceiling height, light fixture locations, room size and room layout. Sketch the false beam configuration. Keep the plan symmetrical and square to enhance ceiling dimensions. A simple false beam arrangement is to place the beams around the perimeter of the room, then cross the ceiling in only one direction with equally spaced false beams. False beams can also be run across the ceiling, from one side of the room to the other without perimeter beams. To add ceiling detail that incorporates recessed lights, false beams can be criss-crossed to form trays in the ceiling, thus creating several boxes for lighting installation.

3. Determine the depth, width and trim style of the false beams to accent and add detail to a ceiling. Prefabricated beams are available in manufactured widths and depths; custom ones can be cut as wide as you want.

4. Enhance ceiling detail by painting or staining natural wood false beams in a contrasting or complementary color. Accent the sides of false beams with traditional crown molding, cove molding or shoe molding.

5. Keep in mind that false beams will make a ceiling appear lower and make the room look smaller. Painting beams a light color help offset this effect.

Tags: false beams, false beams, Beams Ceiling, Beams Ceiling Detail, ceiling beams