Should Your Wood Ceiling Beams Match Your Floors? Here's What To Consider

Exposed ceiling beams are a rare and exciting feature to have in your home — one that should elevate your existing space and personal style. However, selecting the right shade for your ceiling beams requires a good deal of consideration, since different shades can be used to achieve distinct aesthetics. For example, pine beams can create a rustic look, while light oak will look more minimalist. If you also happen to have hardwood floors, the decision can be even trickier, since now you must also figure out whether to match the exposed beams to the floors.   

The decision comes down to a few key points. If you choose not to pair the two elements' colors, you'll end up with a stunning statement ceiling that can give your space a whole new look. If the cohesion of your current space is starting to feel monotonous, a different color of wood beams can also create much-needed contrast. However, be aware that staining the ceiling beams in a darker shade than the floors can make the space feel top-heavy. Since exposed beams already stand out, you can make them complement your space instead by staining them the same color as the floors. Matching your ceiling beams to the color of your floor can create a visual balance in your living space. This is especially helpful if you have very high ceilings and want to create a warm, comfy atmosphere. Regardless of how you decide to proceed, you should prioritize your unique aesthetic preference. 

You have a few options when it comes to the color and finish of your ceiling beams. If you love the look of natural wood, the first choice is to use wood stain. For beams that have already been painted, you'll want to strip the existing paint and use bleach to remove the rest of the color. You can use Minwax gel stain for several kinds of wood surfaces — including your ceiling beams. If your stain turns out a slightly different color than your floors, don't fret. A subtle difference in color can actually create a more authentic, lived-in look. Check out these helpful tips that all savvy DIYers should know before using wood stain.

If you don't like the matching look but also don't want dark beams, you might consider a somewhat controversial alternative. Some homeowners defend the method of painting ceiling beams white. This can be a great option if your goal is to curate a light, airy space and make the ceiling look higher than it is. In fact, pure white ceilings can reflect up to 85% of the light that hits them. However, if you want your beams to be a focal point, it's best to go with wood that offers contrast. And if you love the look of ceiling beams but aren't lucky enough to have them already exposed, HGTV star Jenn Todryk has a tip for making imitation beams look real.