The Simple Way To DIY Faux Beams For An Upgraded Ceiling Makeover

There are those lucky few who happen to have a home constructed in a more traditional, craftsman style with old wood ceiling beams exposed to the room below. And then there are the rest of us. But that doesn't mean you can't recreate the warm, natural look of exposed wood in your space. In fact, it isn't difficult to make faux beams and give yourself a stunning DIY ceiling design that will elevate any room in your home. You'll get all the aesthetic benefits of these genuine wood features without any of their drawbacks, like weight or structural considerations. What's more, since these faux beams are so simple to construct — just creating a box with wood, glue, and nails — you can take them down or change them if the mood or need arises. Which makes it all the easier to add your own decorative flair with distressing techniques, light fixtures, or other accessories.

Speaking in terms of design, wood elements of all kinds bring touches of warmth and character to any space. And it's true of faux beams too. Further, this ceiling design idea can make your small rooms look way bigger because exposed trusses lend to the illusion of extra height and length. Since faux beams are lighter, cheaper, and easier to install, they make the ideal option for a simple decorative upgrade. For this project, you'll need wood planks, wood glue, nails, a nail gun, stud finder, and any wood finish you'd like. Gather up your supplies and you're ready to begin.

Start by laying out your wood pieces. You'll need three boards to form the faux beam box. Use a 1-by-6 plank for the center slab of your faux beam and a pair of 1-by-4 planks to create the sides of the beam. Cut all your boards to the length of your ceiling. Your local hardware might be able to make these cuts for you. If you have a power saw, you can create a bevelled 45-degree angle on each edge of the center board and on one edge of each side piece for a more seamless connection. If you don't have a saw, you can simply skip this step. Next, glue the boards together to form the three-sided faux beam box and reinforce the connection with brad nails. 

Of course, to maximize the character you'll be bringing to your space with your new faux beams, you may want to customize it to your home's aesthetic. Finish with a paint or stain that coordinates or contrasts with other wood elements in your home. You can also use a wire brush, hammer, or chain to distress the surface, giving the wood a rustic look. Perhaps add a light fixture or metal beam wraps for some additional character and design details. However you finish it, your ceilings will get a bold makeover with this stunning design trend. Now, you're ready to mount your stylish beams.

There are a couple of ways to go about hanging your faux beams. Keep in mind, this is typically a two-person job, especially with long timber. You can either attach a 2-by-4 wood board to the ceiling or mount a pair of rails made from 1-by-1 wood pieces that will act as the cleat for your beam. The faux beam box will slide over and be mounted to this support base. Both methods will securely hold your DIY beams in place. However, with the railings, there's an extra step of spacing them correctly to match the opening of the faux beam box. Next, use a stud finder to locate and mark the ceiling joists where you'll be able to firmly mount your base wood supports. Drill holes at 36-inch intervals to accommodate the toggle bolts that will affix the plank or rails to the ceiling joists.

Once your support pieces are mounted, you're ready for the final step in executing this eye-catching ceiling design. Add some construction glue to the edge of your cleat or rails before you lift the beam into place. After it's snugly set against the ceiling, use finish nails to attach it to the wood support pieces, spacing the nails roughly 12 to 14 inches apart for maximum stability. Finally, cover any screw holes with putty and you're done. Enjoy your one-of-a-kind ceiling beams.