Your Best Guide to Stripping and Finishing Older Wood Beams: What You Should Know
Most everyone loves the look of exposed wood beams in their home, whether they form an integral part of the structure or are just a decorative component found in their living room area or outside. The truth is that they have a unique and distinctive look, and many homes dating back a few years (or a few centuries!) boast them. But this is where it gets tricky – if you've had them for years and look tired and worn and have suffered much wear and tear, merely applying a new coat of paint isn't enough. And what if you're tired of using paint altogether and would instead like to showcase the wood beam's original appeal, as is the case with stunning oak beams? If your wood beams are adequately treated and restored, they can breathe new life into your abode. And often, the first step is stripping and finishing them. But you have to be careful, so here's your best guide to stripping and finishing older wood beams: what you should know.
Stripping
To make it look delightfully rustic and authentic, you can strip it so you can remove old paint and other finishes or varnishes. But, before you strip it, have an expert in beam renovation company check it first to see how strong the wood is; they can advise you on what remover or stripper to use – alternatively, they can do it themselves, leaving you with less worry and stress!
The point with stripping is that it gives you a blank slate – which means you can achieve the best results. You can use products like Paint Panther; other alternative paint removers or strippers will work as well. But before you begin, test the remover or stripper on a particular area first to make sure it is suitable. Next, perform a sample kit or pack test to determine different variables, like the working time and how thick the remover or stripper should be. Then, ensure that you follow it with sanding to prepare the surface for refinishing.
Finishing
If you want to create a more rugged and striking look that will make your wood beams stand out in sharp contrast to your walls or flooring, you could apply a finish with some colour, such as a wood stain. One example of a good wood stain is Manns Classic, perfect for oak as it is water-based. Another choice is Liberon wood dye, which is also water-based and has a stronger colour whilst still showcasing the grain of the wood. Of course, you can always consult with the beam renovation or restoration specialist to know which products work best.
After applying the appropriate finish to the wood beam, make sure you seal it using a wood oil or varnish. If the change of colour is minimal, you can go with wax.
There are also some products which do the job of sealing plus colouring and protecting, such as an oil tint, and if you would like something a bit more authentic and rustic, you could go for a coloured wax. On the other hand, you could go for a pigmented wax for a more vintage and aged appeal, which gives untreated new wood a more rugged appeal. On the other hand, if you don't want to change the colour of the wood, you can always go for a clear oil such as Linseed oil, which also protects and nourishes the wood.
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