If you’ve ever shopped around for materials to build a house or restore an old barn, you may have come across the term ‘hand hewn beams’. But what are they exactly? Are they worth the extra work and cost over regular lumber boards? Are there any benefits associated with them that could aid your project in some way? Well, here’s what you need to know: hand hewn timbers involve more time and effort than traditional lumber boards, but their unique characteristics can add value and character to any project. Read on to learn about all of the advantages of using hand-hewn wood.
The Allure of Hand Hewn Beams & Why They’re Trending
Hand hewn beams are timbers that have been shaped using a broad ax creating a one-of-a-kind texture that simply cannot be replicated by machine. This speaks to the craftsmanship, skill, and time required for hand hewing – attributes that have earned hand hewn lumber admiration and respect as well as a place in modern design trends.
These rustic beams instantly add character to any spaces they grace, infusing them with a sense of history and coziness. People love reclaimed wood beams because they bring a piece of the past into the present in an eco-friendly way.
Identifying Authentic Hand Hewn Beams
To identify genuine hand hewn timber, look for the following:
- Rough edges and tool marks: Authentic hand hewn wood will show evidence of the broad ax used in shaping it with visible knife strokes and uneven surfaces.
- Age: Real hand hewn beams are often salvaged from old buildings, so expect a certain level of wear and tear, as well as slight warping or twisting due to decades of exposure to changing temperatures and humidity levels.
- Patina: Over time, hand hewn lumber develops a rich patina that’s hard to replicate artificially. Look for signs of age in coloring and texture.
Creative Ways to Incorporate Hand Hewn Beams into Your Home
- Ceiling Beams: Exposed hand hewn beams on a ceiling can become the statement piece of a living room, bedroom, or kitchen.
- Fireplace Mantels: A hand hewn wood beam can make for a gorgeous, rustic mantel for your fireplace.
- Shelving: Use these beams for open shelving in your kitchen, living area, or bedroom to display your favorite home accessories.
Door and Window Trim: Give your doors and windows a rustic touch by using hand hewn timbers as trim.
DIY Tips for Cutting and Shaping Hand Hewn Timbers
- Start with rough-cut timber, preferably greenwood, as it’s easier to work with using hand tools.
- Use a broad ax to carefully hew the wood, cutting away the rounded edges to create a flat surface.
- For the most authentic look, work with the natural shape and grain of the wood.
- Finish off the process with a drawknife or plane to provide a more uniform texture.
Hand Hewn Beams & Resale Value: Is It Worth the Investment?
Although there is no guaranteed correlation between the installation of hand hewn beams and an increase in the resale value of your home, these rustic architectural features undoubtedly have a charm that appeals to many potential buyers. The uniqueness and artisanal quality of hand hewn wood can make a home stand out in a competitive market. However, it’s important to ensure that these beams are properly maintained and installed by professionals in order to achieve maximum reliability and longevity. In conclusion, the timeless beauty of hand hewn beams can add a special touch to any home and make it more appealing to prospective buyers.
Ultimately, there is no better way to bring a sense of timelessness and authenticity to your home than with hand hewn beams. Used for centuries, these historical replicas will last lifetimes and add value to any space. Not only do they offer the owner superior resilience and superior structural stability as they are cut from solid hardwood but also a unique rustic charm that captures true history in the frame of today’s living. Installing one of these beloved relics is not just an investment in your home, it is an investment in our history – and one that you can live with for years to come!
