Best way to finish exposed beams?
by
Jessica Koch
+6
What is the best way to finish exposed support beams that doesn't cost too much. We are half tempted to just leave them alone but could use some ideas. We have taken out 6 beams. There is one on the right, one on the left and the one lined up with the steel beam in the center.
You can leave them exposed for a cool look!
http://prairiecalifornian.com/diy-project-finishing-wood-beams/
I would leave them. They may be structural and supporting the upper floors. Have you checked if anything you are removing ( walls, posts, beams, etc.) are load bearing?
Just be careful what you remove. Removing any load bearing posts would mean you need to replace with a beam to take up the load. Can't just leave a post on each end and expect that to carry the load.
You could put faux columns around them. They make the columns to cover porch supports.
I assume the sheetrock is gone? I would sister a header up there, supported by 3 more studs, sistered to the existing ones,for more support. I would then box it in with 1x8 s which will accommodate the light switch. You don't want them different sizes, so you'll have to go with the biggest one.
I searched for column covers on both sites and found a few options. There are also column wraps that may work for you. Hope you find what you need.