How to Install Barn Beams on a Ceiling

I wanted to open up the standard double closet with bi-fold doors into the rest of the bedroom and create an open concept closet design by framing out the space with barn beams.

In this case we used the same technique to install the barn beams on the walls as well.

How to Install Barn Beams on a Ceiling

Tools You Will Need:

• Circular saw
• Chain saw
• 2×4 lumber
• Hammer
• Chisel
• Drill
• Star bit wood screws
• Ladder

How to Install Barn Beams on a Ceiling

The first step is to cut the beam to the length and thickness that you want. The less cuts you need to make with the circular saw the better!

How to Install Barn Beams on a Ceiling

Run your circular saw lengthwise down the center of the beam in 1/2 inch to 1 inch strips. Leave approximately 1-2 inches uncut on either side. Make sure the opening will be wide enough to recess a 2×4 or whatever lumber you are anchoring your beam to! It will ultimately form a U when you are finished with step

How to Install Barn Beams on a Ceiling

Here is where you want a sharp chisel, your hammer, good working gloves, and a healthy dose of patience. Just think the last time these beams were installed they didn’t even have electric tools!

Remember the U shape needs to be big enough to recess a 2 x 4 or whatever lumber you will be anchoring it to the ceiling with.

How to Install Barn Beams on a Ceiling

Unfortunately in our closet project somehow I missed taking a picture of this step, so I am showing an example from Jenna Sue Design to show you what I am talking about.  

In this kitchen they are showing you how to create a faux barn beam which is also a great option and much easier to customize to your preferred size, stain etc. The concept, however, is the same. See the 1×4 they have running across the ceiling? 

That is what we did with the 2×4 across the top of our closet ceiling. Anchor the 2×4 with star bit wood screws and make sure to hit studs! The 2×4 then recesses into the U of the beam that was notched out.

How to Install Barn Beams on a Ceiling

This is a close up of the star bit wood screws. We used these on the ceiling beam and the wall beams. You screw them directly into the barn beam and then drive it into the 2×4’s you have anchored to the ceiling.

You can certainly add other beams as you want. We added a vertical beam to in the center of the closet, but this was only decorative so as to visually split the closet in half for a “his and hers” side.

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