Frequently Asked Questions
Your beam renovation questions answered. Take a look below to see our most frequently asked questions.
Answering Your Questions
Your Renovation Questions Answered
Our team of experts have the knowledge, skills and tools to bring your beams back to life. We often get a lot of questions from property owners as they get to grips with the concept of our fast and mess-free alternative to more traditional methods. We have therefore put together these answers to the most frequently asked questions. If your question is not fully answered here, please feel free to contact us.
Using Our Knowledge
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between what you do and blasting/stripping?
Blasting, chemical, and mechanical stripping can actually remove historic layers of paint and timber. This is a messy, time-consuming and damaging process that can affect the integrity of the timbers and most importantly remove archaeological evidence of the building’s construction. Our process is a non chemical wood restoration process applied to the timber, without the removal of any historic paint or timber layers. As such, our process is fast and clean and does not require the area to be cleared. By applying an additional layer, we are highlighting historic dating rather than removing it.
Do you sell or supply new oak beams or reclaimed wood?
No, Bespoke Beams is a dedicated restoration and renovation specialist. We do not operate as a wood merchant or supplier of raw materials. Our expertise lies exclusively in the professional cleaning and sympathetic treatment of existing historic woodwork already within your property.
What is wood beam restoration?
Wood beam restoration is the process of repairing and restoring the appearance and integrity of wooden beams.
Can you renovate external and internal timbers and beams?
Short answer, yes we can! The long answer is that this treatment is similar for both internal and external beams. We have worked on a number of properties to renovate their external timbers as well as internal works, helping to bring them back to their natural beauty.
Can I purchase structural timber or materials directly from you?
We do not provide a “supply-only” service or sell structural timber. As restoration experts, we focus on the aesthetic and preservation-based renovation of ceiling beams and internal period features. If you are looking to purchase new materials, you would need to contact a local timber merchant or sawmill.
Will the process cause any noise or dust?
No, not at all. The process is completely mess-free and is applied in the same way as paint, so there is no noise. Our process is without doubt the most gentle way to lighten the beams.
Does the treatment impregnate the timber?
No. Our process does not negatively affect the timber in any way. We effectively apply a new layer on top of the existing paints, nothing is removed and historic paint layers still remain.
Does the treatment affect the integrity of the structural timbers?
Our process will have no negative effect on the timber. Unlike blasting or stripping, our process does not affect the timber in any way. We effectively apply a new layer on top of the existing paints. Nothing is removed, thus preserving the structural integrity of your timbers.
Does the room need clearing before work begins?
We do ask clients to clear the room(s) as much as possible before we arrive. Larger pieces of furniture such as beds and sofas can remain in place, but will need to be covered. Where we can, we will work around your furniture. All small furniture and valuables should be removed and soft furnishings like curtains and blinds should be taken down. If the building is undergoing full renovation and the room is clear, then all the better.
What preparatory work is required for beam renovation?
How long will the beam renovation process take?
Most rooms can be completed within a single day. We recommend ventilating the area for 24 hours to aid drying, but because we do not use chemicals, rooms can normally return to normal use on the same day.
What is the substance you use on the beams?
It is a combination of water-based materials (mixed with our expertise and years of experience!).
Is the substance you use on the beams toxic?
Our substance is completely safe and environmentally friendly. It’s purely a cosmetic treatment using water-based substances and is therefore non-toxic.
Is it a chemical-based treatment?
Our substance is completely safe and environmentally friendly. It’s purely a cosmetic treatment using water-based substances and is therefore non-toxic.
What experience have you got of working in/on period properties?
What types of wooden beams can you renew?
We can renovate all types of wooden beams, including oak, pine, and other hardwoods.
Do you carry out structural repairs or beam replacements?
Our services are strictly focused on the professional restoration and lightening of existing wooden beams. We do not carry out structural repairs, beam installations, or replacements. We specialise in revealing the natural beauty of the wood through non-chemical, non-abrasive cleaning methods.
How do you determine the extent of renovation needed for a wooden beam?
The extent of renovation is determined through a thorough inspection of the wooden beam, taking into account factors such as age, condition, and desired outcome.
How long does the renovation process take?
The time required for renovation depends on the extent of work needed and can range from a few hours to several days.
What is the cost of renewing a wooden beam?
The cost of renovating a wooden beam varies depending on the size, type, and extent of restoration needed.
Can you match the colour and finish of the existing wooden beams?
Yes, we can match the color and finish of existing wooden beams to ensure a seamless integration.
How do you ensure the renewed wooden beams are safe and secure?
The safety and security of the renovated wooden beams is a top priority and achieved through proper techniques and materials.
Do you offer a warranty for your renovation work?
Yes, we offer a warranty for our renovation work, ensuring the quality and longevity of our services.
Need Some Advice?
Speak to our Beam Restoration Experts on
01424 902019 to discuss your specific requirements.
