Decorative box beams can be added to any ceiling.
Box beams are a practical way to add exposed beams to your home, allowing you to create the same look as heavy, expensive lumber with a basic installation process. These beams are constructed out of three long boards, can be stained to match any decor, and are installed against the ceiling by nailing them discreetly to an attachment board. The attachment board is the only part of the beams that is attached to the ceiling, allowing the heavy-duty hardware to be covered by the box beam's exterior.
Instructions
Installing the Attachment Board
1. Measure the distance of the area on the ceiling where the beam is to be installed. Transfer this measurement to a 2-by-4 board and cut it to length with a saw. Make any adjustments necessary for angles of installation or unusual items like pipes or molding on the walls or ceiling.
2. Determine and mark the place where each ceiling joist crosses the intended path of the box beam using a stud finder. Mark clearly each side of the joist to give a definitive picture of its center. Measure the distance between each set of joists, taking into account various inconsistencies with the spacing of the ceiling joists, and transfer the measurements to the cut 2-by-4.
3. Drill a hole through the center of a large surface of the 2-by-4 at each marking. Hold the 2-by-4 up to the ceiling, line it up with the stud positions and mark the position of these drilled holes on the ceiling. Take down the board.
4. Drill into the ceiling at each marking, hitting the stud each time or redrilling as needed until the stud has been found. Position the board back in place on the ceiling. Set a 5-inch wood screw with a washer into each hole. Tighten them all in place.
Building and Installing the Beam
5. Transfer the measurement of the 2-by-4 board to three 1-by-6 boards. Cut the boards to the same length as the 2-by-4 board using a saw.
6. Position two of the cut 1-by-6 boards parallel to each other on their long, thin surfaces, about 4 inches apart. Have an assistant hold them in place and settle another identical board on top of them. Adjust the boards so they make an even box with a U-shaped frame and one open side.
7. Hammer 2-inch finishing nails through the top board and into each side board, spacing the nails every 6 inches.
8. Hold the box frame up against the attachment board and nail it in place every 6 inches using 2-inch framing nails.
Adding Drywall
9. Measure the sides of the box beam and transfer the measurements to a piece of drywall. Cut out pieces of drywall with a utility knife or drywall saw.
10. Screw the drywall against the frame of the beam with 1 1/2-inch wood screws.
11. Cover the edges of the drywall and the screw heads with drywall tape. Apply drywall mud to the taped edges and the wall attachment points.
12. Let the mud dry, then paint the drywall surface to match the walls.
Tags: 2-by-4 board, 1-by-6 boards, attachment board, each marking, each side, , into each