How to Choose Box Beams vs. Solid Beams.

Everything you need to know from inspiration to installation. 

Imagine the last time you wandered through a space with a grand ceiling. It may have included large beams throughout and guided the eye to a certain focal place like the fireplace. While you may assume that those are all solid beams, you can actually choose between a box or solid option - either one is beautiful but one may be more ideal for your space.

When it comes to making the decision, design plays a large factor into your decision making. Good design has two elements: form and function. We decorate our walls in colors and patterns that invoke a desired mood (form), while the partition itself establishes space and structure (function). Almost every detail in designing a space, from a bedroom to a boardroom, is looked through those two lenses. However, the form of one large piece of the puzzle is often neglected—and that piece is the ceiling. 

Trying to figure out where to start? The first step is understanding the difference between box and solid beams. 

The pros and cons of Box Beams vs. Solid Beams.

Sizing and Species

• Solid Beams

  • Solid beams are subject to certain sizes and species but show off authentic characteristics

• Box Beams

  • Box beams can be made to any size and wood species 

  • Box Beams are ideal for adding a decorative flair to an existing structure and can be easily palace and/or wrapped around. 

Weight and Accessibility

• Solid Beams

  • Solid beams are heavy and can be hard to maneuver in high ceiling spaces

• Box Beams

  • Box beams are hollow and easier to install

Things to keep in mind with box beams

Box beams tend to be more popular due to the ease in installation, exact specifications and the ability to add to an existing space. If you are considering a box beam, here a few things to consider:

• Know what you are wrapping or the dimensions of the material you are using to mount the beams. You will need to specify this in the quote so that the dimensions are accurate.

• If you are wanting to stain the beams and it’s a high ceiling, we recommend finishing the beam before you begin the installation or we can handle this with our finishing partners.

• Including radius casing, which is a curved casing meant to trim out an arched opening 

  • Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to decorate arched doorways and windows! We at Artistry Millworks can create radius trim out of wood and flexible resin.

Get Inspired with beam installations

The amazing thing about box and solid beams is the versatility you can achieve just by switching up the style of the wood. Maybe you’re going for a rustic look, or maybe sleek and modern lines are more your style? No worries. You can tweak the finishing details from resawn to wire brushing to priming to achieve whatever design you’re looking for. (P.S. We can help you out with this!)

Ready to get your project started?

Check out these FAQs to get started on your next project, then go ahead and give us a call when you’re ready for a quote.

• What wood species do you offer for building Box Beams?

  • At Artistry Millworks, we can create Box Beams out of any wood species! Cedar, Knotty Alder or White Oak for a rustic farmhouse look. Walnut, Maple or White Ash for a clean modern vibe. Perhaps even an exotic wood like Purple Heart, Zebrawood or Padauk for an unmistakeable accent piece. 

• Do you only offer specific sizing?

  • We can fabricate Box Beams of any size! Just let us know your specs and we will source the best lumber for your project needs. 

• Do you have a minimum Quantity? 

  • No project is too small. We can make 1 beam for a mantel shelf or 10 beams to cover a living room ceiling. 

• Do you offer finishing work?

  • We offer wire brushing as a finish option. As for any staining or hand distressing we can recommend local carpenters to assist with the final details of the Box Beams. 

See your client’s beam with this design element. Get a quote today for box beams!