Air Dried Oak Beams
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Air dried oak beams are machine-sawn beams which have been specifically dried by exposing them to the air.
This process involves creating a stack of newly sawn timber in a cool and dry place. The rate in which these beams dry is dependent on the climatic conditions of the area and the airflow around them. For an increased rate of air drying, a continuous and uniform flow of air should pass through the pile of timber.
Depending on the climatic conditions, air dried oak beams can take anything from several months to a number of years to become ready to use. Although this process takes much longer than kiln drying, the natural method results in a much higher quality oak beam. Air drying the beams can make the wood much easier to work and much better when creating difficult shapes or structures.
Unlike green oak beams which often shrink once fitted, air dried oak beams do the majority of their shrinkage naturally before they are fitted.
Natural characteristics such as knots, splits, shakes and cracks are all present in air dried oak beams - adding to the character of the beams and resulting in each having its own unique look.
Air Dried Oak Beams Example Sizes
Dimensions (inches) | Dimensions (mm) |
4" x 4" | 100mm x 100mm |
6" x 6" | 150mm x 150mm |
8" x 8" | 200mm x 200mm |
10" x 10" | 250mm x 250mm |
12" x 12" | 300mm x 300mm |
16" x 16" | 400mm x 400mm |
6" x 4" | 150mm x 100mm |
8" x 6" | 200mm x 150mm |
Where To Use Air Dried Oak Beams
Air dried oak beams can be used for a range of different purposes - be that structural or aesthetical.
Some of the most common uses of air dried solid oak beams include:
- Structural roof trusses
- Oak posts
- Fireplace mantels
- Exterior benches
- Table tops
Moulds
Upon request we are able to add any of our specialist moulds, or a mould of your choosing, to any size of oak beam.
Some of our more popular styles include; Planed All Round/Square-edge, Bishops Mitre and Bevelled with Stop Bevel.
For our most rustic oak beam - take a look at our distressed and aged option, adding heavy texture.