Barn Beams: an old world appeal with a new world sustainability

Barn beams come from the framing and floor system of a barn.  The floor system in a barn is made from what are called “sleepers”.  Barn beams come in a variety of species and also come hewn or sawn.  Whether for architectural, structural or aesthetic purposes, they offer an unmatched look to any historic or sustainable restorations.

Cantalievered barn sleepers intact in barn

Hand hewn barn beams used in restoration of log home

Hand hewn barn framing

Hand hewn barn beams in restored 1800's farmhouse

 

Uses for barn beams:

Barn beams are used in several applications.  They are often used for re-saw material to be cut into 1″ flooring boards.  They are also used for structural and architectural purposes in either the framing or interior aesthetics.

Hewn vs. Sawn

Hewn barn beams are beams that are cut with an axe and date to the 1800′s or earlier.  Sawn beams have a smoother finish.  There are several types of saw marks ranging from vertical, mill or circular sawn.

Sleepers

Sleepers are the beams used for the floor joist in a barn. Sleepers are most often hewn on the top and bottom and have natural edges on the sides.  An advantage to a sleeper vs. upper framing is that there are no mortise holes on sleepers.

Species of barn beams:

Barn beams come in every species of wood. The most common are oak, pine, hemlock and chestnut.