Articles: Maintaining your oak beams

Oak beams add timeless character and durability to any structure, whether used in traditional homes or contemporary spaces. Known for their strength and natural beauty, oak beams can last centuries with the right maintenance and conditions. Even without treatment, fresh sawn oak / green oak will still withstand the test of time due to its natural resilience, though it will gradually take on a weathered silvergraying as it ages.

This guide covers everything you need to know about protecting, sealing, and weatherproofing your oak beams to preserve their beauty and ensure longevity.

What is the best finish for oak beams?

Choosing the right finish for oak beams can enhance their appearance and protection. Here are some popular finishes.

  • Planed All Round Finish: Oak beams are sawn as standard, having them planed will smooth out the surface and create a more accurate finish. This is especially effective with Air Dried Oak beams as it will strip away any silvering to reveal the typical golden oak colour as well as square up the faces.
  • Natural Oil Finishes
    • Oiling your oak beams will give the oak a permanently 'wet' appearance and will preserve its colour of the oak whilst preventing any UV silvering, so long as the oil you use includes a UV protector such as OSMO UV Protection.
  • Wax Finishes Wax products are a lighter alternative which provide some protection but won't darken the oak as much as oil. Ideal for internally used beams such as exposed joists and oak trusses
  • Varnished Finish Clear varnishes and similar sealants are available when a stronger protective layer is required such as in high traffic areas or in more heavily weathered areas but will give the oak a more glossy appearance and are more difficult the repair than oils and waxes.

How to seal oak beams?

Sealing oak beams is essential for preventing moisture penetration and increasing durability. Here's how to go about doing it:

  1. Choose a Quality Sealant: Select between Oil, Wax and Varnish based on where the oak will be installed and consider whether you'd like it clear or tinted.
  2. Prepare the surface: Clean the beams thoroughly, removing dust and dirt. It is common for beams to be supplied with metal stain and/or water stain, use oxalic acid to get rid of these marks easily and finish with a light sand no finer than P120 grit to ensure the sealant adheres well.
  3. Apply Evenly: Using a brush or roller, apply an even coat of sealant, following the grain of the wood. Allow to dry as per instructions on your chosen sealant and further layers as required.
  4. Maintain Regularly: Check sealed beams yearly and touch up areas that may have worn over time, especially if the beams are in a damp environment. For oiled oak beams, the recommended reapplication is every 3 - 5 years.

How do you protect oak beams?

Protection for oak beams are a combination of further treatment and best practices. Follow the below methods to prolong your oak beams.

  • Consider adding surface treatment to place a barrier between your oak beams and the elements.
  • Regular cleaning to remove dirt, dust and other contaminants
  • Ensure proper the oak beams are not subject to standing water when used externally by utilizing post bases and other solutions.
  • Install the oak beams in a well ventilated area and try to maintain a consistent temperature to prevent rapid expansion and contraction.

How do you weatherproof oak?

Oak beams are very durable and can be left untreated when used externally, however, to further weatherproof your oak beams you can do the following:

  • Use oxalic acid crystals to remove any metal stain and water stain. You can buy a premixed mixed solution from AG woodcare here.
  • Apply a weatherproof sealant. Opt for a sealant specifically designed for outdoor wood protection, ideally with UV and water resistance. This will protect against excessive moisture movement and UV bleaching.
  • Inspect on a regular basis and reapply sealants as needed. Particularly with oil based sealant.

In summary, proper sealing, cleaning, and maintenance are essential to preserving the timeless aesthetic of oak beams. With regular care, your oak beams will continue to enhance your space, standing strong and beautiful for years to come.