How to Install Faux Wood Beams on a Cathedral Ceiling

The installation of faux wood beams enhances the look of a cathedral ceiling. The wood beams are light in weight and are not difficult to install. They are generally made of one of three materials: polyurethane, wood laminate or stainable wood. The installation process is something anyone can do by just following a set of simple instructions.

Step 1 - Take Measurements

Using the tape measure, take the measurements of the ceiling. Make an order for the beams in accordance with the measurements you have seen. Use a ladder to make markings on the ceiling to mark out the exact point to fix the beams. Use an angle finder to calculate the angles at each ceiling slope. Take a note of those measurements.

Step 2 – Measure Wooden Blocks

Use the tape measure to measure the inner dimensions of the decorative wood. Using your tape measure again, measure out two blocks of wood for every 6 feet of the ridge.

Step 3 – Attach the Wood Blocks

Using the electric screwdriver, drill holes on to the wooden blocks. This will prevent the splitting of the said blocks. Take a couple of long screws and using the electric screwdriver, drive them through the wooden block and through the sheet rock and finally into the wooden ceiling structure of the house.

Step 4 – Measure Out Block Space

Select a piece of block just like the first one and place it on top of the one you have just installed. Predrill it with holes to prevent premature splitting of the wood. Use the screwdriver to affix the second block on top of the first one. Use the tape measure to measure out block space every 3 to 6 feet to the opposite wall. The blocks will be placed in the measured out spaces.

Step 5 – Mark Position of Blocks

Use blue painter's tape to mark out the position of the position of each block. Next, use a tape measure to measure the length of the ridge. Cut the faux wood beam and make it fit into the ridge. Ensure that the blocks fit firmly into the ridge.

Step 6 – Attach Faux Beams to Blocks

Take up a couple of long screws. Using the electric screwdriver attach the faux wood beams to the blocks. The blue painter's tape should assist in identifying the exact spot to drive the screws through. Use only one screw for each beam. Do not drive the screws hard into the beam. The head of the screw should only slightly sink into the beam.

Step 7– Use Caulk or Filler

Take a small amount of caulk or colored filler and use the caulk gun to fill in the screw heads driven into the beams. When fully installed the edge of the decorative wood will tightly be attached to the ceiling.