You may be wondering, where do oak wood beams come from. The answer is that they’re sourced from reclaimed oak trees, old growth trees, and hardwoods. This article will explore these and other options. But before you choose your beams, remember that there are some things to consider. First, you should know what kind of wood you want them to be made of. Do you want hardwoods or pine?
Reclaimed oak beams
Choosing reclaimed oak wood beams for your construction project can be an excellent choice for a number of reasons. While they are historically valuable and a great addition to any home, they can also be used for commercial purposes. For example, reclaimed beams can be used for hotels, restaurants, and retail stores. Unlike new timber, reclaimed oak beams can withstand the weight of a full building without warping or rotting.
Old growth trees
Did you know that oak wood beams come from old-growth trees? These ancient trees were once found covering most of the eastern United States, but were completely destroyed by the early 1900s and centuries of commercial logging. Yet, you may not have known that these reclaimed timbers are still visible in New York City buildings. In fact, the wood is even able to provide historical climate data thanks to tree rings. Scientists are currently studying how to recover and use old-growth timbers for new constructions.
Hardwoods
Where do oak wood beams come from? A well-managed woodland in Croatia is the source of reclaimed oak beams. These beams have a history of centuries of use. The country’s extensive history of building block houses and its climatic conditions have helped to produce some of the highest quality oak beams in Europe. It is therefore no wonder that many discerning homeowners insist on oak beams for their structures.
Pine
Oak is a versatile, beautiful wood, which has been used for centuries in construction. It is extremely strong, flexible and versatile. The wood is also able to acquire character through small splits, called “shakes,” which give the beam a worn-in look. Oak is also a warm and pleasant material to touch, with a distinct scent. That’s one of the reasons discerning homeowners prefer oak wood beams.
Eastern White Pine
Eastern White Pine is a popular timber frame species. This pale softwood has few of the characteristics of oak, but it is very strong and holds a stain well. Eastern white pine also doesn’t shrink as much as oak. It is also relatively lightweight, which makes it easy to move during seasonal changes. On the downside, eastern white pine is not highly resistant to rot, and it can be easily damaged if exposed to the elements.