What Are The Best Colors To Paint Ceiling Beams?

Different beams or rafters along your ceiling can stand out or be utterly unnoticeable, all depending on how they’re finished. How you choose to paint your ceiling beams will depend on the decor of your home. Use this as a guide to select the best color for your ceiling beams.

You can paint ceiling beams in various colors, all with different results depending on the style of your home. The most common colors to paint ceiling beams are white, off-white, and grey. However, for some, leaving ceiling beams unpainted is the way to go, selecting from many available natural wood stains.

High ceilings are often thought of as an added benefit to any home. However, if they’re too high, they can make the room feel cold. If your ceilings are too high, consider painting the beams a color that makes the ceiling feel and look lower.

Dark colors typically make a room feel smaller and more comfortable. Painting beams black can make the ceiling appear lower than it actually is. If black beams aren’t your preference, you can be bold and paint the ceiling black, instead.

Whether your ceiling is painted or a natural wood finish, painting the ceiling beams a contrasting color draws attention to them. This can enhance the theme of your room and draw attention to the beams.

If you like a light and airy look, paint the ceiling and walls a light grey color. You can paint your ceiling beams white for a classic look or navy for a more nautical look. You can also use a favorite decor piece and paint your ceiling beams the same color, tying the room together.

When you have tall ceilings, don’t be afraid to try something different. If you prefer a more bohemian look, paint the ceiling a deep mauve and paint the beams a pastel color. This combination is not for everyone, but it can make a room feel exotic.

Outdoor neutrals are another great option when painting your ceiling beams. If your ceiling is white, try to incorporate neutral colors by painting the beams beige, tan, or even blue.

If you want to bring the outside in even more, deep greens break the mold of typical beams. Plus, this color selection can also give your room more character.

Just because a color is neutral doesn’t mean it has to be boring. There are several ways to pull away from the usual neutral colors and try something exciting and different instead.

If you’ve purchased a house with beams that are already painted, or you’re looking for a change, a faux finish can work. Trying to strip paint can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. A faux-finished beam can give you the look of natural wood without the hassle of removing the previous paint.

Before beginning the project, pick the base wood color you prefer. You have many options for this, light-colored, dark-colored, aged, or a weathered look. Mix the top wood color with a glaze, brush it on the beam, then comb through it with a wood-graining tool.

If you want to add faux wood knots, use a wood grain rocker tool in the same manner. You simply rock the tool back and forth across the beams.

If you don’t like the look of your ceiling beams, you have options. Wood veneer sheets are an easy way to enhance your ceiling beams. These sheets are perforated and come with construction adhesive and finishing nails.

Wood veneer panels and sheets are available in a variety of styles like pine, fine-grain spice, cherry wood, and more. If you want a more antique look, you can purchase weathered wood veneer sheets. Make sure to secure heavier veneer to beams with the proper adhesive and nails.

Related Questions

What is the average cost to install ceiling beams?

Ultimately, the cost to install ceiling beams in your home will depend on the location and size of the job. On average, installing decorative beams costs $7.49 per linear foot. The price can range from $6.72 to $8.26. The average price for labor and materials per linear foot is $18.13 ranges from $15.12 to $21.14. A typical 100 linear foot project costs about $1,812.87. This project has a price range of $1,511.77 to $2,113.98. 

How do you clean ceiling beams?

When you’re ready to start spring cleaning, don’t forget about your ceiling beams, too. Always have someone near when you’re cleaning your beams as you will have to use a ladder. Use a cleaning solution of warm water and wood soap. Use a dry lamb’s wool cover over a paint roller and dip it into a cleaning solution. Use the paint roller to roll over the ceiling beams in the direction of the wood grain. Mix two parts water with one part vinegar for a more natural cleaning solution and wipe the beam’s surface.

Do my ceiling beams have to match my floor?

When updating an element of a room in your home, there must be harmony with the rest of the space. This applies to the ceiling and floor, as well. However, if you have exposed ceiling beams, your floors do not necessarily have to match precisely. While the ceiling and beams do not have to match, they need to work well together. In certain situations, matching ceiling beams and floors can actually impact the room negatively. If you have dark beams and dark floors, the room can become too oppressive. Furthermore, if your ceiling beams and floors don’t go together at all, the room can feel and look awkward. Keep in mind the visual impact when planning the color of your ceiling beams and your floors. The undertones should contrast but not clash.