Reclaimed Planed Beams - Smooth Finish Antique Wood Beams Los Angeles

Reclaimed Planed Beams

Reclaimed planed beams offer the best of both worlds: authentic antique character with a refined, touchable surface. These remarkable timbers begin as rough reclaimed beams salvaged from historic barns, factories, and warehouses, then are carefully surfaced smooth to reveal the stunning aged grain patterns that have developed over a century or more. The planing process removes the rough exterior while preserving nail holes, natural checking, and the distinctive patina that only genuine antique wood possesses.

At Walter's Flooring, we source the finest reclaimed timbers from historic structures throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, New England, and the Pacific Northwest, then plane them to your specifications. Planed beams are ideal for homeowners who appreciate antique character but prefer a smooth, splinter-free surface—perfect for statement ceilings, fireplace mantels, kitchen hoods, and any application where the beam may be touched or closely viewed.

We also create Box Beams (Beam Wraps) from our planed inventory by removing the insides of solid beams. These wraps cover existing structural steel or framing, providing the authentic look of a solid timber while being much lighter weight. The smooth planed surface makes box beams particularly elegant for formal living spaces.

Beam Surface Styles

Click on any surface style below to learn more about each type of reclaimed beam finish:

Hand Hewn Beams

Authentic axe marks from original craftsmen (1700s-1900s). Irregular surfaces with scalloped tool marks create commanding character.

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Rough Sawn Beams

Original sawmill texture preserved with parallel saw marks. More uniform dimensions while maintaining authentic reclaimed character.

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Planed Beams ←

Smooth finish revealing aged grain patterns. Best of both worlds: antique character with refined, touchable surface.

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Wire Brushed Beams

Textured finish with enhanced grain depth. Wire brushing accentuates natural patterns that catch light beautifully.

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The Planing Process

Planing reclaimed beams is a careful process that requires expertise to achieve the perfect balance between smoothness and character. Our craftsmen use industrial planers to remove just enough material to create a smooth surface while preserving the beam's antique soul—the nail holes, natural checking, color variations, and mineral deposits that tell the story of the wood's history.

The planing process reveals grain patterns that were hidden beneath decades of weathering and oxidation. Old-growth timber, with its tight growth rings and complex figure, becomes truly spectacular when planed—revealing cathedrals of grain, ray fleck patterns in oak, and the deep amber tones of heart pine that were masked by the rough exterior.

Benefits of Planed Beams

Planed beams offer several advantages over rough-surfaced options:

  • Smooth, Touchable Surface: No splinters or rough spots—safe for areas where people may touch the beams, including fireplace mantels and low ceiling installations.
  • Revealed Grain Beauty: Planing exposes the stunning aged grain patterns developed over 100+ years that are hidden beneath rough exteriors.
  • Easier Finishing: Smooth surfaces accept stains and finishes more evenly and require less product.
  • Refined Aesthetic: Perfect for transitional and contemporary spaces where raw texture might feel too rustic.
  • Preserved Character: Nail holes, checking, and patina remain visible—you get antique authenticity with modern refinement.

Some of Our Planed Beam Work

Planed Box Beams
Planed Box Beams
 
Planed Beams
Planed Beams
 
Planed Beams Custom Finish
Planed Beams Custom Finish
Custom Stained Planed Beams
Custom Stained Planed Beams
Planed Beams Custom Stain
Planed Beams Custom Stain
Planed Beams Solid
Planed Beams Solid
Reclaimed Planed Beam
Reclaimed Planed Beam
Planed Beam Sample
 
Planed Beam Sample
 

Planed Beam Species

  • White Oak – Stunning ray fleck patterns emerge when planed; exceptional durability
  • American Chestnut – Rare and valuable; planing reveals warm brown tones and wormy character
  • Eastern White Pine – Wide grain patterns and knots become dramatic focal points when smoothed
  • Douglas Fir – Tight vertical grain and reddish-brown coloring shine when planed
  • Hemlock – Subtle grain with excellent consistency across large installations
  • Red Oak – Bold cathedral grain patterns with warm reddish undertones
  • Walnut – Rich chocolate browns and purple undertones; stunning for mantels
  • Heart Pine – Dense old-growth grain glows amber when planed and finished

Best Applications for Planed Beams

  • Fireplace Mantels: The smooth surface is safe to touch and showcases grain beautifully in firelight
  • Ceiling Beams: Refined look for transitional and contemporary spaces
  • Kitchen Range Hoods: Easy to clean and maintain; elegant appearance
  • Floating Shelves: Smooth surfaces are practical for displaying items
  • Furniture Components: Table bases, bed frames, and custom furniture pieces

Finishing Options

  • Water Base Poly Finish
  • Tung Oil Finish
  • Hard Wax Finish (Rubio/OSMO)
  • Custom Staining
  • Exterior Finish (for outdoor installations)

📋 Request Information About Planed Beams

Have questions about planed beams? Want to schedule a showroom visit or get general pricing? Fill out this quick form:

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🪵 Detailed Planed Beam Quote Request

Need a detailed quote for your planed beam project? Specify each beam's dimensions and we'll provide accurate pricing. Click "+ Add Another Beam" to add multiple beams to your quote.

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Contact Us About Planed Beams

Phone: 213-792-5908
Email: info@legnohardwood.com
Address: 9216 S. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90044

Showroom Hours:
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday: By Appointment

 


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