Ceiling beam size?

6 years ago

I am building a modern farmhouse with a 17ft. vaulted ceiling. I want to add white beams but I don't know how to figure out the size. I find pictures of what I like- but not the specs.

The first photo is the look that I am going for....the second is my space.

My builder suggested 4 x 6 but I think they may need to be a bit bigger. Any thoughts?

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PRO

Patricia Colwell Consulting

6 years ago

The goal is nice proportion and a good aesthetic perspective. The rules and sizing also applies for hollow or faux beams that are for appearances only. Here are some sizing examples! If you have a 13 ft tall ceiling with a 20 foot span (the direction the beams will go), this room would require a minimum of an 8in W X 12in D X 20ft 8in L ceiling beams.

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Comments (9)

Kathy H
6 years ago
@Patricia Colwell ConsultingGreat info...thank you!
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sherryboberry
5 years ago
Patricia explain your math I need to figure this out for a smaller room. I’m losing my mind trying to figure out scale😬
PRO
Joseph Corlett, LLC
5 years ago
The proportions in your first picture are correct.
3onthetree
5 years ago
There is no hard fast rule, math equation, or "rule of thumb" for non-structural rafters and ridge beams. Their purpose is to emulate the timber frame look, so there are many variables and it is an aesthetic decision.

Not only how high the ridge is, but the wall height. The ceiling slope. The spacing between rafters, and that spacing should be based on some rhythm of windows or design element. Whether you have horizontal tension members or additional web chords. Whether there is a ridge beam, or a portion of flat ceiling (like in the OP's house). Whether there is decorative detailing in the wood or iron connecting brackets/hangers.
S K
5 months ago
How tall are your walls (the starting point of the vaulted ceiling)? can you share a finished pic? thanks!!
Kathy H
5 months ago
My walls are 10 foot and the vault is 17 foot
S K
5 months ago
Beautiful!!!!!! thank you!
home1420
Original Author
5 months ago
thank you...do you know how I can delete the photo?