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Finishing Unfinished Beams

General Tools and Materials

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  • Unfinished Beam Sample Unfinished Beam Sample
  • Water-Based Paint Water-Based Paint
  • Paint Brush Paint Brush
  • Clean Cotton Cloth Clean Cotton Cloth
  • Drop Cloth Drop Cloth
WARNINGS:
  • Only use water-based paints. We recommend a quality acrylic water based paint. Exterior is best for the UV protection and durability (even on interior applications).
  • Do not use:
    - oil-based paints (including Minwax)
    - solvent-based materials
    - wood stain
  • Do not use a roller or paint sprayer to apply the paint.
  • Apply paint in thin layers to prevent the color from becoming too dark. Once applied, color cannot be removed.
  • AZ Faux accepts no responsibility for customer-finished beams. If you have questions please reach out to our Customer Experience & Design Support Team at (888) 314-2326 for assistance.

Before You Start

Acclimate all beams by storing them flat in the installation location (but away from moisture and direct sunlight or other heat sources) for at least 24 hours.


Click Here for Care and Maintenance info.

Directions

Unfinished beam sitting on a drop cloth and a damp cloth

Step 1

Clean

Tools:

  • Drop Cloth

Place the beam on a drop cloth. Wipe the beam with a damp cloth to remove all debris. Allow beam to dry completely. Figure A

Beam being painted with a paint brush

Step 2

Paint

Tools:

  • Paint Brush
  • Water-Based Paint
  • Clean Cotton Cloth
  • Thoroughly mix paint. Dip brush into paint and remove excess.
  • Wipe brush on a clean cotton cloth or cardboard scrap so that minimal paint remains on the brush (known as dry brush method).
  • Brush the remaining paint onto the beam following the direction of the grain. Do not paint against the grain.
  • Reload brush as needed.

Painted beam drying on the drop cloth

Step 3

Dry

Allow stain/paint to dry completely.

Step 4

Repeat

Evaluate color and repeat if necessary.