Oak Beam Fireplace Mantels and Shelving
We supply oak beams to fit in with even the most modern of home decor. We have a large selection of oak beams and mantels suitable for any fireplace, whether natural or cleaned, curved or straight. Our fireplace beams will create a magnificent feature in any room.
Oak beams for fireplaces are available in our timber yard in Sussex. We have air-dried oak available or, for an even more rustic look, historic reclaimed oak.
We are experts in bringing your fireplace vision to life. We provide you with a fitting kit that includes threaded steel rods, fixing resin, and even the necessary holes drilled by arrangement.
Take a look at our fireplace beams gallery to see some examples of how our oak fireplace mantels can transform the feel of your home. Do not hesitate to reach out if you need expert advice on fitting your new oak fireplace beam in your home.
A Testament to Timeless Craftsmanship
Throughout every stage, from design to delivery, the natural beauty and strength of oak are celebrated. The result is a structure that is not only robust but also rich in character and steeped in history, creating a legacy that will stand the test of time.
This careful attention to detail and dedication to traditional methods ensure that every oak frame we create is a masterpiece of enduring quality and charm.
1. Design and Planning
The journey begins with your vision, whether it’s a detailed idea or a simple sketch. You’re welcome to bring your plans to our yard or share them via email to discuss with our experts. Together, we refine the design and produce detailed working drawings, carefully mapping out every joint and beam. This stage often involves collaboration between our craftsmen, architects, engineers, and yourselves, ensuring your project is perfectly tailored to your needs.
2. Selection of Oak
We carefully select high-quality oak for its strength, durability, and character. Each piece is chosen for its grain, size, and minimal defects, ensuring the materials meet the highest standards for both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
3. Cutting and Shaping
Using traditional methods and hand tools, such as chisels, saws, and mallets, the oak beams are cut to size and shaped with precision. This meticulous process ensures that every joint fits perfectly, maintaining the quality and authenticity of the frame.
4. Joinery
Mortise and tenon joints, pegged with wooden dowels, are expertly crafted to connect the beams. These time-honoured techniques not only provide remarkable strength but also allow for flexibility, enabling the structure to endure for generations.
5. Assembly
Depending on the size and complexity of the frame, it is often partially or fully assembled at our yard. Each piece is carefully lifted and joined together to create the skeletal structure of the building. This step ensures that everything fits perfectly and functions as intended before delivery.
6. Delivery to Permanent Site
Once the frame has been assembled and inspected, it is disassembled and flat-packed for transportation. All pieces are clearly labelled to facilitate reassembly on-site. If the location is within a reasonable distance of our premises, our team may reassemble the frame for you; otherwise, your builder can follow our precise labelling and instructions to erect the structure, much like assembling a large jigsaw puzzle.
7. Completion
With the oak frame standing tall, the building can now be enclosed and completed with walls, roofing, and interior finishes. This stage seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with modern amenities. (Please note, we do not usually carry out this part of the process.)
Bringing Your Ideas to Fruition
Since the majority of our work is bespoke, all fabricated by hand in our Sussex yard, it is our clients who approach us with a vision or an idea that they would like brought to fruition. At TradOak, we understand how important each project, no matter how small, is to our customers. Occasionally, someone needs help to formulate their plan into a viable project. Neil Peskett, the business founder, and Grant Norman, our Business Partner and Manager, both have a vast wealth of knowledge and true expertise about all things to do with oak and oak framed buildings. They are eager to give you all the advice you need on your choice of oak, including any finishes, such as sanding, planing and waxing, which can enhance the overall result or achieve the aesthetics you are hoping for. Everyone’s home is different, and installation considerations are very particular to each individual’s home. Fear not, Grant and Neil will be able to solve even the trickiest of installation puzzles.