Finding reclaimed mantel beams in 11 inch, 12 inch or large dimensions can be rather challenging. We solve this problem in several ways –

• Joining two beams together, like this one
• Unusually large log cabin timbers
• Building custom box beams from reclaimed material. (we have some great 16in oak currently in stock).

In this case, we joined two white oak 4×6’s together to create this nice 11in depth. We also integrated metalwork so it looks like these two separate pieces have honest method for being joined together. Metal straps look great in this application as well. We can also join pieces together without metalwork.

The color is all-natural. It has not been stained to modify the color. The high-end hardwax oil finish that we use draws out the deep, rich colors in the wood. It creates a very pleasant sheen that is not overly glossy. It has a very nice, natural, touchable feel.

The metalwork was created by Wyatt Bienfang. Each bolt has a unique hand-textured washer as well. It is always a pleasure to get real handwork, rather than mass-manufactured pieces. The bolt head on each one of these pieces is unique and individually hammered. The bolts alternate sizes to create more interest.

LOL, no this isn’t a $10,000 mantel. Deep mantels are usually in the $150 – $200 per LF range, depending on size, species, texture, etc..

The material came out of an early 1900s barn near our home in Norwood, Minnesota. These pieces are probably nearly 100 years old. They have nice grain patterns as well as nice color variation and nail holes. Like nearly all of our mantels, this one is the real thing. It is indeed reclaimed.

About the Tag – This one is an ad from a woman’s magazine in the 1920s. It was a dental powder to help strengthen gums. It contained calcium carbonate (aka lime) which is still used as a dietary supplement but can be poisonous in high long-term usage, magnesium carbonate (also used as a dietary supplement), Borax, Rhatany Root, natural white soap, refined cresol, oil of sweet birch, eucalyptus, sassafras, camphor, and capsicum. By today’s standards, I think the first several ingredients sound more like the makings of laundry detergent than something to put in your mouth. Time change.