I hate fake beams they always look fake and at least do them in real wood if you must

Thanks for your input. We have a skinny support beam already there and wanted to cover it to look like a large wooden beam naturally stained. I was worried that a real wood casing might look more fake because of seems, wood grains not matching, etc. But I’m just starting to look at these options. I’ve seen some faux wood beams in photos that look amazing!

Here’s a photo of the existing structural beam. It’s covered in paper right now...but I don’t think it is decorative wood that would look good stained.

Can you just paint it the same color as the ceiling? That seems like the easiest solution.

I have seen some beams that you would swear are real wood but they are high-end priced. I have really large authentic beams from the early 90s and, I swear, the fake ones looked as good as mine.

So it is not a fakebeam at all and I still think wood is the way to go so just get it clad in wood.

IdaClaire - I love the idea of an exposed beam and so I want it to stand out. So I definitely would like natural wood color.

Yayagal - yes I have seen photos of faux beams that look real. I have not seen in person yet.

Patricia Coldwell Consulting - I will also look into this option. I’m just worried about it looking pieces together (with the seams) instead of one cohesive beam. Are there companies that specialize in this?

It may be possible to have the wrap boards beveled.....to avoid the visible wrap lines...

I agree that wrapping it in a thin layer of real wood would be best. if it's thinner, and you do the sides first and then the bottom, I really don't think the seam will be noticeable since it'll be so high up. (I'm not a pro though.)

one suggestion: maybe try painting it before covering? I love the way a black beam looks. if you hate it, then it could get a veneer.