Protecting interior beams

[lancashire]

Hi everyone! Long time lurker first time poster.

I've read various articles and posts on here but now feel more confused than ever! I've got what I think are oak beams in my 18th century cottage - not sure exactly how old they are but they've been covered in cheap looking black gloss paint (yuck).

I've got one stripped down and am wondering about finishing - it would look nice darker if possible, but I'm not against a natural finish - it looks a bit rough and messy yet, maybe needs more sanding? (Also ignore the ceiling, i'll be sorting that out soon!)

I've also got a beam in the bathroom above the shower - I feel torn about whether this would benefit from some seal/varnish to protect it? Or is breathability key?

Thanks for any advice!

 

[Cubist]

Hi There,

Breathability for wooden beams is vital. Paints and varnishes will/do trap moisture behind them and the wood begins to decay, the damp attracts woodworm and similar and eventually the house can be seriously damaged and even destroyed. Treat the exposed timber with a wood stabiliser and pest treatment. A solution of boiled linseed oil thinned with white spirit will help to darken the appearance and help to stabilise the wood.

Cheers,
Cubist

 

[lancashire]

Thank you!

 

[88v8]

Not sure what that wood is, but it will darken with age so I'd leave it be.

For protection against damp, as Cubist says, a 50/50 mix of boiled linseed oil and, in my case Turpentine. That's the real thing, not turps subsutute which is petroleum based.
That will give some protection for the beam above your shower.

I also use that mix for exterior wood such as garden furniture.

Best place I have found to buy genuine turps is online, I think I found it on eBay.

Ivor