Treatment for Exterior Beams

[Richard Nash]

I own a grade II listed mid-terraced cottage (c1540) and am in the everlasting process of maintaining the property in the traditional ways. The property is a timber framed building with lathe and paster walls. I have spent a great deal of time repairing the building with the traditional materials and lime washing the exterior.

I have come to the stage where I have a few exposed exterior beams at the gable end of the building where it holds the roof. They appear to be currently black(ish) and having been in full sun for many years, they are begining to go a little silvery. If level with the exterior walls, I would have limewashed these exposed beams but feel I would loose the contrast.

I would like some advice on how to treat these exterior beams? Is linseed oil the best for this job?

 

[biffvernon]

Just why do you feel a need to 'treat' them. Have they been very good and so deserve a treat?

 

[Richard Nash]

The exterior beams have been very good ladies and felt that I needed to spoil them with a oiling or some other treatment to help protect them from the harshness of the wind, rain, snow, heat, cold and the bleaching sunshine.

Any recommendations?

 

[Nemesis]

Silvery is how wood goes - before doing anything, have you spoken to the Conservation Officer?

 

[biffvernon]

Linseed oil won't do any harm and you might enjoy it. But try it on a little bit first and decide whether you like the darker appearance.

 

[Nemesis]

And ask the CO if this darkening is acceptable as it will alter the appearance and might not be!

 

[Penners]

have been very good ladies and felt that I needed to spoil them with a oiling

:shock: