Surrey Homes | SH31 | May 2017 |Restoration & New Build supplement inside

WT Restoration & New Build Supplement
Total Rejuvenation
Rob Hartshorn from Imitation Oak Beams explains how his company’s hand
crafted imitation oak beams can offer a high quality alternative to real oak
What do you do? “We create uniquely crafted
imitation oak beams to produce the unique effect of a
real oak beam. We save time and money, solve structural
and installation problems and produce an end result
that we believe is better than the real thing. In short we
offer a high quality, cost effective and unique alternative
to real beams and mass produced ‘fake’ beams.”
How does your process work? “A plaster ‘base’ is
created and then we use our artistic skills and specialist tools
to create the knots and graining effects of real oak, followed
by stains and oils to produce the desired finished effect. The
result is as individual as a real beam but with the advantage of
being ‘designed’ to blend with the surroundings and décor.”
Is it messy? “As we use plaster, stains and oils it is
for us! However, we take great care to protect the whole
area. If we’re working in a furnished and/or carpeted
area we’ll cover and tape everything at risk (think ‘crime
scene’) and clear and clean the entire area when we’re
finished, leaving things exactly as we found them.”
Does it work for all types of beams? “We can
create the beams in various situations such as ceilings,
doorways, windows and fireplaces in any shape or
size. It could be a boxed in RSJ, or over brickwork,
but the key factor being that we’re able to build the
plaster ‘base’ first. We specialise in creating very old
looking beams rather than newer looking ones.”
What type of problems do you come up against?
“The main challenge is where the location is not easily
accessible, for example in stair wells and vaulted ceilings.
We need to work very close to the beam to achieve the
detailed effects so having a stable ‘platform’ is essential.”
What’s the most satisfying project you’ve ever
worked on? “All our projects are unique and therefore
satisfying in their own way, but the best part is always seeing
and hearing the reaction of our clients when they see the
finished beam. They are always astonished at how ‘real’ they
look and completely overwhelmed by the transformation
from ‘plain’ plaster to the finished oak beam.”
How much does it cost? “Jobs are priced individually
(we provide free estimates) and depend on the time
required including preparation (e.g. protecting the area
or preparing an RSJ if not already boxed in) and travel/
accommodation if required (we are based in Guildford).
However, overall prices are typically 15-50% less than
alternatives of real oak or other fake beam options.”
Find out more by calling 07771 762000
imitationoakbeams.co.uk
19 wealdentimes.co.uk