When it comes to ceiling beams, builders have two primary options: hollow box beams or solid wood beams. While both can achieve a beautiful finished look, the differences between them have major implications for installation, budget, and long-term performance—especially in non-structural applications.
At Green Valley Beams & Truss, we specialize in high-quality hollow wood beams handcrafted from real ponderosa pine. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between hollow and solid ceiling beams, and help you determine which is the best fit for your next project.
What Are Hollow Beams?
Hollow beams, also known as box beams, are fabricated from three or four pieces of wood assembled to form a lightweight, hollow structure. Though they look like solid timbers, they’re not load-bearing and are used purely for decorative purposes.
They’re ideal for:
- Ceiling accents
- Faux trusses
- Mantels
- Wraps for steel or structural supports
At Green Valley, our hollow beams are made with new wood (not faux foam or laminate), hand-distressed, and fully customizable to your specs.
What Are Solid Beams?
Solid beams are milled from a single piece of timber, often reclaimed or rough-sawn lumber. They may be structural or non-structural, depending on how they’re used. While solid beams can be beautiful, they come with several practical challenges for modern builders.
Hollow vs. Solid: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Hollow Beams | Solid Beams |
| Weight | Lightweight; easy to handle | Very heavy; may need equipment or extra labor |
| Installation | Fast and simple | Slower and more labor-intensive |
| Customization | Highly customizable in size & finish | Limited by lumber size and availability |
| Material Stability | Resistant to warping or splitting | Can crack, twist, or check over time |
| Cost | More affordable (materials + labor) | Higher material and install costs |
| Wiring/Concealment | Can hide wiring, lighting, or ducts | No internal cavity |
| Structural Use | Decorative only | May be structural or decorative |
Why Builders Prefer Hollow Beams for Decorative Applications
If your project doesn’t require structural support, hollow beams are almost always the smarter choice. Here’s why:
1. Easier Installation
Hollow beams are significantly lighter, which makes them easier to transport, lift, and install—especially in vaulted or high-ceiling spaces. Your crew can work faster, with less equipment and fewer hands on site.
2. Fewer Structural Considerations
Solid beams may require special bracing, hardware, or even structural engineering—especially if they’re large. Hollow beams, by contrast, can be installed after drywall and paint, often with basic blocking or mounting cleats.
3. Greater Design Flexibility
Need a beam that’s 12 inches wide but only 6 inches deep? Want a distressed texture with a light gray stain and decorative straps? Hollow beams give you full control over sizing, finish, and style—without the limits of milling or sourcing large lumber.
4. Material Efficiency and Consistency
Because hollow beams are built from new lumber, they offer consistent sizing and surface quality. Solid beams—especially reclaimed ones—can vary in moisture content, surface wear, and structural integrity, which can lead to warping or cracking over time.
5. Cleaner Integration
Our hollow beams are a contractor favorite for hiding electrical wiring, speaker cables, or recessed lighting. The hollow cavity provides a simple channel to run utilities while maintaining a clean, finished appearance.
When Solid Beams Might Still Be Used
There are a few cases where solid beams may still be appropriate:
- When the beam is part of the structural framing
- In restoration projects where historic accuracy requires true solid timber
- When a specific reclaimed aesthetic or patina is needed (though even this can often be mimicked with new, distressed wood)
For purely decorative ceiling work, hollow beams are more cost-effective, reliable, and flexible.
Our Process for Builders
At Green Valley Beams & Truss, we make it easy for contractors and developers to get high-quality, decorative beams tailored to their projects. Our services include:
- On-site measurements to ensure a perfect fit
- CAD drawings for trusses and complex layouts
- Custom fabrication to your specifications
- Delivery and installation, or product-only for builder pickup
Whether you’re finishing out one home or a full neighborhood, we work with you to meet your schedule and design intent.
Learn more about our process.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between hollow and solid beams isn’t just about looks—it’s about what works best for your build. Hollow beams offer the same rich, handcrafted appearance as solid wood, but with significant advantages in weight, flexibility, and installation ease. For most decorative applications, they’re the clear choice.
Ready?
If you’re a builder, contractor, or designer looking for the perfect beam solution, let’s talk. Green Valley Beams & Truss delivers custom, handcrafted hollow beams that save time and elevate every space. Contact us today to request a quote or schedule a consultation.
