Beam Bench FAQs

Can Alabama Sawyer's Reclaimed Wood Beam Benches Go Outside?

Yes, our salvaged wood beam benches can be used outdoors. However, we recommend placing them in covered areas such as porches, patios with roofs, or pergolas to protect them from direct rain and excessive moisture. When exposed to the elements, wood naturally weathers and changes color over time, which many customers find adds to the rustic charm. For maximum longevity outdoors, regular maintenance is essential.

How Heavy Are the Benches?

They are HEAVY! The weight of each bench varies depending on the wood species and base configuration you choose. Most of our reclaimed wood beam benches range from 50 -85 pounds PER LINEAR FOOT, plus the weight of the base. For example, a 4' beam bench on the Corten steel base is approximately 290 lb. They require require a team for careful handling during delivery and placement. 

What Is Corten Steel?

Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, is a specially formulated steel alloy that develops a protective rust-like patina when exposed to the elements. This distinctive reddish-brown coating actually protects the underlying metal from further corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor applications. Many of our bench bases feature Corten steel for its durability, striking appearance, and low-maintenance properties. The patina deepens and becomes more beautiful over time, complementing the natural character of reclaimed wood perfectly.

Can I Customize the Base?

Absolutely. We offer several base options to match your style and space requirements. You can customize from the different materials, including Corten steel or mild steel, which we finish with a black patina. Foot design can be altered to provide more surface area on the ground or to be secured down. Powder-coating possible, as well as wood base. We also work with you on dimensions and design details to ensure your bench fits seamlessly into your home or outdoor space. Customizations are prices per project. Contact us to discuss your customization preferences and create a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

What Maintenance Is Required Indoors?

Indoor benches require minimal maintenance. We recommend dusting regularly with a soft cloth and occasionally wiping with a slightly damp cloth to remove dirt. Avoid placing hot items directly on the wood surface, and use coasters under drinks to prevent water rings. For deeper cleaning, a mild wood soap solution works well. Periodically, you may want to apply a wood conditioner to keep the surface looking rich and protected.

What Maintenance Is Required Outdoors?

Outdoor benches need more regular attention. Inspect your bench seasonally for any signs of damage or excessive moisture. Clean the surface with a soft brush and mild soap solution, then allow it to dry completely. If your bench is in a covered area, this routine cleaning is usually sufficient. For benches in more exposed locations, consider applying a weather-resistant sealant annually to protect the wood. Check the base regularly—if using Corten steel, the patina will continue to develop naturally and requires no special care. Remove any debris or standing water promptly to prevent moisture buildup.

Which Wood Species Are Best for Outdoor Use?

The key to success with any wood species outside is consistent maintenance and placement in covered areas. Even naturally durable woods benefit from seasonal inspections, cleaning, and periodic resealing. When you combine the right wood species with proper care and a quality Corten steel or powder-coated base, you'll have a stunning outdoor bench that lasts for years. From out product line, the benches with pine, either natural or shou sugi ban, or the cypress are the best for outdoors. Our hardwoods, like walnut or beech are not good options. Sassafras is coming soon and is a good exterior wood.

Will Shou Sugi Ban Finish Come Off on My Clothes?

Shou Sugi Ban is a traditional Japanese wood finishing technique that involves charring the surface of the wood to create a dark, protective layer. We seal outs with a 2PK urethane finish. When properly applied and sealed and maintained, the finish should not transfer to your clothes.

That said, we recommend avoiding excessive rubbing or scraping of the surface, especially when the bench is new. If you notice any loose char particles during the first few weeks, simply wipe the surface gently with a dry cloth. This is normal and will diminish as the finish fully cures.

For the best results with a Shou Sugi Ban finish, treat it with the same care you would any fine wood surface. Regular light dusting and occasional gentle cleaning will keep it looking beautiful while maintaining the integrity of the finish. If you have concerns about the finish in your specific environment, we're happy to discuss protective measures or alternative finishes that might work better for your needs.

Will Corten Steel Leech Onto Floors or Scratch Surfaces?

Corten steel develops a protective patina that stabilizes over time, so it won't leech rust onto your floors in the way raw steel might. However, during the initial weathering phase—particularly in the first few months—some surface oxidation can occur. If your bench is indoors or in a covered space, this is minimal and shouldn't cause staining issues on concrete or tile.

For hardwood floors, we recommend using protective felt pads or a furniture mat under the bench feet. This serves two purposes: it protects your floor from any potential marking and prevents the bench from sliding. The felt pads are inexpensive and easy to replace as needed.

On concrete and tile, Corten steel bases pose no real risk. These surfaces are durable and won't be damaged by the steel. If you're concerned about any minor surface marks on concrete, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth will remove them.

If you're planning to place a Corten steel bench on prized hardwood floors, we can discuss alternative base finishes—such as our black patina mild steel or powder-coated options—that may give you greater peace of mind while still maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your piece.

Can't You Hollow Out the Beam Benches to Make Them Lighter?

Our reclaimed wood beam benches are crafted from solid wood beams, and hollowing them out could compromise their structural integrity and weight-bearing capacity. It would also take a very long time and incur an additional cost.

That said, we're happy to discuss your specific needs and space constraints. It would just be a different product. Contact us to explore a custom design, that would not use solid volume wood.

My Beam Bench Cracking!

Wood cracking is a natural occurrence with solid volumes of wood and our wood beams, especially when they're adjusting to a new environment. Our wood has air dried for months and been run through the kiln to remove moisture. However, cracks can still develop for a few common reasons.

Moisture and humidity changes are the primary culprit. When wood moves between different humidity levels—such as from a warehouse to your home, or from indoors to an outdoor covered space—it expands and contracts. This movement can cause surface checking or small cracks to appear, particularly along the grain. This is especially common in the first few months after delivery as the wood acclimates to its new location.

Temperature fluctuations can also contribute to cracking, particularly if your bench is placed near heating vents, air conditioning units, or in areas with dramatic seasonal changes. Rapid temperature swings cause the wood to expand and contract unevenly, which stresses the grain.

Minor surface cracks and checking are cosmetic and don't affect the structural integrity of your bench. However, if you notice large cracks, deep splits, or cracks that seem to be growing, contact us with photos so we can assess the situation. 

To minimize future cracking, maintain consistent indoor humidity levels, avoid placing your bench in direct sunlight or near heat sources, and follow our maintenance guidelines for your specific wood species and finish.

Can I Select a Specific Beam from Your Inventory?

When you work with us on your order, we can show you a few beams in your chosen wood species and dimensions. Since the inventory is heavy, it's not possible to go through every singe available piece. Since it is rough wood before we start, you will not be able to see detailed grain patterns, color tones, or natural markings. We will do our best, but it is not like selecting a piece of marble.

What Is the Lead Time for a Custom Beam Bench or HYO?

Lead times for custom beam benches and HYOs vary depending on several factors, including the scope of your order, the availability of your chosen wood species in our inventory, and our current project queue.

For the most accurate lead time for your specific project, we recommend reaching out to us directly with details about your order. Once the job is secured, the deposit paid and the shop drawing approved, a lead time is typically 6-8 weeks. Depending on the type of shipping, that can add a few days or a few weeks to the process.

Keep in mind that custom work takes time to do right, but the result is a truly one-of-a-kind piece that will be worth the wait.