Anyone know how to Install New Mexico-style Vigas (beams)?
My wife and I are building a home and we want to install five ten-inch vigas that span about 17 feet in our living room. Estimated weight is around 400-500 lbs. of solid pine per viga. The vigas are not load-bearing, but decorative. The ceiling height is 13 feet. We are currently in the framing stage of our house. Should we install the vigas now or after drywall? Any other advice on installation such as bracing techniques, etc. is welcome.
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faux vigas
What is your finished ceiling to be? (Gyp. bd.,wood planks, latilllas etc.) Are your viga's a'natural {debarked) or have they been machined (utility pole) and / or made flat on one side to fit the ceiling? Type of finished ceiling could make a difference in the height you frame the supports. Think it through. Internet search for this type construction/finsh. Get with your builder.
Make sure that the vigas are seasoned/dried. If on a wood framed floor system, make sure that proper support is provided.
In any case, You will want to install vigas after gyp. board so as to better seal and insulate. You could support the vigas similar as you would a door/window opening. (King stud+jack stud on both sides with header/blocking below) Good luck.