Welcome to our latest video where we explore the fascinating history and beauty of wooden beam ceilings. Join us as we take a journey through time and uncover the secrets hidden within our own bedroom ceiling.
At the start of our adventure, we are greeted by the stunning chestnut beams that grace our ceiling. These hand-felled beams, around 150 years old, bear the marks of an axe, giving them a unique and rustic charm. With just a touch of oil, they come alive, bringing warmth and quality to the room.
However, our initial encounter with the room was far from pleasant. We were met with walls covered in mould and a rather unpleasant stench reminiscent of a pine martin’s set. To our surprise, the source of the damp conditions was none other than the 1970s flock wallpaper hanging from the ceiling. Its weight had caused the spiders’ delicate webs to sag, collecting an abundance of pesky flies.
Spiders, Flies, and Pine Martin Roosts: Ceiling Surprises Revealed!
As we began the process of removing the plasterboard, we made an extraordinary discovery. Nestled within the nooks and crannies of the ceiling, we stumbled upon a thriving bee colony, requiring the expertise of a local bee specialist to safely remove a 2-meter square beehive. But that was not all. Our ceiling also housed a pine martin roost, snake skins, and even several rodent skulls. It was a fascinating, albeit slightly eerie, journey into the history of our home.
Thankfully, amidst the unexpected finds, the chestnut beams revealed themselves to be in excellent condition, with very minimal woodworm damage. These beams, untouched by staining or discoloration, hinted at the absence of an open fire in the room. To preserve their beauty, we will treat them for woodworm and treat them with teak oil.
To enhance the functionality of our ceiling, we made the decision to add 75mm of natural wool insulation in between the beams. This, coupled with a layer of foil to reflect temperature variations, ensures both comfort and energy efficiency. While it may deviate from the traditional French aesthetic, the addition of insulation brings a practical modern touch to the room.
Join us as we embark on this enthralling journey through history, craftsmanship, and unexpected surprises. Together, we’ll unveil the timeless allure of wooden beam ceilings and find beauty in the most unexpected places.