Patio, porch and pergola beams that handle the weather
Exterior beams and ceilings in high-density polyurethane, for the look of timber without the rot, insects and warping that come with real wood outdoors.
For decorative beams outdoors, high-density polyurethane is usually the practical choice: it resists weather and UV and will not warp, split or crack. It is decorative, so anything carrying load still needs a structural member.
Outdoor spaces we work on
Covered patios
A beamed or planked ceiling that makes a patio feel like a finished room.
See patio ideasPergolas
Timber-look members and cladding that keep their finish in the open.
See pergola ideasPorches, gables and overhangs
Accent beams, corbels and trim on the front of the house.
Exterior foam details
Polyurethane or real wood outdoors
Real wood still has its place. Here is how the two compare in the open.
| Option | Polyurethane faux beam | Real timber |
|---|---|---|
| Rot and insects | Does not rot and is not food for insects | Needs protection and inspection |
| Movement | Will not warp, split or crack | Moves as it wets and dries |
| Weight on the structure | Light, decorative mounting | Heavy, and needs support planned for it |
| Carrying load | No. Decorative only | Yes, when properly engineered |
| Authenticity | Molded from real wood texture | The real material |
More detail: can faux wood beams be used outdoors? and weather-resistant materials for covered patios.
What to settle before anything is made
Exposure. A covered patio and an open pergola are different conditions. Tell us how much sun and rain each area gets so the finish and fixing suit it.
Finish. Beams can be matched to your fascia, doors or interior ceiling so the outdoor space reads as part of the house. See color matching.
Lighting and fans. Decide where these go during design, since box beams can hide low-voltage wiring in their hollow center.
Local rules. Ask about permits and any HOA requirements before you commit. The full method is in our outdoor ceiling and patio beam guide.
Installed, or supplied for your crew
Designed and installed
Our crew installs in Sacramento and Northern California, the Bay Area, Lake Tahoe, Reno and northern Nevada, and Southern California through our partners.
See service areasSupply only
Made to order and shipped by freight within the continental US for your own installer.
How supply only worksSee finished work
Exterior projects in our gallery include Sacramento, San Diego, El Dorado Hills and Orange County.
Browse the gallery
Common questions
Can faux wood beams go outside?
Yes, high-density polyurethane beams are suited to exterior use. They resist weather and UV and will not warp, split or crack.
Will outdoor faux beams hold up a patio cover?
No. They are decorative. Anything carrying load needs a structural member, which a polyurethane beam can clad.
Can you match my existing wood or trim?
Yes. Finishes are matched to a physical sample and approved before production.
Do you install outside California?
We also install in Reno and northern Nevada. Arizona projects are handled by our Arizona operation. Elsewhere, we can supply beams for your own installer.
Send a photo and the room size. We will take it from there.
Room dimensions, ceiling height, a photo of the space as it is now, and whether you want it installed or supplied. That is enough to scope it and come back with a rough estimate — free.
In Arizona? Call (520) 838-4766 or request an Arizona quote.
Reviewed by Jeff Lemon, Foamtec LLC, DBA Elite Ceiling Designs · CA Lic. #1065307 · NV Lic. #0094327 · AZ ROC #351501