Skip Planed Barnwood: Hacks for a Perfect Rustic Finish

Skip planed barnwood is the go-to material for achieving a warm, rustic vibe in modern construction and renovation projects. With its aged and unique character, this reclaimed wood instantly creates a sense of history in any space. But working with it takes a bit of know-how if you want professional-looking results.

If you're building an accent wall, crafting custom furniture, or adding rustic touches to your home, these tips will help you bring out the best in skip planed barnwood.

What Is Skip Planed Barnwood?

Skip planing is a wood milling technique that smooths just enough of the surface to make the material easy to work with. One side of the board is flat and clean, while the other keeps its weathered texture, nail holes, and aged patina intact.

This balance is what makes skip planed barnwood unique. The smooth side is perfect for mounting or joining, while the weathered side showcases the charm of the aged wood.

Get Your Wood Ready Before You Start

Let the Wood Adjust to Its New Home

Skip planed barnwood often comes from outdoor environments, so it needs time to adapt to indoor humidity. Stack the boards with small spacers in between and leave them to acclimate for at least a week. This step helps prevent problems like gaps or warping after installation.

Inspect and Clean the Wood

Look closely at each board for old nails, splinters, or loose wood. Use a wire brush to gently clean dirt and debris, but be careful not to damage the weathered surface. Remove any remaining metal pieces to protect your tools and ensure a smooth installation process.

Sort Boards for a Balanced Look

Before installation, sort the boards based on color, texture, and character. Plan the layout so the design looks intentional rather than random. Place the most eye-catching boards in areas that will be highly visible, like the center of a wall or under direct light.

Design Tips

Mix and Match for a Natural Appearance

To create a natural, balanced look, mix boards of different textures, lengths, and colors. Avoid grouping similar boards together, as this can make the design feel repetitive. Instead, arrange them thoughtfully for a more visually appealing result.

Use Different Board Lengths

Vary the lengths of the boards to give your project more depth and movement. Stagger the joints between rows to avoid noticeable vertical lines, and always make sure the joints align with solid backing for secure fastening.

Play with Texture and Light

Combine smooth boards with heavily weathered ones to create visual contrast. The varied textures also catch light differently, adding dimension to your space.

Installation Tips

Choose the Right Fasteners

Use stainless steel or galvanized fasteners to prevent rust. For a rustic look, try screws with finishes like black oxide or bronze. Pre-drill holes near the ends of the boards to avoid splitting, and consider countersinking screws for a sleek finish.

Handle Irregular Sizes Properly

Skip planed barnwood often varies in thickness and width. Use shims behind thinner boards to create an even surface, especially for wall installations. This small adjustment helps prevent gaps or uneven mounting.

Keep the Cracks

Surface cracks and weathered imperfections are part of barnwood’s charm. If any cracks seem unstable, add wood glue to reinforce them. Larger splits can be repaired with decorative techniques like butterfly keys, which enhance the wood’s character.

Finishing Ideas

Clear Protective Coatings

To keep the wood looking natural while protecting it, use oils or light lacquers. Apply them sparingly and test on sample pieces first to see how the finish interacts with the aged wood.

Highlight the Wood’s Texture

Lightly sand or wire-brush the boards to emphasize the wood grain and add depth. Work with the grain to avoid damaging the weathered surface.

Stains for Consistency

If you want to match barnwood to other finishes in your space, use penetrating stains instead of thick coatings. Apply these in thin layers and test on scrap pieces to ensure an even finish.

Advanced Tips

Seamless Transitions with Other Materials

If barnwood meets drywall, tile, or another surface, use trim or moldings for a clean transition. Plan for seasonal movement in the wood so the seams stay intact over time.

Add a Modern Twist

Barnwood pairs beautifully with modern materials like glass, metal, and stone. Use it as an accent to modern finishes for an eye-catching contrast.

Use Custom Millwork

Sometimes, barnwood needs a little extra preparation to fit unique spaces. Custom milling, like adding tongue-and-groove joints, makes installation easier while keeping the wood’s rustic look.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Loose Boards

If boards feel loose after installation, check the fasteners and make sure you’re attaching them to a solid backing. Seasonal humidity changes can also cause movement, so ensure proper acclimation before starting the project.

Managing Moisture Problems

Keep an eye out for moisture issues, especially if the barnwood is near windows or doors. Proper sealing and good ventilation can protect the wood from damage.

Blending Colors

If some boards have extreme color differences, light sanding or a touch of stain can help even things out without losing character. Remember, color differences often look more natural over time.