We plan to use a hand-hewn beam as a fireplace mantel in our new home. The beam came from an old farmhouse that had been renovated.

The beam is probably oak and is a weathered grey tone. Is there hope for restoring it to an actual shade of oak? Should we clean it? We're not sure how to go about this and if needed, we will use it as is. Thanks for any tips!

there are lots of ways to get it back to a natural unweathered finish. there are cleaners such as used on decks and fences that clean the oxidation to "new" wood. this would leave the rough hewn look. others would result in wood loss such as planing or sanding, giving a more milled appearance.

the other would be a good powerwash to remove loose fibers and dirt and apply a good outdoor type stain, such as olympic, which comes in a wide variety of shades.

all depends on the look you desire and what the rest of the room and the fireplace surround materials.

good luck.

Thank you so much for your response! I will try the deck cleaner first, see what look I get, and stain if necessary.

I knew that I couldn't stain it as is - I've tried that before on similar wood and it just turned darkish-black.

I appreciate your tip!