What's included
- Tops, sides and bottoms of exposed wood and steel beams
- Rafters, purlins and collar ties
- Cobweb removal at beam pockets and connections
- Degreasing beams near kitchens and fireplaces
Not included
- Refinishing, staining or painting
- Structural inspection or repair
Why it matters
Beam tops are flat shelves that gather dust, insects and cobwebs, which drift down when doors open or the HVAC runs.
More on why it matters
Rustic and timber-frame restaurants, breweries and venues rely on beams as a design feature, and cobwebs ruin the look.
Grease-laden dust on beams near cooking areas is harder to remove the longer it sits.
How AELC providers clean beams and rafters
Every provider follows the AELC Source-Control Method: capture the dust, don't move it.
- IdentifyMeasure beam lengths, note heights, finishes and grease, and choose the reach class.
- ProtectCover tables and equipment beneath the work.
- CaptureVacuum beam tops with a HEPA source-capture vacuum and beam-top tool on a high-reach pole.
- ContainDamp-wipe sides and bottoms with finish-safe methods.
- VerifyCheck tops from a lift or mezzanine where available, and photograph.
How often, and how it's priced
Recommended frequency
| Restaurants and breweries | Every 3 to 6 months |
| Churches and venues | Every 6 to 12 months |
| Warehouses | Every 12 months |
Pricing is local
Your local AELC Certified Provider sets the price for your space. What affects it:
- How many beams and rafters you have
- Height and access
- Dust, grease or buildup
- One-time reset or recurring schedule
DIY tips between professional visits
- Never climb onto beams or use unsecured ladders to reach them.
Safety: when work stops
- Lift work is Elevated Access with a trained operator.
- Stop if dust may contain hazardous material or if there is evidence of pests or droppings in large quantities.
See all red-light conditions and what AELC does not do.
Who needs it most
Beam and Rafter Cleaning: FAQ
How do you clean the tops of high beams?
With HEPA source-capture vacuums on high-reach poles fitted with tools shaped for beam tops, so dust is pulled in rather than pushed off. Very high beams use a lift.
What affects the price of beam cleaning?
The length and size of the beams, their height, grease or dust load and access. Your local AELC provider sets the price after reviewing your space.
Last updated October 4, 2026. Reviewed by the AELC Method team. Local services are performed by independently owned AELC Certified Providers. Above Eye Level Cleaning.