Are Custom Faux Wood Beams Right for You?

With Volterra’s large collection of faux wood beams, it can be difficult to determine which option is best for you. Our custom faux beams are a popular choice, as they make it easier to find the perfect addition to your space.

If you’re wondering whether or not faux wood beams are the right choice for you, you’ve come to the right place. We hope to help in your decision by sharing four signs that our custom beams are for you.

custom faux wood beams

You Have a Unique Ceiling Structure Where Custom Sizes Are Needed

One of the main reasons our customers opt for custom faux beams is because they need specific sizes that aren’t available with ready-made beams. With Volterra’s custom beams, you can get the perfect size, length, and width for your ceiling without having to make any pesky alterations yourself.

custom faux wood beams

You Want Each Faux Wood Beam to Be Different

Custom beams from Volterra are hand-fabricated, meaning that each one is unique and made-to-order. This is opposed to ready-made beams, which are often mass-produced and lack character. If you want each beam in your home to have its own story and more authentically replicate real wood beams, then custom beams are the way to go.

custom faux wood beams

You Want the Ability to Choose Your Own Finish

One of the most difficult decisions with our custom wood beams is choosing the stain, only because there are so many to choose from! Most beams will have stain choices like dark walnut, oak, driftwood, mahogany, and more. You can even order them primed so that you can add a specific stain or finish yourself.

custom faux wood beams

You’re Okay With Longer Wait Times

Custom beams have a longer lead time than ready-made beams because each one is made-to-order. However, we think the wait is worth it when you end up with a one-of-a-kind product that is the perfect size and finish for your home.

So, there you have it! If any of these four things resonate with you, then custom faux wood beams from Volterra are definitely the right choice for you. Browse our collection today and get started on creating your dream space!

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Things to Know About Quick Ship Faux Wood Beams

Looking for a fast and easy way to add some rustic charm to your home decor? More and more homeowners and designers are using faux wood beams from Volterra Architectural Products to transform their interior spaces.

Volterra’s collection of Quick Ship faux ceiling beams is one of the most popular, as they benefit buyers in terms of cost, convenience, and ease of installation and maintenance. In this article, we’ll share some important things to know about our Quick Ship faux wood beams.

traditional style faux wood beams

Available in Traditional Wood Styles

Similar to the other collections of faux wood beams that Volterra offers, our Quick Ship beams are available in a variety of traditional wood styles, including Rustic, Rough Sawn, Doug Fir, and so much more. Additionally, each style of our Quick Ship beams can be further tailored to your space with different sizes and stains to choose from.

faux wood beam

Poured Monolithically

All of our Quick Ship beams are poured monolithically, which means that they’re created as a single piece. This offers a number of advantages in terms of stability and longevity, as there are no weak points or joints that can break down over time. One thing to keep in mind is, that since these faux wood beams are monolithically manufactured, each beam you order will be identical in appearance. If you want each beam to be different in appearance like natural wood beams, our custom faux wood beams would be a better choice, as each beam is hand-fabricated and unique in its own way. That said, once the quick ship faux wood beams are installed, it is difficult to tell whether each beam is different from the next.

faux wood beams

Shipping Time is 3-4 Weeks

Most faux wood beams tend to have a longer wait when it comes to shipping — quality faux ceiling beams with the ever-so-popular ”two-day shipping” simply don’t exist. Products like these tend to have longer shipping times for various reasons, but the manufacturing process and demand for the product are the most common. Our Quick Ship beams are here to combat the longer shipping times that are traditionally associated with real and faux wood beams. With any Volterra Quick Ship Beam, you can expect shipping time to be approximately three-to-four weeks. For reference, our custom faux wood beams typically have a seven-to-eight week shipping time. Therefore, Quick Ship faux wood beams are the best choice for those who want simple yet aesthetically-effective ceiling beams without the long wait.

faux wood beams

A Budget Friendly Option

While our Quick Ship beams are by no means the cheapest faux wood beams on the market, they are a budget-friendly option for those who want the Volterra quality without the premium price tag. Our Quick Ship beams start as low as $175 but increase in price when specific styles, increased styles, and stains are incorporated into the order. Regardless of which faux wood beam option you choose, all of our products are competitively priced and made of high-quality materials, so you can be confident that you’re receiving a great product no matter which route you go.

If you’re looking for an easy, convenient, and budget-friendly faux wood beam option, our Quick Ship beams are the perfect choice. With a variety of styles and stain options to choose from, you’re sure to find the right beam for your space. Shipping is fast and easy, so you can enjoy your new beams in no time. When your order arrives, be sure to check out our faux wood beam installation tips. For further questions regarding our faux wood beam products, contact Volterra Architectural Products today.

 

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Things You Should Know About Real Wood Ceiling Beams

The collection of faux wood beams at Volterra Architectural Products are a fantastic way to add some character to your home without breaking the bank. However, we understand that some people prefer the look and feel of real wood beams in their ceilings. That’s why we also offer real wood ceiling beams, too.

Our collection of natural wood beams are available in various sizes and styles to fit your project’s needs. However, before you purchase and install real wood beams in your home, there are a few things you should know.

They Are Not Solid

Although they are manufactured to look like a solid piece of wood, our real wood beams are actually hollow on the inside. This makes them much lighter than solid wood beams, which is an important consideration during the installation process.

They Are Not Load-Bearing

If you’re looking for beams to support the weight of your home, real wood beams are not the right choice. Because they are box-style and hollow on the inside, they are not structurally sound enough to support a home’s weight. These beams should be installed for decorative purposes only.

They Are Manufactured with Edge Grain Seams and Butt Joints

All of our real wood beams are made with edge-grain seams and butt joints. These types of joints are not as strong as mortise and tenon or dovetail joints, so the beams should be handled with care during installation.

Finishes and Sealers Are Available

To help protect your beams and keep them looking their best, we offer a variety of stylish finishes and sealers in three different levels of protection: 15 Sheen, 45 Sheen, and 90 Sheen. These additions will be an extra cost to your project, but they’re worth it to ensure your beams last for years to come.

If you’re considering adding real wood beams to your home, we hope this information has been helpful. Be sure to consult with a professional before installation to ensure the beams are installed properly and safely. Check out our selection of real wood beams today.

The Challenges of Bringing Steel Beams into Your Interior Design

Many homeowners desire the look of steel beams in their homes but don’t want to deal with the challenges that come along with them. Thankfully, it’s possible to get the best of both worlds with faux steel beams from Volterra Architectural Products.

Our faux steel beams are made of lightweight Poplar hardwood and are an easy way to add the modern industrial look of steel I beams without the hassle. Almost always, structural steel beams need to be incorporated in the original build and can’t be added later.  Here are some of the other challenges that come with real steel beams and how faux steel beams from Volterra are the perfect solution.

Weight

One of the challenges that come with steel beams is their weight. This can make installation difficult and time-consuming. A steel support beam can weigh anywhere from six to 100 pounds per linear foot, which means that a 12-foot beam can weigh up to 1200 pounds. This can be a problem for homeowners who don’t have the necessary equipment or experience to install them.

Support

Most residential spaces are not designed to support the weight of steel beams. This means that homeowners need to make structural changes, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Volterra faux steel beams are non-structural, meaning they can be installed without the need for expensive and time-consuming structural changes.

Cost

Another challenge that comes with steel beams is their cost. The price of steel has been on the rise in recent years, which means that steel beams have become more expensive. Plus, the cost of labor to install them and make any necessary structural changes can also be expensive. Because Volterra faux steel beams are made of lightweight Poplar hardwood, they are more affordable and easier to install.

Maintenance

Steel beams are also susceptible to rust and corrosion, which means they require regular maintenance. This can be a problem for homeowners who don’t want to deal with the hassle of maintaining their steel beams. Volterra faux steel beams are resistant to rust and corrosion, so you don’t have to worry about maintaining them.

Volterra faux steel beams are the perfect way to add the industrial look of steel beams to your home without the challenges that come with them. To learn more about our faux steel beam collection, visit our website or contact us today.

Faux Wood Beams Vs Real Wood Beams: Which is Best for You?

If you’re considering wood beams for your ceiling, you might be wondering whether to go with real wood or faux wood. Both have their own unique benefits that might make them the right choice for your home. In this blog post, we’ll be comparing real wood beams and faux wood beams, so you can decide which is the best option for you.

Price

When it comes to price, real wood beams are typically more expensive than faux wood beams. This is because real wood beams are made from actual lumber, which can be costly. On the other hand, faux wood beams are made from polyurethane, which is a much cheaper material. So if you’re on a budget, faux wood beams might be the better option for you, especially since it’s difficult to tell them apart from the real thing!

Installation

Of course, real wood beams are heavier than their faux counterparts that are made out of high-density foam. This means that real wood beams can be more difficult to install, and you might need the help of a professional. Keep in mind, though, that real wood beams from Volterra are box-style beams, which means they’re hollow on the inside and lighter compared to other real wood beams, making them easier to install.

Appearance

One of the best things about real wood beams is that they can be customized to your liking. You can choose to leave them unfinished for a more rustic look, or you can stain or paint them to match your home’s décor. Faux wood beams also come in a variety of colors and styles, so you’re sure to find something that fits your taste. And because they’re made from polyurethane, they’re much more durable than real wood beams and won’t warp or crack over time.

Maintenance

Real wood beams require more maintenance than faux wood beams. You’ll need to regularly dust and vacuum them, and if they’re unfinished, you’ll need to apply a new coat of stain or paint every few years. Faux wood beams are very low-maintenance since they’re made from polyurethane. All you need to do is dust them occasionally, and they’ll look like new for years to come.

So, which is the better option for you? It really depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, then faux wood beams are probably the way to go. But if you want beams that can be customized to your liking and don’t mind doing a bit of extra maintenance, real wood beams might be the better choice. Whichever you choose, Volterra has a great selection of both real wood beams and faux wood beams to choose from!

How to Make the Most of Your Samples

How to Make the Most of Your Samples

It’s no secret that faux wood beams from Volterra Architectural Products are some of the most realistic and beautiful on the market. No matter which style and finish you choose, our beams will add warmth, character, and an element of luxury to your home.

 

If you’re considering faux wood beams for your next project, we highly recommend ordering samples first. Seeing the product in person is the best way to get a feel for the quality and decide which option is right for you and your space. Below, we’ve compiled four tips to help you make the most of your samples and feel confident in your final decision.

Asses Your Style & Existing Decor

When browsing our beam samples, it’s important to consider your existing style and decor. Do you have a rustic farmhouse feel or more of a modern aesthetic? Are your ceilings high or low? Our beams come in a variety of styles, from a rougher-looking hand-hewn to a sleek and modern Douglas Fir. It’s important to find something that compliments your existing style and makes a statement in your space.

classy room
Dark faux wood beams installed in living area

Select Multiple Samples to Choose From

If you’re feeling undecided or simply can’t decide on the style or finish of your beams, we suggest ordering multiple samples. This way, you can see the beams in person and hold them up to your existing decor to get a better idea of how they’ll look. It’s much easier to make a decision when you can see the beams in your space and compare them side-by-side.

Look at the Beam Samples in Place

Once you’ve narrowed down your selection, it’s time to take a closer look at the samples. If possible, have someone help you by holding the beam samples up in the area they will likely be installed. This will give you a better idea of how they’ll look in your space and help you decide on the perfect style for your home.

Faux wood beams in a commercial space

Think About Lighting 

Finally, it’s important to think about lighting when selecting your beams. Different times of day and types of lighting can drastically change the look of a beam. We recommend taking samples home and holding them up in various light settings, both natural and artificial, to see how they look. This will help you decide if the beam is too light or dark for your space and make sure you’re happy with your final decision.

Once you have samples in hand, it’s much easier to make a decision on which faux wood beams are right for your home. At Volterra, we offer beam samples in our custom faux beams, quick ship beams, faux steel beams, and natural wood planks collections. We’re confident you’ll find the perfect option for your space. Browse our faux wood beam samples today.

What Are Wood Beams Used For?

What Are Wood Beams Used For?

Traditionally used for structural support, wood beams have become a beautiful architectural addition to homes all over the US. Natural wood beams can bring out the character of a home and improve the feel of kitchens, dining, rooms, living rooms, and any other space in your home. At Volterra, we create beautiful wood beams to add character to your home. Here are four architectural elements that natural wood beams can bring into your home. To see how wood beams can improve your home, check out our collections today!

Adding Age

For thousands of years, natural wood beams have been used to provide structural support for mess halls, pubs, castles, and homes among other things. Because of their rich history, wood beams bring a sense of age to any home they are integrated into. Whether natural wood beams spark images of Scottish castles, southern architecture, or a medieval pub, they will inspire thoughts of historical architecture that nothing else does.

They Add Detail

When vaulted or flat ceilings are plain, that space can feel empty and boring. This is the reason people hang things on the wall or install chandeliers. But, natural wood beams can add detail to a plain, boring ceiling that nothing else can. With several different wood options and finishes available, our wood beams will spice up any space that needs a touch of detail to pop. Check out our options today!

Create Distinction

Think about some of the favorite homes that you have visited in the past and the elements of that home that stood out to you. Odds are—if you’ve been to a home with wood beams—those wood beams on the ceiling stood out to you as something you would want to integrate into your own home. Natural wood beams create a distinction in any room they are integrated into and help your home to stand out among others.

Improve a Home’s Storyline

All of the improvements above can be integrated into one large topic—natural wood beams help your home to tell a story. A good story has the three things listed above. With age, detail, and distinction, natural wood beams convey something about you and your home that few architectural additives can. Whether they amplify beautiful countertops or make your cabinets pop, natural wood beams in your home help you space to tell a story and share memories—creating a space where meals are enjoyed, memories are made, and relationships are built. To see how natural wood beams can help your house feel more like a home, reach out to us today!

At Volterra, we help to create spaces that make for great memories, and natural wood beams add incredible detail and distinction to your home that nothing else can. From white oak to alder, we offer tons of incredible wood beam options to choose from. Check out our collection and order today!

Popular Wood Choices for Tongue and Groove Ceilings

Popular Wood Choices for Tongue and Groove Ceilings

Whether you’re looking to achieve a modern or rustic aesthetic in your interior design scheme, a tongue and groove (T&G) ceiling can help you bring your vision to life. At Volterra, we can assist with this process. Before you get started on your T&G ceiling, you need to choose what it will be made of. Here is a quick look at the different options you have:

Hemlock Natural Wood

If you’re looking for an economical T&G ceiling option, then hemlock is a good choice. This type of wood is lightweight and easy to work with, making it a popular choice among DIYers. Hemlock also takes paint and stain well, so you can customize the look of your T&G ceiling to match your décor.

white wood ceiling
ceiling beams living room

Fir Natural Wood

Fir is another fantastic tongue and groove ceiling option for those on a budget. It’s lightweight and easy to work with — perfect! You can also paint or stain it whatever color you want without worrying about the finish rubbing off after time has passed; this will give your room exactly what they were looking for in just one look!

White Oak Natural Wood

For a more durable T&G ceiling, white oak is a good choice. This hardwood is resistant to rot and insect damage, making it a good choice for areas where there is a higher risk of moisture or pests. White oak is also more difficult to work with than softer woods, so it’s best to leave the installation to professionals.

T&g ceiling
dark wood ceiling beams

Poplar Natural Wood

The beautiful grain of poplar wood makes it a popular choice for tongue and groove ceilings. It’s similar in durability to white oak, but easier on your tools because its colors don’t run when stained or painted too heavily — giving you total control over how much color will show through from start!

Alder Natural Wood

Alder is a softwood that is often used for T&G ceilings. At Volterra, we have two Alder variations to choose from: superior and knotty. The more knots an alder board has, the more rustic it is. Meanwhile, smoother surfaces can be found in superior alder boards where there are fewer wood fibers present on the surface. When choosing between the two, also consider paint or stain applications. With fewer wood fibers, superior boards don’t reflect as much light due to their lack of patterning.

classy room

No matter what type of wood you choose for your T&G ceiling, Volterra can help you materialize your dream. We have a wide variety of T&G ceiling options to choose from, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your home or business. Contact us today to learn more about our tongue and groove ceiling options or to place an order.

Best Ways to Elevate Your Home’s Style

If you are looking to elevate your home’s style and make it stand out from the crowd, there are a few options you should consider. From ceiling beams and custom shutters to corbels and faux wood mantels, you can easily turn your home into a work of art with just a few simple additions. Here is a look at the best ways to elevate your home’s style using these features, brought to you by Volterra.

Ceiling Beams

Ceiling beams are a popular design element that can add character and interest to any room. They can be used to create a rustic or traditional look, or to add an industrial touch to a modern space. Ceiling beams are often made from wood, but can also be made from other materials such as metal or faux wood.

In addition to adding visual appeal, ceiling beams can also serve a functional purpose. They can be used to cover up any imperfections in the ceiling, such as cracks or uneven surfaces. This can help to create a more cohesive and polished look in the room. Ceiling beams can also be used to add an extra layer of texture to a space, helping to create depth and interest.

Ceiling beams can be customized to fit a variety of design styles, making them a versatile and adaptable element in home design. They can be stained or painted to match the existing decor in the room, or left in their natural state to create a more rustic or industrial look. Ceiling beams can be used in a variety of settings, including homes, offices, and commercial spaces, making them a popular choice for interior designers and homeowners alike.

Custom Shutters

Custom shutters are a stylish and practical addition to any home. They can be used to add a touch of class and sophistication to the exterior of a home, while also providing a level of privacy. Custom shutters can be designed to match the existing design of a home, or to add a contrasting element for a more modern look.

Custom shutters can also serve a practical purpose. They can provide extra insulation for a home, helping to keep it cooler in the summer months and warmer in the winter. This can result in energy savings and a more comfortable living environment. Custom shutters can also protect a home from the elements, such as strong winds or heavy rain.

Custom shutters can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, vinyl, and composite materials. They can be painted or stained to match the existing color scheme of a home, or left in their natural state for a more rustic look. Custom shutters are a versatile and customizable option for homeowners looking to add some style and practicality to their homes.

Corbels

Corbels are decorative brackets that are often used to support a structure or to add some classy decoration to a space. They can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, stone, and metal, and are available in a range of styles to suit different design aesthetics. Traditional corbels are often ornately carved and used to add a sense of grandeur to a space, while more modern designs may be simpler in form and used to add a touch of minimalism.

Faux Wood Mantels

Faux wood mantels are a decorative element that can add warmth and sophistication to a room. These mantels are made to look like real wood, but are typically made from a lighter and more durable material, such as resin. They can be customized to fit a variety of design styles, from traditional to modern, and can be painted or stained to match the existing decor in the room. Faux wood mantels are a great way to add a touch of luxury to a space, while also providing a functional element for displaying decor or storing items.

By incorporating these features into a home, homeowners can add character and interest to a space, while also adding practical elements such as extra support or insulation. These features can be used individually or in combination to create a unique and cohesive design that reflects the personal style of the homeowner. If you’re looking for more ways to update your home, check out the products at Volterra today!

 

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Do Faux Wood Beams Add Value?

Do Faux Wood Beams Add Value?

In today’s competitive real estate market, homeowners are always looking to make updates and improvements to their space that they not only can enjoy themselves but also that will add value to their home. While there are many unique attributes that can boost your home’s value, exposed wood ceiling beams are a rare, highly sought-after feature that can really make a space stand out. However, real wood ceiling beams are not always an option, whether because of cost, weight, or installation difficulties. 

That’s where faux wood beams from Volterra Architectural Products come in! Our collection of faux wood beams is made from a highly durable polyurethane material that is much lighter than real wood yet still looks like the real thing. They have the same design impact as real wood beams without the hassle or expense, and best of all, they can increase the value of your home. Shop faux wood beams for ceilings now or continue reading to learn how they can add value to your home.

Helps the Kitchen Feel More Spacious

The kitchen is often the space that appeals most to potential homebuyers, so it’s important to make sure this space is as inviting and spacious as possible. Faux wood beams can help create the illusion of a larger kitchen by drawing the eye upward and making the ceilings appear taller. This is especially effective in smaller kitchens or homes with lower ceilings. Installing faux wood beams in a kitchen can transform the space and make it feel more open, bright, and welcoming.

sandblast faux wood beams

Creates a Cozy and Inviting Living Area

Another important selling point for potential homebuyers is the living area. This is where families and friends gather to relax, socialize, and spend time together, so it’s crucial that this space feels cozy and inviting. Faux wood beams can help create a warm and inviting living area by adding visual interest and a touch of luxury. The addition of faux wood beams can make a living area feel more like a luxurious retreat and less like a standard family room.

Completes the Master Bedroom

People dream of a master bedroom that feels like a personal oasis, where they can relax and escape the stresses of daily life. Faux wood beams can help turn this dream into a reality by adding a touch of luxury and elegance. The addition of faux wood ceiling beams can make the space feel more complete and inviting, providing potential homebuyers with everything they are looking for in a master bedroom.

doug fir ridge and rafter faux beams in a bedroom

Volterra faux wood beams are the perfect way to add value to your home without breaking the bank. Whether you add them to the kitchen, living area, master bedroom, or another room in your home, faux wood beams are sure to impress potential homebuyers and increase the value of your home. Browse our collection of faux wood beams today.