Author: Volterra

Where Do You Put Faux Beams?

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Where Do You Put Faux Beams?

Faux wood ceiling beams are a fantastic way to add the appearance of natural wood to your home, without the weight or cost of real wood ceiling beams. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your home’s design.

At Volterra Architectural Products, we offer a collection of some of the best faux wood ceiling beams on the market. Our beams are lightweight, easy to install, and come in a variety of wood species and stain options to meet any design needs. With the versatility of faux wood beams, the possibilities for where to install them are endless. Here are some of the most common areas faux wood ceiling beams are installed:

In Living Rooms & Family Rooms

Faux wood beams are a great way to add character and warmth to your living room or family room. They are especially well-suited for rooms with vaulted ceilings, as they can add depth to the space and make the room feel cozier. They can be installed along the entire length of the ceiling, or in select areas to create a more focal point.

Kitchens

Faux wood beams are also a popular choice for kitchens, especially above kitchen islands. They can help to define the space and make the island feel like its own distinct area. They can also be used to highlight other features in the kitchen, such as range hoods or chandeliers. Additionally, faux wood beams can be strategically placed to help to define the layout of a kitchen.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms are meant to be a comforting and relaxing space, and faux wood beams can help to create that atmosphere. They can be used to add warmth and character to the room or to highlight features such as a bed or another area. Faux wood beams can also be used to create a focal point in the room, such as above a fireplace or dresser.

 

Faux wood ceiling beams with faux beam straps

Finished Basements

Adding faux wood beams to a finished basement is a great way to make the space feel more like an extension of your home. They can be used to define different areas and features in the basement, such as a bar or entertainment area, or to create a more cohesive design. Once installed, you’ll quickly realize just how versatile faux wood beams can be!

Whether you’re looking to add character to your living room, kitchen, or another space in your home, faux wood beams are a great way to do it. At Volterra Architectural Products, we offer a wide selection of faux wood ceiling beams that are easy to install and come in a variety of wood species and stain options. Browse our collection and find the perfect beams for your home!

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Why Contractors Prefer Faux Beams

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Why Contractors Prefer Faux Beams

Have you always wanted to add shiplap to your home but didn’t know where to start? Shiplap can be used in a variety of ways to add character and charm to your space. Homeowners love shiplap because it’s a relatively simple way to make a big impact in your home. 

Volterra’s faux wood planks are an excellent alternative to real wood planks. They are made of polyurethane, which is a durable material that is easy to work with. Plus, they come in a variety of textures and finishes, so you can find the perfect look for your space. In this blog, we will share four creative ways to use shiplap in your home. 

Great for Residential & Commercial Construction

One of the reasons faux wood beams have become so popular is that they are great for both residential and commercial construction. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of applications. Contactors love faux wood beams because they can be used in a variety of ways to create unique looks for their projects, whether it’s a home or a commercial building.

Faux wood beams in a commercial space
Modern kitchen with faux wood ceiling beams

Lightweight & Easy to Install

Another reason contractors appreciate faux wood beams is that they are very lightweight and easy to install. Faux wood beams are made with a quality polyurethane material, which is lightweight. This makes faux wood beams easy to transport and install. Best of all, using faux wood beams can help contractors save time and money on their projects.

Available in Different Wood Species

Another reason contractors love faux wood beams is that they are available in different wood species. This allows for a greater degree of design flexibility when it comes to creating unique looks for your project. Contractors can choose from a variety of faux wood beam styles and colors to match the look they are trying to achieve.

Small kitchen space with faux wood beams
Dark faux wood ceiling beams in a bedroom

Affordable 

Finally, faux wood beams are a more affordable option, especially when compared to real wood ceiling beams, which not only can be more expensive in today’s market but can also be difficult to install. This makes them a great choice for contractors who are working on a tight budget. In addition to being more affordable, faux wood beams are also a more sustainable option. They are made with high-quality, durable materials that will last for years.

As you can see, there are a number of reasons why contractors prefer faux wood beams. They are versatile, easy to install, and affordable. In addition, they are available in different wood species so that you can achieve the perfect look for your project.

Volterra’s faux wood beams are the perfect choice for any contractor who wants to add character and charm to their project. Our faux wood beams are available in Doug Fir, Hand Hewn, Rough Sawn, Majestic, and Rustic styles. Visit our website to learn more about our faux wood beams and other polyurethane architectural details.

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5 Creative Ways to Decorate With Shiplap

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5 Creative Ways to Decorate With Shiplap

Have you always wanted to add shiplap to your home but didn’t know where to start? Shiplap can be used in a variety of ways to add character and charm to your space. Homeowners love shiplap because it’s a relatively simple way to make a big impact in your home. 

At Volterra Architectural Products, our real wood tongue and groove product is great for use on walls and makes it easy to achieve the modern shiplap look. Plus, they come in a variety of textures and finishes, so you can find the perfect look for your space. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to use shiplap in your home, check out these four creative ways to decorate with shiplap.

Create A Modern Shiplap Accent Wall

One of the most popular ways to use shiplap is to create an accent wall. Accent walls are a great way to add visual interest to a room without overwhelming it. You can use shiplap to create an accent wall in any room of your home, including the living room, bedroom, or dining room. You can paint your shiplap accent wall any color you want, or keep it natural for a more rustic look. Either way, a shiplap-style accent wall is a great way to make a statement in your home.

Tongue and groove real wood wall
Beautiful room with a faux wood plank ceiling

Update Your Fireplace 

If you have a fireplace, shiplap is the perfect way to update it. This is a great way to add a touch of elegance to your space without having to do a complete renovation. Simply add it to the surrounding area of your fireplace for a quick and easy update. You can either install it horizontally or vertically, depending on your preference. If you have a modern fireplace, we recommend installing the product in a vertical orientation  to create a sleek and stylish look.

Create a Headboard

A headboard can serve as a focal point in your bedroom and adding shiplap can give it a modern and unique look.  Be sure to measure your bed before you start so that your headboard is the right size. Depending on your preference and aesthetic of the room the headboard will be added to, you can finish the wood with a stain, paint or sealant. You could also add decorative details such as sconces, and fabric or even use different types of wood to create a pattern. 


Wood plank headboard in a master bedroom

Use It In the Kitchen

Shiplap in the kitchen is a common trend that is here to stay. This is a great way to add character and charm to your kitchen without breaking the bank. Product can be used on the backsplash, on the island, or even on the walls. Be sure to choose a finish that goes with your existing kitchen décor. For a modern look, try using a lighter-colored option. If you’re looking for something more rustic, go for a darker finish.

 

Add to Ceiling

One of the most popular ways to use shiplap is on the ceiling. This is a great way to add architectural interest to your space. While Volterra’s tongue and groove product is ideal for wall installation, our faux wood planks are designed for ceilings and replicate the look of shiplap. If you have exposed faux wood beams in your home, you can also use faux wood planks to accentuate them and create the beloved shiplap look.

We hope you found these four creative ways to use shiplap helpful. If you want to add the look of shiplap to your home in an easy and cost-effective way, Volterra’s faux wood planks are the perfect solution. Browse faux wood planks today.

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Reasons Why Faux Wood Beams Are Environmentally Friendly

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Reasons Why Faux Wood Beams Environmentally Friendly

Having wood ceiling beams is a dream for many homeowners. Not only do they add character and charm to a space, but they also increase the value of your home. However, real wood beams can be expensive and difficult to install. Faux wood beams are a great alternative that offer all the benefits of real wood beams without the cost or hassle.

Volterra Architectural Products is North America’s largest manufacturer of faux wood beams and polyurethane architectural details. Our collection of faux wood beams can transform any space. Not only are they lightweight and easier to install than real wood ceiling beams, but our faux wood beams are also environmentally friendly. In this blog, we share four reasons why our wood beams are environmentally friendly.

Made With High-Density Polyurethane Foam

Our faux wood beams are made with high-density polyurethane foam. This type of material is not only environmentally friendly, but it’s also incredibly durable. Polyurethane foam is resistant to insects, mold, and mildew. It’s also moisture-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about your faux wood beams warping or cracking over time. By investing in faux wood ceiling beams crafted from high-quality polyurethane foam material, you can be confident that you’re putting your money towards a product that is environmentally friendly.

Dark faux wood beams installed in living area

Lasts a Long Time

The material that is used to construct our  faux wood beams is incredibly long-lasting. In fact, our polyurethane beams can last upwards of 25 years. This is significantly longer than the lifespan of real wood beams, which typically only last around 10 years. Not only does this mean that you won’t have to replace your faux wood beams as often, but it also means that there will be less waste generated over time. 

Doesn’t Impact Natural Resources

Another reason why our faux wood beams are environmentally friendly is that they don’t impact natural resources. Real wood beams are often sourced from old-growth forests. These forests take centuries to grow, and their destruction can have a devastating impact on the environment. Keeping old-growth forests intact is crucial for the health of our planet. Faux wood beams provide all the beauty of real wood without the negative environmental impact.

Dense forest with tall green pine trees

Polyurethane is a Recyclable Material

When it’s time to replace your faux wood beams, you can rest assured knowing that the material is recyclable. Polyurethane is a thermoplastic, meaning that it can be melted down and reformed into another product. This makes it easy to recycle your faux wood beams without harming the environment.

As you can see, there are many reasons why Volterra faux wood ceiling beams are environmentally friendly. If you’re considering adding wood beams to your home, we hope you’ll consider our faux wood beams as a more sustainable option. Shop our selection of faux wood beams today.

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What is a Faux Steel Beam Made Of?

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What is a Faux Steel Beam Made Of?

A great option for your trusses, rafters and other construction features around your home are faux steel beams. Faux steel beams can add a brilliant look to your property while supporting the weight on your roof. But what are faux steel beams made of? In today’s blog from Volterra Architectural Products in Phoenix, we’ll take a look at some materials used for faux steel beams and how they can impact the look of your home. Keep reading to learn more and contact us with any questions you may have!

Hardwood Designs

The faux steel beams in your home are made of a number of different materials. Probably the most common faux steel beam material is some type of hardwood. Whether it be oak, maple, or another wood species entirely, faux metal beams constructed from hardwoods can look truly amazing on many homes. The main downside to using these types of faux steel beams is that they can be a bit more expensive than other faux steel beams made from different materials.

I beam images in an industrial beach house

Urethane

If you’re looking for faux steel beams that are a bit less expensive, faux urethane faux steel beams may be the best option. Many people don’t realize it but there are actually many types of urethanes available on the market today. Polyurethane can vary from material to material and faux metal beams made from polyurethane can vary from faux steel beams made of hardwood.

Acrylic

Acrylic faux steel beams are also an option for faux metal beams in many homes. Acrylic faux beam materials have a nice solid feel to them and they hold up well over time, which is why most people choose these types of faux steel beams for their construction needs. They are a bit less expensive than faux steel beams made from hardwood but they can be more costly when compared to faux urethane faux metal beams.

faux steel i beam

What is the Best Material For Faux Steel Beams? 

That really depends on your budget and what you’re looking for in terms of end results. Each type of faux metal beam has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, which is why faux metal beams are so versatile. Whether you want faux steel beams made of hardwood, faux urethane, or acrylic to use on your home it’s important to remember they can all add a unique look and feel.

Faux steel beams are ideal for your construction plans. Whether you want to prepare a truss or rafters, you can use faux beams to add a distinct touch. Our experts at Volterra Architectural Products will be there to help you with whatever work plans you want to manage for your home.

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What Types of Wood Trusses Can You Use in Your Home?

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What Types of Wood Trusses Can You Use in Your Home?

The structural wood trusses in your home will support your roof’s frame. Your trusses are essential in shaping your roof while distributing its weight onto the exterior walls. It is easier to get trusses ready than if you used rafters, plus they cost less than rafters. But you might be curious if you can get the look of structural wood trusses with a decorative, non-functional option. Our experts at Volterra Architectural Products can help you explore some of the different faux wood truss styles that fit in with your home or corporate design style. Keep reading to learn more, and visit us online or in-store today!

King Post

The king post truss design is one of the oldest types still in use today. The king post features a single vertical post at its center, with rafters on either side to support your roof. They are commonly used for smaller structures like gazebos and porches, but you can also find them incorporated into larger homes or commercial buildings. Volterra’s king truss perfectly replicates this type of structural wood truss.

Queen Post

The queen post truss features two vertical posts on either side of the center. While they are typically used to support smaller structures like gazebos, porches, and arbors, you can also find them in larger homes or commercial buildings.

Clerestory

This type of truss is used to create a window or skylight in homes. The clerestory features rafters that span across the width of your roof, with support beams coming down from those rafters on both sides. These are commonly found along exterior walls and can be made taller for more headroom underneath them. Volterra’s Sawtooth truss resembles some clerestory trusses.

If you’re looking for a specific type of wood truss, visit our website to see 12 different truss options to choose from.  Our technical team at Volterra Architectural Products is also available to discuss custom trusses of most any style. We are here to answer any questions you may have about our products or services and how they can meet your needs. Call or stop by our Phoenix location today!

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Why Choose Faux Wood Beams For Your Home?

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Why Choose Faux Wood Beams For Your Home?

The challenge of finding quality materials for your architectural needs can be frustrating. But it doesn’t have to be when you look at how well fake beams can work. Faux beams look like wood, but they are made with alternate materials. They often feature various textures  that look great on most surfaces. Our experts at Volterra Architectural Products in Phoenix can show you how these beams can be incorporated into your space. Keep reading to learn more, and shop our faux wood beams online or in-store today!

Easy to Customize

One great thing about faux beams is their ability to be customized. There are many different colors and styles of faux wood, so you should have no problems finding something that will fit into your space. The faux wood panels offered at Volterra come in various sizes as well, allowing for more flexibility when creating the right design scheme for your home.

I beam images in an industrial beach house

Less Risk of Damage

When faux beams are installed, there is a low chance of damage. For example, faux beams can be placed over an existing beam that has been damaged or weakened by water and other elements. The faux wood products will not rot or warp like real wood does in the same conditions because they are made of high-density polyurethane foam to ensure their durability, even after several decades.

Handles Moisture Well

Faux beams are able to  handle moisture well. Moisture is a common issue when it comes to wood in the home or outside because water vapor can seep  into this material and causes damage over time. With faux beams, on the other hand, you won’t have any issues with warping or cracking due to exposure to humidity or extreme conditions. It’s easy to clean faux beams, too.

faux steel i beam

Consistent Color

When faux beams are installed, you can enjoy the original stained color throughout the life of the beam. Some faux woods have various colors and textures that give each beam its own unique look, but you will never see any discoloration of fading from direct sunlight exposure because faux wood is treated to prevent this. This faux wood is also resistant to pests that might damage your beams over time.

Faux beams are an excellent choice for any home. They provide the look of wood, but they’re easier to install and are more resistant to harsh conditions. You’ll love faux beams, and Volterra Architectural Products in Phoenix has them for you at affordable prices. Shop faux wood beams online or in-store today!

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Why Use Wood Beams On Your Ceiling?

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Why Use Wood Beams on Your Ceiling?

Wood beams are helpful when looking for a top-rate decorative feature for any room in your home. But you might wonder why adding wood beams to a ceiling is a great idea. Whether you’re looking for wood trusses or faux wood beams for a kitchen or bathroom, Volterra Architectural Products in Phoenix can help you create a space that you love. Keep reading to learn more about how wood beams can transform your home, and contact us to get started today!

A Warm Look

Wood beams are a great way to add warmth to any room. Wood can take on many different colors, from bright white or light beige tones to dark brown hues that resemble coffee with cream.  If you pair your wood beams with other natural materials like stone or brick, they can create an earthy feel that will make any room more inviting.

Creating a Shape For a Room

Wood beams can help you shape a room to your liking. Whether it’s an arched wood beam or one with tapering, they can create  a strong visual impact. If you want to create a room that has more of an organic feel, use wood beams in your design.

Separate the Lights

One of the most popular uses for wood beams is to separate lights. Adding spaces between your light fixtures can make a room feel more ample and open, while giving you an opportunity to showcase your wooden trusses or faux wood beams.

Add an Artistic Flourish

Wood beams can also add an artistic touch to your home. Their rustic appearance allows you to incorporate them into any color scheme or design idea, while adding a unique sense of character and charm to the room they are in.

If you’re thinking about incorporating wood beams on your ceiling, contact us today at  Volterra Architectural Products in Phoenix. We have a variety of wood trusses and faux beams to choose from, including patterned beams that add even more character to your space!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Faux Steel I Beams

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Frequently Asked Questions About Faux Steel I Beams

Many interior design trends come and go, but some show no signs of ending anytime soon. Of the trends that are here to stay, it seems that homeowners are continuing to gravitate towards minimalist, industrial, or modular design. We’re seeing more steel and metals being incorporated into interior design to make a statement in both form and function. 

 

Steel ceiling beams are a staple in modern industrial design, but not every home requires this type of structural support. That’s where Faux Steel I Beams from Volterra Architectural Products come in. With 

these decorative ceiling beams, homeowners can incorporate industrial appeal to their space. To learn more about Volterra’s faux steel ceiling beams, continue reading as we answer some frequently asked questions.

What Are Faux Steel Beams Made Of?

Each decorative steel beam is constructed of real Poplar hardwood. The planks are painted to replicate the appearance of real steel. This wood is not only light and long-lasting, but it’s also rust-free and susceptible to corrosion like real steel beams. Once they are installed, it will be very difficult to tell that they are wood and not steel!

I beam images in an industrial beach house

How Much Do Steel Beams Cost?

The most popular sizes of Volterra decorative steel beams are 6×6 and 8×8, with the starting cost for 48” beams ranging from $225 to $290 per beam. The cost of each beam is decided by the measurements and extras chosen, as well as delivery. Choosing these easy-to-install faux steel beams can help you save a lot of money, considering what it would cost to install real steel ceiling beams with a lot of the expense coming from labor.

What Sizes Can Faux Steel Beams Be Ordered In?

Volterra manufactures faux steel beams in nine different sizes and 20 different lengths ranging from 48” to 288”. This makes ordering faux steel beams for the space you want to install them in very easy. Simple measure the space beforehand and you should have a good idea of which sizes you’ll need. If you want assistance choosing the right beam dimensions for your project, contact a Volterra customer care representative.

faux steel i beam

Can These Be Used In Place of Structural Steel Beams?

Volterra’s faux steel beams, and other architectural details, are not designed to be used for structural purposes. These decorative steel beams are perfect for individuals who want to replicate the look of real steel ceiling beams without having to deal with the expense or difficulty of installation.

Faux Steel I Beams from Volterra are a great way to add new life and modern, minimalistic, and industrial style to any home or building without spending thousands on renovations. To learn more about these faux steel beams and other products manufactured by Volterra Architectural Products, check out our Frequently Asked Questions page.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Faux Wood Vigas

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Frequently Asked Questions About Faux Wood Vigas

Vigas have become a popular exterior architectural detail, especially in adobe and Southwestern-style buildings. While vigas intended for structural support are constructed from real wood, homeowners can create the illusion of real wood vigas with unique products that are purely decorative — faux wood vigas from Volterra Architectural Products. 

 

Volterra’s selection of decorative vigas are manufactured to replicate the beautiful characteristics of real wood logs, but do not require maintenance and don’t decay, split, rot, or deteriorate. If you’d like to learn more about our faux wood vigas, continue reading as we answer some frequently asked questions.

What Are Faux Vigas Made Of?

The faux vigas we provide at Volterra Architectural Products are manufactured with high-quality urethane foam. Each decorative viga is created from a mold of a real wood viga to ensure the wood texture and grain are reproduced accurately. You’ll be forgiven if you can’t tell them apart from genuine wood, as they appear to be the real thing!

doug fir ridge and rafter faux beams in dining room

Can Faux Vigas Be Used Outside?

Although Volterra faux wood vigas are manufactured with urethane foam and are lightweight, they are incredibly durable and are designed for exterior use. They can withstand the elements and aren’t susceptible to splitting, rotting, or deterioration after a few years like real wood. What’s more, faux wood vigas are also resistant to termites and other insects, moisture, and ultraviolet rays.

How Much Do Vigas Cost?

The cost of Volterra vigas is determined by a variety of factors, including the type, size, finish, and whether they are solid or hollow. The cost of each viga is determined by your specific demands and installation criteria. An 8″ x 12″ hollow Flat End Viga without a flange and unpainted finish costs around $40 per viga. A 12” x 24” solid Tapered End Viga with a back plate and a dark walnut finish will cost just under $140.

How Do You Install Faux Vigas?

Volterra faux wood vigas are lightweight and easy to install for DIY homeowners who want to add the appearance of wood vigas without all the hassle. Our decorative vigas can fit onto existing rods or be installed with Volterra’s Viga Mounting Plate. Whichever option you choose, you’ll need to drill a hole in the center of each viga so that it will fit on the rod properly. It is recommended that adhesive is used to ensure a secure fit.

Volterra wood vigas are a great way to add new life and Southwestern-style to any home or building without spending thousands on expensive renovations. To learn more about faux wood vigas and other polyurethane architectural details manufactured by Volterra Architectural Products, check out our Frequently Asked Questions page.

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