Architectural Product Blog - Design Tips, Inspiration, Industry Trends

From Residential to Commercial: The Many Uses of Volterra’s Architectural Products

Posted on July 9, 2024July 9, 2024 by Shelly Moore

At Volterra Architectural Products, we specialize in creating innovative and versatile solutions for both residential and commercial spaces. Our foam faux beams, fake wooden beams, and foam beams are designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of any environment. Whether you’re renovating a cozy home or outfitting a grand commercial space, our products offer the perfect blend of beauty and practicality. Here’s a closer look at how our architectural products can be utilized in various settings.

Adding Rustic Charm to Homes

For homeowners looking to infuse their interiors with a touch of rustic charm, our Rustic faux wood beams are an ideal choice. Made from high-density polyurethane foam, these beams are lightweight, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance. Available in a realistic weathered texture and finishes such as pecan stain or primed, they bring the beauty of old-world style to any room without the high cost and upkeep of real wood.

Enhancing Commercial Spaces

Commercial spaces, from restaurants to retail stores, benefit greatly from the aesthetic enhancements provided by our foam beams. These beams can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that appeals to customers and clients. Their lightweight nature means they can be installed quickly, minimizing downtime and disruption. Additionally, their durability ensures they maintain their appearance even in high-traffic areas.

Transforming Office Environments

Incorporating architectural elements like fake wooden beams into office spaces can significantly improve the working environment. These beams can be used to delineate different areas, add visual interest, and create a more inviting and comfortable atmosphere for employees. The versatility of Volterra’s products allows for customization to match the office’s overall design theme.

Outdoor Applications

Our architectural products are not limited to indoor use. The durability and weather resistance of our foam faux beams makes them suitable for outdoor applications as well. They can be used to enhance patios, pergolas, and other outdoor structures, adding a touch of sophistication and style that withstands the elements.

Cost-Effective Renovations

One of the standout benefits of using Volterra’s foam beams is their cost-effectiveness. Real wood beams can be expensive and labor-intensive to install and maintain. In contrast, our high-density polyurethane beams offer a more affordable solution without compromising on appearance or quality. This makes them an excellent choice for both large-scale commercial projects and smaller residential renovations.

Versatility and Beauty with Volterra’s Architectural Products

From residential homes to commercial buildings, Volterra Architectural Products provides versatile and beautiful solutions that enhance any space. Our foam faux beams, fake wooden beams, and foam beams offer the perfect combination of style, durability, and affordability. Whether you’re looking to add rustic charm to your home, create an inviting commercial space, or undertake a cost-effective renovation, our products are designed to meet your needs. Explore our range of architectural products and discover how Volterra can transform your spaces. Contact us today to learn more or to place an order.

How to Maintain and Care for Your Faux Wood Beams to Keep Them Looking Like New

Posted on July 9, 2024July 9, 2024 by Shelly Moore

Faux wood beams are a fantastic way to add charm and character to your home. They offer the aesthetic appeal of real wood beams without the maintenance challenges. At Volterra Architectural Products, we understand the importance of keeping your faux ceiling beams looking pristine. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to maintain and care for your faux wood beams to ensure they stay beautiful for years to come.

Regular Dusting

One of the simplest ways to maintain your faux wood beams is through regular dusting. Dust can accumulate on the surface over time, dulling their appearance. Use a soft cloth or a feather duster to gently remove dust from the beams. For hard-to-reach areas, a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment can be very effective. Dusting should be done at least once a month to keep your beams looking fresh.

Gentle Cleaning

For a deeper clean, use a mild soap solution. Mix a few drops of gentle dish soap with warm water. Dampen a soft cloth in the solution and wipe down the beams. Avoid using excessive water, as too much moisture can affect the finish. After cleaning, dry the beams with a clean, dry cloth to prevent any water spots or streaks.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

While it might be tempting to use strong cleaners for a quick fix, harsh chemicals can damage the finish of your faux wood beams. Stick to mild, non-abrasive cleaners that are safe for synthetic materials. If you’re unsure about a product, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.

Inspect for Damage

Regular inspections can help you catch any potential issues early. Look for signs of wear, such as scratches, chips, or cracks. If you find any minor damage, it can often be repaired with a touch-up paint that matches the color of your beams. For more significant damage, consult with Volterra Architectural Products for advice on the best course of action.

Protect from Excessive Moisture and Heat

Although faux wood beams are more resistant to moisture and temperature changes than real wood, it’s still important to protect them from excessive exposure. In areas with high humidity, consider using a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels in check. Similarly, avoid placing beams near heat sources like fireplaces or heating vents, as prolonged exposure to high temperatures can affect their integrity.

Keep Your Faux Wood Beams Looking New

Maintaining your faux wood beams doesn’t require much effort, but a little care goes a long way in preserving their beauty. Regular dusting, gentle cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals, inspecting for damage, and protecting from extreme conditions will keep your faux ceiling beams looking like new. At Volterra Architectural Products, we’re here to help you keep your home looking its best. For more tips or to explore our range of faux wood beams, contact us today!

From Industrial to Chic: How Faux Steel Beams Can Elevate Your Interior Design

Posted on June 6, 2024June 6, 2024 by Shelly Moore

In the ever-evolving world of interior design, blending industrial elements with chic aesthetics has become a popular trend. At Volterra Architectural Products, we understand the transformative power of architectural beams, particularly faux steel beams, in achieving this balance. Our polyurethane faux beams offer a unique combination of industrial strength and elegant design, making them an ideal choice for modern interiors. Here’s how these versatile beams can elevate your home’s design.

Enhancing Structural Appeal with Architectural Beams

Architectural beams are more than support structures — they are design elements that can dramatically alter the look and feel of a room. Faux steel beams, crafted from high-quality polyurethane, provide the robust appearance of steel without the weight and installation challenges. These beams can be used to create stunning focal points in living rooms, kitchens, or even bedrooms, adding depth and character to any space.

Versatility of Polyurethane Faux Beams

One of the significant advantages of polyurethane beams is their versatility. These beams can mimic the appearance of various materials, including steel, wood, and more, allowing for endless design possibilities. Whether you aim for a sleek, modern look or a rustic, industrial vibe, polyurethane faux beams can be customized to suit your specific aesthetic needs.

Easy Installation and Maintenance

Real steel beams are heavy, expensive, and require professional installation. In contrast, polyurethane beams are lightweight and easy to install, making them a practical choice for DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors alike. They do not require additional structural support and can be installed quickly, reducing labor costs and time. Additionally, these beams are low maintenance, retaining their appearance without the need for regular upkeep.

Durability and Longevity

Despite being lightweight, polyurethane faux beams are incredibly durable. They are resistant to moisture, pests, and temperature changes, ensuring they remain in excellent condition for years. This durability makes them suitable for both interior and exterior applications, providing a long-lasting solution for your design needs.

Creating a Chic Industrial Aesthetic

The blend of industrial and chic elements can create a sophisticated yet edgy aesthetic in your home. Faux steel beams add an industrial touch that contrasts beautifully with softer, more elegant furnishings and decor. Whether you use them to frame a ceiling, highlight architectural features, or create a unique focal point, these beams can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your space.

Transform Your Home with Volterra’s Faux Steel Beams

Incorporating faux steel beams into your interior design is an excellent way to achieve a modern, industrial-chic look. At Volterra Architectural Products, our polyurethane faux beams combine aesthetic appeal with practical benefits, offering a versatile, durable, and cost-effective solution for your design projects. Explore our range of architectural beams and discover how they can transform your home. Contact us today to learn more or to place an order.

The Durability and Longevity of Volterra Architectural Polyurethane Faux Beams

Posted on June 6, 2024June 6, 2024 by Shelly Moore

At Volterra Architectural Products, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality architectural beams that blend aesthetics with durability. Our polyurethane faux beams are designed to withstand the test of time, making them an excellent choice for both residential and commercial applications. Here’s why our polyurethane beams are a durable and long-lasting solution for your design needs.

Resistance to Moisture and Pests

Polyurethane faux beams are inherently resistant to moisture and pests. Unlike real wood, which can warp, rot, or become infested with insects, our polyurethane beams maintain their integrity in various environmental conditions. This makes them ideal for use in areas with high humidity or temperature fluctuations.

Sustainable and Cost-Effective

Choosing polyurethane beams over natural wood or steel is not only a sustainable choice but also a cost-effective one. The longevity and minimal maintenance requirements of these beams reduce the need for replacements, contributing to long-term savings. Additionally, their production process is more environmentally friendly, making them a smart choice for eco-conscious builders and homeowners.

Low Maintenance

Maintenance is a critical factor in the longevity of any building material. Polyurethane beams require minimal upkeep compared to their natural counterparts. They do not need regular treatments or repairs, saving you time and money in the long run. A simple occasional cleaning is all that’s needed to keep them looking pristine.

UV and Weather Resistance

Our polyurethane beams are designed to resist UV damage and weathering. This ensures that they retain their appearance and structural integrity even when exposed to harsh sunlight or extreme weather conditions. Their durability makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, providing versatility in design.

Volterra Architectural Products’ polyurethane faux beams offer unparalleled durability and longevity, making them a superior choice for enhancing your spaces. Resistant to moisture, pests, UV, and weather, these beams provide long-lasting beauty and functionality with minimal maintenance. Explore our range of architectural beams and transform your home with the reliable quality of Volterra. Contact us today to learn more or place an order.

Are Faux Wood Beams Cheaper Than Real Wood Beams?

Posted on May 7, 2024May 7, 2024 by Shelly Moore

When considering the enhancement of your home’s aesthetic with ceiling beams, one of the fundamental questions that arises is the cost difference between faux wood beams and real wood beams. At Volterra Architectural Products, we understand that both options have their merits, but today we’re focusing on the cost-effectiveness and benefits of faux wood beams, particularly our white oak faux wood beams, in comparison to their real wood counterparts.

Initial Purchase Price

Faux wood beams generally offer a more cost-effective solution up front compared to real wood beams. Manufactured from high-density polyurethane, faux beams are less expensive to produce and purchase. This makes them an attractive option for larger projects or for homeowners seeking the rustic or sophisticated charm of beams without the hefty price tag of real wood.

Installation Costs

The installation process for faux wood beams is significantly less labor-intensive than that for real wood beams. Real wood beams, especially those made from hardwood like white oak, are heavy and often require additional support structures and professional installation, which can add to the overall costs. Faux wood beams are lightweight, easy to handle, and can often be installed by the homeowners themselves, leading to savings on labor costs.

Maintenance and Longevity

Over time, real wood beams can be subject to environmental factors such as moisture and insects, which may require treatments and regular maintenance. This ongoing care adds additional costs to the lifetime investment in real wood. In contrast, faux wood beams are designed to be low maintenance. They do not warp, rot, or succumb to insect damage, ensuring that they remain a cost-effective and hassle-free addition over their lifespan.

Aesthetic and Customization Costs

Faux wood beams offer a wide range of customization options at a lower cost. They can be manufactured to mimic virtually any type of wood, including Rift White Oak, and can be tailored in terms of size, shape, and finish to meet specific design needs without the price scaling significantly. This is in contrast to real wood beams, where custom cuts and finishes can become prohibitively expensive.

Choosing between faux and real wood beams often comes down to budget, aesthetics, and practical considerations. If cost, ease of installation, and minimal maintenance are your priorities, then faux wood beams, such as our white oak faux wood beams, present a compelling choice. They provide the decorative appeal of wood beams with added benefits that real wood cannot match. Explore Volterra’s extensive range of faux wood beams to find the perfect match for your home and enjoy the beauty of wood beams without the high costs. Contact us today to learn more or to start your project with the finest faux beams available.

Interior & Exterior Design Ideas for T&G Wood

Posted on April 8, 2024April 8, 2024 by Shelly Moore

Tongue and groove (T&G) wood panels are a versatile and elegant choice for both interior and exterior design projects. At Volterra Architectural Products, we offer exquisite White Oak and Rift White Oak Natural Wood T&G options that promise durability and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re updating a cozy living room or enhancing your home’s facade, T&G wood can elevate your space with its seamless look and timeless charm.

Indoor Elegance With Tongue and Groove Wood

Creating Warm and Inviting Living Spaces

Incorporate T&G wood panels into your living areas for a touch of warmth and sophistication. The interlocking design of tongue and groove provides a smooth, continuous appearance, making it perfect for creating accent walls or cozy reading nooks that invite relaxation and conversation.

Enhancing Kitchens and Bathrooms

T&G wood isn’t just for living rooms; it’s also ideal for adding character to kitchens and bathrooms. The durability and moisture resistance of our White Oak T&G makes it suitable for backsplashes, kitchen islands, or bathroom ceilings, combining functionality with rustic elegance.

Outdoor Beauty With Tongue and Groove Wood

Transforming Exterior Facades

Exterior T&G wood panels can dramatically change the curb appeal of your home. Use them to create striking facades, porch ceilings, or siding for a cohesive and natural look that stands the test of time.

Creating Seamless Outdoor Living Spaces

Extend the beauty of T&G wood to your outdoor living areas. Decks, patios, and pergolas adorned with T&G can create a seamless transition from indoors to out, ensuring your outdoor spaces are just as inviting as your interior ones.

Versatility in Design

One of the greatest advantages of T&G wood is its versatility. Mix and match our White Oak and Rift White Oak options for a custom look that complements your home’s architectural style and your personal aesthetic. Whether you’re aiming for a modern minimalist vibe or a more traditional, rustic feel, T&G wood offers endless possibilities.

Elevate Your Design With Volterra’s Tongue and Groove Wood

Embrace the beauty and versatility of tongue and groove wood in your next design project. With Volterra’s premium selection of White Oak and Rift White Oak T&G, transforming your indoor and outdoor spaces has never been easier. Explore our offerings and discover how T&G wood can add depth, warmth, and timeless elegance to your home. Contact us today to start your journey to a more beautiful living space.

Your Guide to Choosing Between Faux Beams and Natural Wood Beams

Posted on February 27, 2024March 4, 2024 by Volterra

When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic of your home with beams, the choice between faux wood beams and natural wood beams is pivotal. Both options offer distinct advantages and cater to different preferences, needs, and architectural styles. Understanding the nuances of each can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your design vision and practical requirements.

The Case for Faux Wood Beams

Faux wood beams have surged in popularity due to their versatility and practical benefits. Made from high-density polyurethane, faux beams mimic the texture and appearance of real wood without the inherent drawbacks of natural timber. One of the primary advantages is their lightweight nature, which simplifies installation and reduces the structural load on your home. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in renovations or installations where the existing structure cannot support the weight of real wood beams.

Additionally, faux wood beams are impervious to pests and decay, ensuring longevity and durability without the need for regular maintenance. Their resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations makes them ideal for use in any climate. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of faux beams can be a decisive factor for many homeowners. Offering the luxurious look of wood at a fraction of the price, they allow for expansive decorative applications without breaking the bank.

The Appeal of Natural Wood Beams

Natural wood beams bring irreplaceable authenticity and warmth to interiors, celebrated for their unique textures, grains, and the nuanced tones of real timber. Each beam tells a story, with its imperfections and character marks adding to the overall charm and ambiance of a space. For those seeking an organic connection to nature and a timeless aesthetic, natural wood beams are unrivaled.

The strength and durability of solid wood beams also contribute to their appeal. Capable of supporting substantial loads, they are often used in structural applications where their robustness can be showcased. Additionally, natural wood beams can be a sustainable choice, especially when sourced from responsibly managed forests or reclaimed from old buildings, further enhancing their allure for eco-conscious homeowners.

Installation Considerations

The installation process for natural wood beams requires more preparation and labor compared to faux beams. The weight of natural wood necessitates proper support structures and, often, professional installation. In contrast, the lightweight nature of faux wood beams allows for easier and quicker DIY installations, making them a practical choice for weekend projects.

Maintenance and Longevity

Natural wood beams require periodic maintenance to preserve their beauty and structural integrity. Treatments to protect against pests, moisture, and UV damage are essential for extending their lifespan. Faux beams, on the other hand, offer a maintenance-free solution, retaining their appearance over time without the need for ongoing care.

Whether you lean towards the authentic charm of natural wood beams or the practical benefits and versatility of faux wood beams, Volterra Architectural Products offers an extensive selection to suit every style and project. Our expertise in architectural products ensures that you can find the perfect beams to complement your home’s design. Contact us to explore our range and take the first step towards transforming your space with the beauty of beams.

The Return of Wood in Architecture: Vigas and Corbels in Contemporary Homes

Posted on February 27, 2024March 4, 2024 by Volterra

As contemporary architecture continuously evolves, the incorporation of traditional elements into modern designs has witnessed a resurgence, particularly in the use of wood. At Volterra, we are at the forefront of this revival, blending the timeless appeal of wood with the practicality of modern materials through our exquisite faux wood vigas and corbels. These architectural products not only pay homage to traditional craftsmanship but also cater to the demands of contemporary architectural aesthetics, durability, and maintenance ease.

The Aesthetic Appeal of Faux Wood Vigas

Faux wood vigas, including our flat-end and tapered-end varieties, offer a striking visual element to contemporary homes. These vigas mimic the rustic charm of real wood beams but are crafted from high-quality, durable materials that withstand the test of time. Ideal for both interior and exterior applications, faux wood vigas add depth and character to modern architecture, seamlessly bridging the gap between traditional beauty and modern functionality.

Enhancing Details With Faux Wood Corbels

Our collection of faux wood corbels, featuring styles like Doug Fir, Rough Sawn, and Majestic, serve as perfect accents to complement the vigas. These corbels are not only decorative but also evoke the essence of traditional woodwork. By incorporating these into contemporary designs, architects and designers can add intricate details and a sense of craftsmanship to modern homes, enriching their aesthetic appeal and historical value.

Durability and Maintenance Advantages

One of the standout benefits of opting for faux wood products in contemporary architecture is their exceptional durability and low maintenance requirements. Unlike natural wood, faux wood vigas and corbels are resistant to rot, insect damage, and weathering, ensuring they remain a lasting feature of any home. This makes them a practical choice for modern homeowners who value both aesthetics and functionality.

Versatility in Design

Faux wood vigas and corbels offer unparalleled versatility in design, allowing for customization to fit any architectural style or personal preference. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle addition to enhance your home’s exterior or a bold statement piece for interior spaces, these products can be tailored to meet your specific design goals. Their lightweight nature also simplifies installation, making them an ideal choice for a wide range of projects.

At Volterra, we understand the importance of merging tradition with innovation. Our faux wood vigas and corbels are designed to honor the past while embracing the future of architecture. By integrating these elements into contemporary homes, you can achieve a unique blend of style, durability, and historical depth. Explore our collection today and discover how you can transform your space with the beauty of faux wood products tailored for contemporary architecture.

Maximizing Space Perception: How Faux Wood Ceiling Beams Open Up Smaller Rooms

Posted on January 31, 2024March 4, 2024 by Volterra

In interior design, the illusion of space is just as crucial as the actual square footage. At Volterra Architectural Products, we understand that every design element plays a role in how a room is perceived. Faux wood ceiling beams, such as our Rustic, Rough Hewn, Doug Fir, and Hand Hewn beams, can significantly alter the perception of space in a smaller room, making it feel more open and expansive.

Drawing the Eye Upward

One of the primary ways faux wood beams open up a space is by drawing the eye upward. When you enter a room, your gaze naturally follows distinct lines and structures. Installing beams like our striking Rough Hewn beams along the ceiling can create vertical lines and elongate the perceived height of the room. This verticality gives the illusion of a higher ceiling, thus making the room appear larger than it actually is.

Creating Architectural Interest and Depth

Faux wood ceiling beams add a dynamic architectural element to a room. By incorporating designs such as our Hand Hewn beams, you introduce depth and texture, which can make a small room feel more spacious. The shadows and contours created by the beams add layers to the design, distracting from the room’s actual size and making the space feel more open and inviting.

Enhancing Light and Shadow Play

The interplay of light and shadow plays a significant role in how we perceive space. Faux wood beams, especially in lighter tones like our Doug Fir beams, can enhance this effect. The beams cast shadows and create highlights, which add visual depth and complexity to the ceiling, tricking the eye into perceiving more space.

Color and Texture Considerations

Choosing the right color and texture for your faux wood beams is crucial in maximizing space perception. Lighter-colored beams, like our Rustic options, tend to make the ceiling feel higher and the room larger. The texture of the beams also adds an interesting visual element that can draw attention and give the room a more expansive feel.

Strategic Placement for Maximum Impact

The placement of faux wood beams can greatly influence how room size is perceived. Positioning beams along the longest dimension of the room can elongate the space, while arranging them in unique patterns can break up the monotony of a small area, adding an element of surprise and visual interest.

Embracing the versatility and beauty of faux wood beams is a clever way to enhance the feeling of space in smaller rooms. From the charm of our Rustic Beams to the fine detailing of our Hand Hewn Beams, the right choice in faux wood ceiling beams can transform your space into an open, airy, and inviting area. Browse our online selection to explore our diverse range of faux wood beams and discover how they can revolutionize your interior spaces.

What Faux Wood is Best for Ceiling Beams?

Posted on January 26, 2024March 4, 2024 by Volterra

When it comes to enhancing your home’s interior with ceiling beams, the material you choose plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. At Volterra Architectural Products, we specialize in faux wood beams, offering a range of styles that suit various design preferences. From Doug Fir to Tuscany ridge and rafter beams, the choices are abundant. Let’s explore what faux wood is best for your ceiling beams.

Doug Fir Ridge and Rafter Beams for a Classic Look

Doug Fir ridge and rafter beams are ideal for those seeking a classic, timeless appearance. These beams replicate the look of traditional Douglas Fir wood, known for its straight grain and reddish-brown hue. Perfect for both rustic and contemporary spaces, Doug Fir beams add warmth and elegance to any room.

Sand Blast Ridge and Rafter Beams for a Distinct Texture

For those who prefer a more textured and weathered look, Sand Blast ridge and rafter beams are an excellent choice. These beams undergo a sandblasting process that accentuates the natural grain of the wood, giving them an aged, distressed appearance. This style is particularly suitable for homes aiming for a coastal or shabby chic aesthetic.

Hand-Hewn Ridge and Rafter Beams for Rustic Charm

Hand-hewn ridge and rafter beams are designed to mimic beams that were traditionally shaped using hand tools. This style is characterized by its rough texture and chiseled look, making it perfect for adding a rustic charm to your space. Hand-hewn beams work well in country-style homes or spaces that aim to have an authentic, old-world feel.

Rough-Sawn Ridge and Rafter Beams for an Authentic Feel

Rough-sawn ridge and rafter beams provide an authentic, unrefined look that’s perfect for industrial or farmhouse-style interiors. These beams have a less finished appearance, with saw marks and a slightly uneven surface, reflecting the beauty of natural imperfections.

Tuscany Ridge and Rafter Beams for Mediterranean Flair

For a touch of Mediterranean elegance, Tuscany ridge and rafter beams are the go-to. These beams feature a smooth, refined surface with subtle texturing, reminiscent of the warm, sun-bathed hues found in Tuscan architecture. They are ideal for creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere, particularly in kitchens and living areas.

Choosing the right faux wood beams for your ceiling is a decision that can significantly influence your home’s ambiance and style. At Volterra Architectural Products, we offer a diverse range of faux wood beams, from the classic Doug Fir to the sun-kissed Tuscany style. Explore our collection to find the perfect match for your design vision and elevate your space with the timeless beauty of faux wood beams.