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

Posted on July 11, 2022August 31, 2022 by Volterra

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

Posted on July 1, 2022August 8, 2022 by Volterra

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.

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.

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?

Posted on May 3, 2022August 8, 2022 by Volterra

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

Posted on April 27, 2022March 14, 2024 by Volterra

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.

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.

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.

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

Posted on January 9, 2023January 9, 2023 by Volterra

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!

Shop Materials to Elevate Your Home

Do Faux Wood Beams Add Value?

Posted on March 16, 2022August 8, 2022 by Volterra

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.

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.

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.

Where Do You Put Faux Beams?

Posted on March 15, 2022August 8, 2022 by Volterra

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.

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!

Why Contractors Prefer Faux Beams

Posted on March 14, 2022August 8, 2022 by Volterra

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.

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.

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.

5 Creative Ways to Decorate With Shiplap

Posted on March 9, 2022March 14, 2024 by Volterra

5 Creative Ways to Decorate With Shiplap

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.

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.

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.

Reasons Why Faux Wood Beams Are Environmentally Friendly

Posted on March 23, 2022August 8, 2022 by Volterra

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.

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.

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.