corbels Archives - Volterra Architectural Products

How Adding Faux Corbels to Your Home Boosts Curb Appeal

Posted on June 6, 2023June 6, 2023 by Volterra

When it comes to home design and architecture, it’s often the subtle details that make the most significant impact. One such element that has stood the test of time is the corbel – a centuries-old feature with a proven track record for enhancing curb appeal. Our faux wood corbels at Volterra Architectural Products can transform your property’s aesthetic, providing that sought-after blend of charm and sophistication.

Subtle Enhancement with Faux Corbels

Faux corbels, despite their seemingly insignificant size, are capable of profoundly altering a structure’s visual appeal. They exude a classical aesthetic, lending an air of grandeur to otherwise mundane spaces. Whether placed under the roofline, beneath window sills, or adorning an entryway, these faux wood corbels add a delightful architectural detail that catches the eye.

Versatile Design Elements

Another advantage of faux corbels is their versatility. Available in various styles, shapes, and sizes, they can adapt to virtually any architectural design. Whether your home leans towards traditional, rustic, or modern, there’s a faux corbel that will seamlessly blend with your existing decor, accentuating its character.

Durability and Maintenance

Given that our faux wood corbels are made from polyurethane, they offer excellent durability and resistance to weather elements. Unlike natural wood, they won’t warp, crack, or decay, ensuring your home maintains its allure year-round. Furthermore, these architectural corbels are maintenance-free, a significant benefit for busy homeowners who desire style without the added upkeep.

Sustainable Choice

Choosing faux wood corbels isn’t just a design choice; it’s a sustainable one. By opting for these architectural details, you contribute to the preservation of our forests, while still achieving the desired look and feel of real wood. Volterra Architectural Products is committed to providing sustainable, aesthetically pleasing solutions for your home improvement needs.

Transform your home’s curb appeal with the subtle yet striking addition of faux wood corbels. With their versatile design, durability, and sustainability, they’re an excellent choice for those seeking to add a touch of sophistication to their properties. Explore Volterra Architectural Products’ wide array of faux corbels and begin your journey to enhancing your home’s architectural charm today.

Use Decorative Wood Corbels For Your Next Remodel

Posted on September 30, 2020October 29, 2020 by Paul Birkhead

A corbel is a wall beam used in construction to support a shelf, mantel or small projecting wall. Decorative wood corbels can add a touch of style to any home – both indoors and out. Fake wood corbels come in many different styles ranging from very simple to extremely ornate. They have the appearance of elaborately carved wood, but cost much less than the real thing. Aside from their affordability, there are many other benefits to using fake wood corbels, including their durability, versatility and ease of installation. The wood corbels available at Volterra Architectural Products are made of high-density polyurethane foam which is cast from real-wood molds. The result is a durable and elegant finished product that looks just like real wood. We also offer four different textures of fake wood corbels: mill cut, Doug Fir, saw cut, and smooth. Which texture you choose will depend on the architectural style of your home and your personal preferences. These corbels can then be painted or stained to match the décor of your home. Decorative wood corbels are not load-bearing structures, so they can be easily installed using a power drill and a couple of wood screws or nails. Simply drill holes in the back of the corbel, and hang on screws or nails affixed to a wood stud in the wall. It’s that easy. Fake wood corbels can also be easily uninstalled, moved and reinstalled if you ever choose to redecorate your home. Installing wood corbels beneath fireplace mantels, shelves and other projections in your home can add architectural interest that can serve as a focal point in a room. If you’re considering fake corbels for your upcoming home remodel, call 602.258.7373 today. Volterra offers a wide selection of faux wood corbels at very affordable prices in Phoenix and throughout the Southwest.

Installing Faux Wood Corbels in 7 Easy Steps

Posted on July 14, 2020May 2, 2023 by Volterra

Wood corbels can be applied in a variety of settings. They are a great way to spruce up the exterior millwork surrounding your home. The issue with corbels made from real wood, however, is that in just a few years they can begin to split, rot, and deteriorate. If you want to create a unique and attractive home exterior and enhance your home’s overall curb appeal with wood corbels, rather than using real wood, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and hassle by choosing faux wood corbels.

At Volterra Architectural Products, we are a leading manufacturer of decorative corbels and other polyurethane architectural details. Our faux wood corbels are manufactured with a high-density foam material, therefore, they are more lightweight, durable, and cost-effective, yet replicate the appearance of real Doug Fir corbels.

Why Install New Faux Wood Corbels?

The benefits of Volterra’s decorative corbels are too good to pass up. Installing them is a breeze and we’re going to prove it. Watch our experts share how to properly install faux wood corbels to the exterior of your home:

Step #1: Mark Where You’ll Cut a Notch

You’ll need to cut out a notch so that the faux wood corbels will fit tightly underneath the fascia board. To find the proper cutting spot, place the corbel on the exterior wall where you will be installing the corbel. Make a mark on the top where you’ll cut a notch. After you have made the markings, use a square to draw clean lines for the notch.

Step #2: Use a Saw to Make Small Cuts

Next, you’ll need to get a standard wood-cutting hand saw. Using medium pressure, make two slight cuts on the markings you made — where the fascia will fit into the corbel. Then, use a utility knife to make the other two cuts perpendicular to the saw cuts. After that, use a chisel and mallet to chisel out the notch at a slight angle.

Step #3: Screw Wood Blocking to the Wall

Screw a pre-cut two-by-four wood block to the exterior wall through the stucco system and into the structural blocking inside of the wall cavity. The block will fit firmly in the back of the corbel. To secure the wood block, we recommend placing a screw in each corner.

Step #4: Secure the Faux Wood Corbel to the Wood Block

Now that the wood block is screwed into the wall, you should be able to fit the corbel over it firmly. Using exterior-grade screws, fasten the corbel to the wood blocking. Make sure to countersink a screw slightly into the corbel. Then, screw the corbel to the fascia board.

Step #5: Install the Blocks

Many homes that have exterior corbels have small wooden blocks in between. If you plan on installing them, do so now. Volterra’s corbels and blocks are manufactured with HDF material. Most of our HDF products have a cavity in the back that allows for a block or cleat to be used for fastening purposes. Screws are typically enough to hold these products in place.

Step #6: Apply High-Grade Exterior Caulking

Once you have the corbels and blocks fastened, use high-grade exterior caulking to seal the corbels where they meet the fascia board. You can use the caulking to also fill in any visible screw holes. Wood putty or auto bonding can also be used to fill in screw holes for a nice texture.

Step #7: Add Any Finishing Touches

You can order faux wood corbels primed or in five available exterior-grade stains. Whichever style or type of corbels you order, do a final inspection to make sure that there aren’t any finishing touches required. You may need to add some stain or do some sanding to smooth out the dried caulking.

With all the proper tools and materials, installing these faux wood corbels is an easy weekend project for a handy homeowner. Once installed to your exterior, your home will have a custom look that is sure to add some flair to the curb appeal of your home.

Purchase Faux Wood Corbels Today

When it comes to decorative corbels, Volterra has a variety of sizes and styles to choose from that replicate the appearance of Doug Fir — such as cove corbels, scroll corbels, and more — making it easy to find something that matches the appearance of your home’s exterior. We have faux wood corbels for both interior and exterior use, both of which require virtually no maintenance and will still last twice as long as real wood corbels would be expected to.

Whether you want to install corbels for the first time or are looking for a durable, cost-effective solution to replace your old, weather-beaten real wood corbels, we encourage you to shop our selection of Doug Fir corbels today!

Achieving Southwest Style Ceilings

Posted on January 10, 2020October 29, 2020 by Volterra

Throughout the Southwest there are many traditional styles of homes. While there are fewer and fewer houses boasting the classic adobe look, modern homes have borrowed a few architectural elements from the Southwest style. For instance, viga beams, which were a staple of Southwestern homes, have found their way into modern ceiling designs to great affect. If this is the style you’re after, here’s how it can be accomplished using today’s faux wood beam products.

What Are Viga Beams?

Viga beams are large structural beams that were commonly seen in adobe houses and other Southwestern homes. These beams were typically made of rough hewn logs, and retained much of their natural character. Today, many builders still go for this rustic look, but modern builders sometimes use squared beams instead. Unlike European inspired ceiling beams, another feature of Viga beams is that they often run around the room in concentric circles working out toward the edge of the room or in the same direction as the ceiling’s longest stretch.

Ceiling Planks

In addition to Viga beams, many Southwest style homes also feature ceiling planks. These flat planks slide together to create a beautifully textured ceiling finish. In some cases, the ceiling is covered by these planks first, and then the viga beams are installed beneath them, adding multiple dimensions to the look. The best way to do this is to install the beams perpendicular to the direction that the planks run, which will draw the eye upward. In addition, using larger beams over the planks creates a more pronounced look, and you can even choose a darker color for the beams to accent the light colored planks.

Outdoor Accents

Another staple of Southwest style architecture is the protrusion of beams on the exterior of the house. You can add these accents to the outside of your home along the roofline use faux wood accents. These small sections are designed to mount easily to the exterior surface of your home and match your trim. These can be installed even if the interior of your home does not have matching beams. You can also find matching shutters and vents that look great with these exterior posts and dress up your windows and any high points on your roof. There are many distinct facets of Southwest style architecture, and with faux wood beams you can mix and match them to find a look that suits your home. To learn more about faux wood products and Southwest style accents, visit Volterra online and check out our gallery.

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What Is Curb Appeal Really Worth?

Posted on March 12, 2020October 29, 2020 by Volterra

A lot of times, when you’re talking about a major renovation to a home, you will hear something about the added curb appeal of the completed project. This is usually in reference to your return on investment when you’re considering how much to spend. Unfortunately, curb appeal is hardly measurable in real numbers, so it’s important to know what it’s really worth if you plan on selling your home.

What Is Curb Appeal?

Curb appeal is the rather subjective measure of how attractive your home appears to passersby from the street level. In the past, this was an important metric when it came to photo books full of houses for sale. Today, curb appeal plays a slightly different role in the real estate market, and its definition has expanded to include more of a “first impression” whether viewing the house from the street or from an initial photograph. Either way, curb appeal is definitely something you want to have.

Why It’s Important

When you’re in a competitive housing market, curb appeal can be a major factor in getting more potential buyers into your home. If there are tons of houses on the market, it stands to reason that buyers will look at the most attention-grabbing ones first, which typically means the ones that look best on the outside. Of course, if the outside of your home is lacking, your agent may opt for a magazine-worthy image of your glistening kitchen instead to create that first visual impact. The more buyers you get looking at your home, the more likely you are to get a good offer, and the sooner you can go under contract. If you’re waiting to close on another house this can be a lifesaver.

Increasing Curb Appeal

There are many ways to increase curb appeal on your house. A fresh exterior with neatly painted trim is a good start. It makes your home look modern, and ensures that it stands out from all the other pictures on the web. In addition, clean landscaping and a beautifully accented entryway can also do the trick. You can even dress up your home’s exterior with ornamental trim, corbels, or shutters from Volterra Architectural Products. These inexpensive changes can not only increase the beauty of your home, but increase its value to potential buyers.

For more creative ways to add curb appeal to your house, visit Volterra online. We are happy to help you find products that will match your trim and fit the style of your home for added curb appeal.

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What are High Density Foam Products?

Posted on September 10, 2018October 29, 2020 by Volterra

HDF Wood Beam Products One of the most common types of high density foam products is wood beams. HDF wood beams are made specifically for decorative purposes, and easily replicate the look of sturdy ceiling beams or trusses at only a fraction of the weight. They are extremely easy to install and secure without fear of damaging the ceiling structure.

HDF Outdoor Planks

High density foam products are also ideal for use outside because they are not subject to rotting or breaking down like real wood. As such, you will see these products in spaces such as the ceilings of covered patio spaces. The finish on HDF planks is baked on at the time of manufacture, so they can stand the test of time even under bright sunshine or extreme weather. Volterra Architectural Products carries a wide range of high density foam products for your home’s interior and exterior. From your window trim to your floor boards, high density foam is a perfect solution that is both durable and easy to work with. Visit Volterra’s online gallery to see more of these products in action.]]>

Why You Should Use HDF Corbels in Your House

Posted on August 21, 2019October 29, 2020 by Volterra

Since time immemorial, corbels have been used as not just support structures but decorative elements which add life to otherwise lifeless construction. Over the years, corbels have undergone massive changes in both the composition of the corbel material and the decorative details on the corbels. We moved from the medieval stone corbels to wooden corbels, and we are now seeing a dominance of high density foam corbels. Although not as structurally strong as stone or wood, foam corbels are just as effective as the two, and they have their advantages which have seen millions of people fall in love with them. If you are in the market for corbels, here are reasons why foam corbels should be your go-to option:

Authentic Beauty

Whether you are looking to achieve the rustic look of natural wood or want a contemporary personalized style, foam corbels will help you achieve the look of your dreams. Foam corbels are highly customizable to help you achieve the elegance your house needs.

Durability

Foam corbels are very durable and will withstand the elements for years. Corbels are very solid and structurally sound. Whether you intend to use them as door corbels, window corbels or even wall corbels, they will stand strong for many years.

More Versatile than Wood and Stone

Foam corbels are more versatile compared to wood and stone. Foam is very easy to work with, and you can customize it into different designs and add more elements to the corbels. With their versatility, you can use foam corbels in a range of spaces without them looking out of place.

Economical

Foam corbels are more affordable than their wooden and stone counterparts. For all their versatility and beauty, you won’t have to break the bank. You can buy them at very affordable rates and use them to build your dream home. Want the best foam corbels for renovations or building a new home? Give us a call here at Volterra for the best foam corbels in the market.]]>

4 Benefits of High Density Foam

Posted on August 14, 2017September 15, 2022 by Volterra

High density polyurethane foam products have grown in popularity in the build and design industry and it really doesn’t come as a surprise. They are steadily replacing the love for natural wood and other interior design materials which dominated the industry for a long time.

At Volterra Architectural Products, we utilize quality high density foam to create faux wood beams, trusses, and other architectural details. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what high density foam is and the benefits it offers.

What is High Density Foam?

High density foam is a type of polyurethane foam that is known for its high strength and durability. It is often used in construction and industrial applications where strength and stability are key. High density foam is also popular in the design world due to its ability to be shaped and molded into almost any form. This makes it the perfect material for creating faux wood beams, trusses, and other architectural details, which is why we utilize it here at Volterra.

Durable

High density foam is highly durable and will stand the test of time. Unlike wood, it will not warp, rot, or crack and is not susceptible to insect damage. Products manufactured with this material can last for over 20 years. The solid nature of the material also makes it usable in demanding outdoor environments.

Versatile

High density foam products are versatile and can be used for a variety of applications. They can be cut, sawed, glued, screwed, and painted to create the desired look. Plus, as mentioned, it can be molded into almost any shape, making it the perfect material for use in architecture and design. Products can also be easily customized with different looks, designs and even colors.

Affordable

It’s no secret that lumber prices have been on the rise in recent years. Fortunately, high density foam products offer a much more budget-friendly alternative to natural wood. In fact, foam products are typically 30-50% cheaper than their wood counterparts. The money you save on materials can be invested elsewhere in your project.

Lightweight

High density foam products are also much lighter than natural wood, making them much easier to work with. This can be a big advantage when it comes to the installation process. Volterra’s faux wood beams that are manufactured with high density foam, for example, will not come with the same installation hassle of real wood ceiling beams.

As you can see, there are many benefits to using high density foam products. You can find products that fit just about any application, but for those related to your interior needs, look no further than Volterra Architectural Products. We utilize high density foam to create faux wood beams, trusses, and other architectural details that are not only beautiful but also highly durable and cost-effective. Shop today!

3 Exterior Design Tips for Your Home

Posted on August 7, 2017October 29, 2020 by Volterra

1. Accentuate windows and doors with trims Beyond landscaping and the roof of your home, the front door and windows are the first things people notice when they approach any house. The last thing you want is for your front door and windows to lack character and give your guests a bad impression about your home. It only takes the addition of high quality trim to your front door and windows from Volterra Architectural Products to give your home charm and personality that will make a lasting first impression to your guests.

2. Add much needed curb appeal to your home using corbels and brackets

Add some much needed curb appeal to your property by using our lavish and intricately designed decorative exterior brackets and corbels. The corbels can be used just below the roof or around the corners and edges of the house and will add subtle character to the walls.

3. Vents- simple, effective and eye-catching

As much as vents are a necessity for ventilation, they can also be a good decorative element for the exterior. Peruse through the range of vents we have here in Volterra and choose the type and design of vents which will help eliminate the monotony of plain walls. Volterra Architectural Products offers a variety of products that can give your home an updated look. Help your home stand out from the crowd by contacting us on our website of by calling 602-258-7373.]]>

3 Clever Uses for Foam Corbels

Posted on May 1, 2017October 29, 2020 by Volterra

1. Kitchen cabinets Foam corbels are perfect for under kitchen cabinets because minimum support is required here. Since the cabinets are bolted to the walls, the foam corbels will be used solely for decoration. When fitted perfectly, foam corbels accentuate the kitchen cabinet giving ordinary builder-grade cabinets a custom look that is appealing to the eye.

2. Fireplace

Many people omit the fireplace mantel when thinking about decorating their homes. This however, should not be the case because the fireplace can be a spectacle when decorated with the right elements. There is no better way of decorating your fireplace and giving it a grand look than dressing it up with foam corbels. Adding corbels underneath the mantel or on the floating shelf will give it an astonishingly elegant finish.

3. Kitchen counters and Islands

The sides of most kitchen counters are often plain and simple. Curved foam corbels can be used to add elegance to the kitchen counters and offer a decorative element to kitchen counter overhangs. The results are truly amazing and your kitchen will be transformed forever. Island bar tops are beautifully accented with decorative corbels. Foam corbels are one of the fine details that can make or break the aesthetic of a house. They come either smooth or in a variety of textures and stain colors so you can find something that matches the other architectural elements in your home. They can also be painted to match colors or provide an accent. Volterra Architectural Products offers foam corbels in a variety of sizes and designs to spruce up your home. ]]>