Window treatments are crucial interior design elements. There are tons of types and designs solutions to satisfy countless tastes and preferences. Faux wood and wood blinds often pose a dilemma: they look similar, but are made of different materials.
Faux wood blinds
Faux wood blinds are made of PVC/vinyl and composite materials. They imitate wood grain patterns and come in different color variations. These patterns look very realistic and give your home a natural appearance.
Faux wood, particularly the type used in blinds, is actually laminated veneer lumber – a material consisting of compressed wood strips and adhesives (resin). Sheets have a protective coating that can have different color shades and patterns.
Well, what’s good about them?
- Today’s engineering has provided us a unique material, which is resistant to outer influences, such as moist, heat, mildew, heat, cold, etc.
- They do not warp or crack and withstand all sorts of climate.
- Faux wood blinds are cheaper and more durable than wood.
- They are best suited for rooms with high humidity levels – bathrooms, kitchens, etc.
Now, what’s bad about them?
- Faux wood is more heavyweight than natural wood. Therefore, they are better suited for smaller windows. If you use faux wood blinds on a large window, you may find it hard to raise/lower them.
- Some types of faux wood may contain unhealthy chemicals, which can cause allergic reactions. Some of them are very toxic and potentially carcinogenic.
Wood blinds
They are crafted from natural wood and boast great aesthetic value. They go well with any interior and bring a touch of nature into your home. They come in various stains and colors and create a potential for adjustment and customization.
So, why should one choose wood blinds?
- Wood is more lightweight than faux wood, so wood blinds are easier to fix. This makes them more suitable for large windows, because raising/lowering one will be effortless.
- Pleasant smell is one more thing that makes wood attractive.
- Natural wood is more energy-efficient and healthier than faux wood.
- Finally, even though faux wood does imitate genuine wood quite well, it will never beat the charm of natural wood!
What are the downsides?
- Wood is weather sensitive. Temperature and humidity changes can cause your wood blinds to fade, warp, crack, and peel. For this reason, wood blinds are not the best option for areas with unstable weather. They may lose shape due to exposure to sunlight. It is not advisable to use them on windows that face South-East, South, and South-West.
- Wood blinds are more expensive than faux wood blinds.
- They require more careful cleaning, because wood is sensitive to some chemicals. Failure to choose the right type of cleaning agent can damage the coating and wood and reduce its life.
What to consider when choosing blinds
As follows from the above, your choice should depend on the type of room, window size, interior style, climate zone, your preferences, and budget.
