When selecting window blinds that enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal, determining real wood vs faux wood construction clarifies durable performance benefits and budget-friendly options personalized to your priorities. Below we analyze helpful considerations, weighed from environmental impact and longevity to style customization across varied spaces when deciding between authentic wood grain textures or quality composite imitations.
Benefits of Real Wood Blinds
Natural Authentic Look
Wood blind slats crafted from bamboo, oak, maple, cherry or exotic teak flaunt unrivaled organic beauty with artisanal knots, grains and color variations. Faux wood alternatives emulate patterns through printing or staining but lack depth.
Eco-Friendly Sourcing
Responsible wood blind suppliers demonstrate sustainability through FSC certified partner mills, meaning timber is ethically forested instead of clear-cut, maximizing conservation. Composite manufacturing has higher waste.
Durability & Insulating Value
Properly sealed real woods withstand humidity and offer inherent sound dampening with density that also insulates heat/cold. Though advanced sealing gives vinyl resistance now too.
Custom Staining/Painting
Tailor the real wood palette on-site through specialty paint and stain options unmatched among faux counterparts reliant on factory coloring with less flexibility.
Benefits of Faux Wood Blinds
Affordability & Accessibility
Quality composite blind materials like vinyl and recyclable polymers cost approximately 40% less than real woods, making window coverage more affordable, especially for larger dimensional settings.
Easy Maintenance
Faux wood resists warping, splintering or rotting under moisture and requires only simple dusting, while authentic wood demands vigilant sealing and protection to uphold integrity.
Light Filtering Properties
Innovations like perforated/louvered PVC slats borrowed from Venetian counterparts allow adjustable light control. Traditional wood textures have fixed visibility once cut.
Range of Textures
From smooth, brushed, distressed to embossed wood grain finishes, faux metals and beyond, synthetic composite blind development offers exponentially more textures versus the limitations of natural wood stocks.
Key Decision Factors
Window Type & Size Compatibility
Faux woods fasten well across window variations like sliders and casements that swell/contract. Natural woods require meticulous fitting adjustments under skilled craftsmen for optimal longevity.
Room Purpose & Light Needs
Busier family spaces benefit from durable easy-care faux wood, while formal living rooms flaunt impressive real wood grains showcasing artisanal craftsmanship. Assess priorities room-by-room.
Budget Scope & Timing
If working within tighter budgets, quality PVC blinds balance cost, performance and style gracefully. Those without imminent deadlines can save incrementally for premium woods.
FAQs
1. Are faux wood blinds durable for pets and kids?
Yes, vinyl and composite woods resist moisture, warping and denting well for active households. Focus on cleaning along bottom slats and cords.
2. Do real wood blinds provide good light control?
Functionality depends on slat size, tilt and wood opacity. Smaller slats and adjustable louvers/perforations increase control. Denser exotic woods block more light naturally.
3. Can faux wood blinds be motorized?
Absolutely. Motorization upgrades enhancing convenience are readily compatible with vinyl and PVC blind functionality, operated easily by remote or voice controls.
Conclusion
Choosing between faux wood and natural wood blinds is a decision that involves balancing aesthetics, durability, and environmental impact. Consider your preferences, budget, and the unique characteristics of each material to make an informed choice that enhances both the style and functionality of your space.
To determine the right wood blind recommendations customized to your household’s needs, contact Kerrville Window Fashions today for a complimentary in-home design consultation assessing your rooms. Our team helps creatively balance both function and beautiful form specific to your windows.
