FAUX WOOD VS WOOD BLINDS: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?

Posted on by Matt Schwegman

If you are looking for a simple, classic way to dress up your windows, a faux wood or wood blind may be an excellent fit.  At first glance, they look very similar to one another, but there are quite a few differences between the two types of blinds.  In this article, we will help describe faux wood and real wood blinds, discuss the differences/benefits and help guide you towards making the best choice for your home.

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FAUX WOOD BLINDS AND WOOD BLINDS

As the names state, the primary difference between faux wood blinds and wood blinds is the material used in the construction process.  Faux wood blind manufacturers use foam wood, PVC vinyl and composite materials to create the slats.  The slats are then stained so that the final product looks like natural wood, hence the name.

Wood blinds, on the other hand, feature real wood such as oak, bamboo, cherry, and other types of wood.  When not trying to highlight the wood blind’s actual natural wood (ie: painted wood blinds), many of the manufacturers use real basswood.

 

WHY CHOOSE FAUX WOOD BLINDS OVER WOOD BLINDS?

There are many reasons to choose faux wood blinds.  Here are some of the top features:

  • Affordable: Faux wood blinds are generally less expensive than real wood blinds.
  • Moisture Resistant: Faux wood materials are better for high humidity areas making them great for bathrooms, kitchens, and other windows exposed to the elements.
  • Easy Maintenance: Cleaning faux wood blinds is easy. You can use a simple feather duster for routine cleaning or wipe down the slats using a lint-free cloth dipped in a mixture of water and a household cleaning agent.
  • High Durability: The polymer construction with UV inhibitors resists yellowing, cracking, bending or breaking. Faux wood blinds are highly flexible.
  • Superior Insulation: PVC insulates better than real wood. Improved insulation means better energy efficiency.

 

 

WHY CHOOSE WOOD BLINDS OVER FAUX WOOD BLINDS?

There are also many reasons to choose wood blinds.  Here are some of the top features:

  • Extremely Attractive: Faux wood blinds do a good job of mimicking the look of real wood, but it’s impossible to match the alluring appearance of a genuine natural wood. Your visitors can tell the difference.
  • Easy Operation: Real wood blinds are significantly lighter weight than faux wood blinds. Therefore, they are easier to control and won’t feel too heavy during operation. When covering a large window, the added weight of faux wood blinds could create bowing and require additional ladders, thus blocking more of the view.
  • Custom Colors: You can custom color-match existing wood trims and finishes in your home. You can also add cotton cloth tapes in rich solids and decorative patterns for a great way to incorporate color and fashion.

 

 

NOW WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

If you are looking for an authentic, warm, natural look for your room, you should choose wood blinds as your window covering.  However, if durability or moisture resistance are your primary concerns, faux wood blinds provide an excellent compromise.

Alternatively, you can combine both options—use wood blinds in parts of the home where they are less likely to get exposed to the elements and faux wood in the more humid or sun-exposed rooms.

 

 

FAUX WOOD AND WOOD BLINDS YOU CAN TRUST IN NORTHWEST Montana

Regardless of where you land in the faux wood blinds vs. wood blinds debate, you can always count on us to recommend and provide you with the perfect wood window treatments.

At Made in the Shade, we have a rich selection of faux wood and wood blinds from which to choose. There are also many unique features to customize within these products, so it’s sure to be exciting as you transform your space. Request an appointment online today to schedule your free in-home consultation.  We can’t wait to see what you choose for your home!