Faux Wood Blinds

An Affordable Alternative to Wood Blinds

Wood blinds are an attractive way to decorate a window. They're practical, allow light in while providing privacy, and can provide insulation. They increase the resale value of your home, and don't require additional treatments (although they also look nice with valances or curtains).

Despite these positives, there are some downsides to wood blinds. For one, they can be quite expensive, particularly if you plan to use them in a number of windows. Prices can vary depending on the type of wood and style, but the bottom line is that they can add up. Wood blinds can also show nicks and scratches much more than other options. Finally, they do not do as well in areas with high humidity (such as in bathrooms or certain geographical areas). As a result, warping, mildew, or mold can result.

On the other hand, faux wood blinds are much less expensive, do not show scratches as much, and can withstand moisture. They are easy to clean, and come in a variety of styles.

They are also a good option for homes with young children, as they're durable. For those who like the idea of wood blinds, but not the downsides, wooden shades are a viable alternative.

Vinyl blinds are known by a few other names, such as alternative wood, wood-like, and Polywood, although many manufacturers and retailers refer to them as faux wood. If you ask for them by faux wood, sellers will know what you are talking about and will be able to show you all your options.

They are primarily made from vinyl or a combination of vinyl and wood. The resulting texture feels much like plastic, but faux wood blinds are designed to look as much like real wood as possible.

Styles of faux wood blinds

Many manufacturers of wood blinds now offer faux options, which is better for the consumer. This provides you more options from which to choose.

However, because of how faux blinds are made, and because they weigh less than wood blinds, you are more limited in styles than if you were to buy wood blinds.

For example, faux blinds have more slats (ladders) than wood blinds because of the lighter material--smaller slats make them easier to turn. If you prefer a larger slat, you might want to consider a different option, or look for a blind that combines vinyl and wood.

These will be heavier, so you can choose a blind with larger slats.

In general, be wary of cheap faux wood blinds, as these may be made of non-vinyl materials. If they are extremely lightweight, fake looking, or priced too well to be true, you may be in for disappointment.

Some of the most popular sizes of slats in wood blinds are one and two inch. As a result, manufacturers of faux wood window blinds make options with these widths as well. Stylistically, it's mostly a design preference.

However, if you can afford it, consider looking for a vinyl and wood combination if you want 2-inch faux wood blinds. These will turn easier, and will be sturdier, better matching the look of their real wood counterparts. 2 and 1 faux wood shades are available in different options, ranging from basic to deluxe. Again, it depends on your budget and style preference.

Levolor faux wood blinds, for example, come in a range of natural shades in widths of 1, 2, and 2 1/2 inches. Other styles are also available, such as faux wood mini blinds.

In addition, because faux blinds cannot be stained, you are limited to the colors in which the blinds are made. Manufacturers try to make blinds in the most popular stain and color choices, but you may discover that you cannot find a color that is exactly right.

The good news is that color in vinyl runs through the material, so if the blind is scratched, the color "underneath" the scratch is the same, making the scratch less noticeable. In addition to color limitations, you may also be limited by some sizes. Some manufacturers allow for some customization, but many are made to pre-determined sizes.

When measuring for faux wood blinds, first determine if the blinds will hang inside the window frame or outside. This is important! Your measurements need to be as accurate as possible.

As such, it is a good idea to use a wood measuring stick or a firm metal one (cloth measuring tapes have too much give, which can lead to inaccurate measurements). It's a good idea to take your measurements twice for accuracy.

For inside-mounted blinds, measure the height and width to the nearest 1/8 of an inch. For externally mounted blinds, measure the height and width to the nearest 1/8 of an inch, but ALSO allow for an extra 1 1/2 inches for each (height and width) to ensure privacy. If you are not sure about how to measure, contact your retailer or manufacturer. Many provide specific directions for measuring for their product.

Shopping for faux wood blinds

When shopping for faux wood blinds, consider all aspects of the purchase before you buy. Many come with a lifetime warranty, which provides some peace of mind, and also ensures that the blinds are probably decent quality.

Make sure the warrant covers the opening and closing mechanisms in addition to the blind materials. If you do have some sort of problem, it's more likely that it will be with the mechanical aspects than the materials.

Keep in mind that many well-known manufacturers now offer faux wood blinds. If you have a favorite brand of wood blind manufacturer, check to see if they offer faux alternatives. You may be pleasantly surprised. Shop around for differences in colors and textures.

Some manufacturers only make faux blinds in a few colors. Other companies offer a range of faux blinds, starting with very basic, economical options, a midline-priced option, and a deluxe model. There are variances in these from company to company, so you may be able to find a middle-priced version from one company that is comparable to a deluxe model from another company.

Faux wood blinds have been around for a while now, and the options are much better than they used to be. If you have been hesitant to look into faux blinds, you may be pleasantly surprised at what is now available. If you love the look of wood blinds, but not the price, consider faux wood blinds.