Faux wood blinds are offered as an interesting choice for potential customers who are looking to change and venture into some new window treatments. They have a seamless style that works well in any room. They have a calming presence and stylish texture. You can never really go wrong while using faux wood blinds. There is, however, some concern as to whether these blinds are toxic and can cause concerns for the health of the occupants of a home. It is pertinent to address these concerns so that consumers can make an informed decision on whether or not to invest in faux wood blinds.
What Are Faux Wood Blinds Though?
Faux wood blinds are blinds where the slats are manufactured to resemble real wooden blinds. They are cheaper to make and offer themselves as viable substitutes for real wooden blinds. The purpose of making blinds similar to wooden blinds is to give the look and feel of the wooden blinds but also make them last longer and reduce the manufacturing cost of making such blinds. The difference between both the blinds is almost indiscernible. The only way to find out if someone has got real wooden blinds or faux wooden blinds is if you can spot wood grain at the edges of the slats of the blinds.
So, Are Faux Blinds Toxic?
To get a cheaper version of wooden blinds, faux blinds are manufactured using polyvinyl chloride (commonly referred to as PVC). Fashioning products out of PVC means that it undergoes a chemical process as well. This is what leads to those health concerns. Chemicals such as formaldehyde are used to make faux wood blinds.
Under most conventional circumstances, faux wood blinds are safe; you might want to take some precautions if you or someone you live with has a sensitivity issue towards chemicals such as formaldehyde. It never hurts to take some precaution by not exposing the blinds to aggravated dampness and to wear a mask while cleaning them.
The other thing that people worry about is whether the manufacture of these blinds is environmentally friendly. With innovation in manufacturing technology every day, the manufacturing process is getting fine-tuned to incorporate environmental concerns. As of now, it depends on the specific seller. You might want to talk to your seller and inquire about the manufacturing process if you want your queries answered.
Now That I Understand The Risk, Should I Get Faux Wood Blinds?
Given that they are usually safe, you might want to know if there are some additional benefits to getting faux wood blinds or whether real wooden blinds would work better for you. Its obvious now that they are more cost-effective and will be easier on the wallet to purchase. They are also durable and last quite long. The need for replacement will probably only arise if you want to change the look of the room.
Additionally, they are completely waterproof. They come in different colors and textures. The cost of maintenance for these blinds is not high either. They can be wiped clean using some solution and cloth or simply dusted regularly.
Despite these advantages, you will have to make provisions for some of the other mild inconveniences that you might encounter if you decide to buy faux wood blinds. One of these minor inconveniences is that faux wood blinds are heavier than real wood blinds. This is usually not a problem. But, if you have a large window, you will have to exert a little bit of energy in raising and drawing the blinds. Your other option is to just tilt the slats to allow the light to get through.
With These Advantages, Are Faux Wood Blinds Better Than Real Wood Blinds?
The answer to this question is not binary.
Although the difference between real wooden blinds and faux wood blinds is negligible in terms of look and design it is hard to match the genuine authenticity of the real wood blinds. They have adapted over time despite having substitutes and competitors to become timeless pieces of home décor that have not lost their appeal. It is also important to note that real wood blinds cannot handle humid rooms as well as faux blinds which is why it might not be the best idea to install real wood blinds in rooms like kitchens and bathrooms where humidity is a common feature.
On the flip side, real wood blinds are really good natural insulators of heat. They can trap the cold air within. This also means that they can potentially help in energy efficiency.
They are perfect fits for bedrooms and drawing rooms. Custom made wooden blinds that are painted, or have stained and rustic finishes can be tailor-made to give a polished yet disproportionate look to your blinds.
The cost of maintaining real wooden blinds is a little more than faux wooden blinds but not so much as to discourage you from buying wooden blinds. You might need some furniture polish or lemon tree oil coupled with some dusting is all that you might need.
What Do I Choose Then?
It is always a question of preference; faux wood blinds are usually safe enough to try and are also affordable options. Real wooden blinds on the other hand have a sense of authenticity to them which can also make them favorites. People rarely notice the difference between the two types unless they inspect closely. Despite which of the two blinds you choose, you can always get creative and add valances and drapery to change the aesthetic of the room. Keep in mind to make sure the blinds suit the theme and aesthetic of the room.
