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Creative Ideas for Using Polyurethane Beams

Creative Ideas for Using Polyurethane Beams
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Are you looking for an easy way to add more character and “pop” to your home without breaking your budget? Many homeowners, besides architects and contractors, are discovering the advantages of using polyurethane beams. Here are a few of numerous benefits of polyurethane beams, along with some creative ideas on how homeowners are using these products in their homes. 

 

Basic Benefits of Polyurethane Beams 

 

First, what exactly is polyurethane? Simply put, polyurethane is a unique material, which is used as a substitute for fiberglass, silicone, rubber, in addition to various other synthetic and natural materials, including wood, stone and brick. In fact, polyurethane is the most popular kind of plastic worldwide. 

  • One of the main perks of polyurethane beams is that they are exceptionally resistant to weather conditions, such as salt-water exposure. This makes them suitable for outdoors.
  • Also, they won’t rot because they’re not affected by water or insects.
  • Most people prefer polyurethane beams for their aesthetic value as they look like real wood but cost considerably less.
  • They’re generally easy to install and don’t require special tools.
  • Even though they may look heavy, these beams are much more lightweight than real wood, which makes them a practical option if you have a house that’s unable to withstand the heavy structural requirements needed when installing various types of solid woods.
  • Another plus is that they don’t require any upkeep, making them maintenance-free.
  • Furthermore, they’re environmentally friendly and are made of products that prevent waste material. Consider that polyurethane material doesn’t have any chlorofluorocarbons that can damage the atmosphere. 

Creative Ways to Use Polyurethane Beams in Your Home 

Polyurethane beams can be used in traditional, Mediterranean and craftsman homes in a variety of styles and ways, thanks to their lightweight quality. You can arrange them vertically, horizontally or a combination of both.

  • The most common place these beams are installed is on ceilings. For example, you could have them placed in regular intervals on a ceiling for a warm, farm-styled look. For an even more rustic appearance, why not first distress your beams before installing them.
  • They’re found on kitchen ceilings as well as living room, dining room, bedroom and bathroom ceilings.
  • Use them as decorative trusses on high ceilings or cathedral ceilings. They look just as stunning in smaller rooms when used as decorative trim. When placed in regular patterns on lower ceilings, they can depict the historical feeling of living in a medieval cottage.
  • Some homeowners use them to frame a doorway that divides two rooms, such as a living room and dining room. If you really want to get creative, why not position these beams in the shape of a ladder to render a nautical feeling.
  • Use them to decorate walls. Since they can be placed both horizontally and vertically, you may want to use them for creating an accent wall.
  • What’s more, you could make shelves for books or knick-knacks so that they serve a functional purpose, besides look decorative. 
  • Moreover, you can use your beams to cover unsightly items, such as a soffit, which is exposed siding under a roof’s overhang.
  • Does your home include skylights? If so, consider using polyurethane beams to frame your skylights. 

Other Considerations and Warnings

  • When choosing your beams, think about the effect they will have on a room’s lighting. Consider that darker colors can make a ceiling seem lower than it is, while lighter colors seem to create a more spaciousness look.
  • Do you want an aged, rustic appearance, or would you rather have a contemporary look?
  • Even though polyurethane beams are significantly lighter than real wood, you still need to install them correctly and be sure your ceiling can support them. Therefore, check the structural integrity of your ceiling. This means knowing how much the beams weigh, so you can know whether your ceiling joists are able to support your the beams.
  • Determine whether you should install the beams yourself or if it would be better to hire a professional. 

When it comes to quality, you can depend on Worthington Millwork American made architectural products. Please visit us and check out our rustic “wood-look” collection , rustic beams and huge variety of brackets.