Bamboo flooring has grown in popularity in recent years as an environmentally friendly and attractive flooring option. Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that can be harvested and processed into floor planks in just 5-7 years, compared to slower-growing hardwoods that can take decades to mature. Bamboo flooring offers a number of advantages as well as some potential drawbacks to consider. This in-depth bamboo flooring review covers all the key pros and cons to help you determine if bamboo is the right flooring choice for your home.
What is Bamboo Flooring?
Bamboo flooring consists of stalks of bamboo that are cut into thin strands, pressed together under high pressure, and then laminated into planks. There are two main types of bamboo flooring:
- Horizontal bamboo flooring – The bamboo strands are laminated horizontally, similar to traditional hardwood floor planks. This results in visible grain patterns on the surface.
- Vertical bamboo flooring – The bamboo fibers are laminated vertically and then compressed. Vertical bamboo flooring has a finer, more uniform look compared to the horizontal type.
Once the basic planks are created, bamboo flooring can be further processed to produce alternative visual styles. Some techniques include:
- Carbonization – Bamboo planks are exposed to heat to caramelize the natural sugars and alter the color to various shades of brown.
- Staining – Bamboo absorbs stain well, allowing planks to be stained in a wide range of colors and tones.
- Smoke treated – Bamboo planks are smoked over an open fire to induce a rich, smoky appearance.
No matter the style, bamboo flooring is very hard and durable while also offering visual appeal. Keep reading to learn more about the advantages and potential disadvantages of selecting bamboo flooring.
Pros of Bamboo Flooring
There are many benefits that make bamboo flooring an attractive choice for many homeowners:
Sustainable and Renewable Resource
One of the biggest advantages of bamboo flooring is its sustainability. Bamboo is a highly renewable resource, achieving maturity for harvest in just a few years compared to the decades needed for hardwood trees. As a fast-growing grass, bamboo can be harvested every 3-5 years from the same plants.
This renewability makes bamboo an environmentally responsible flooring choice. Bamboo releases 35% more oxygen into the atmosphere while growing compared to trees. And since only the mature culms are harvested, the bamboo plants and root systems remain intact, allowing for rapid regrowth.
Strong and Durable Material
Bamboo is a very strong and durable flooring material, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. When properly manufactured, good quality bamboo flooring can be two to three times harder than traditional hardwoods like oak.
The denseness and hardness of bamboo resist dents, scratches, and wear from heavy foot traffic. And thanks to its tight grain patterns, bamboo does not easily absorb liquid spills compared to more porous woods. This durability and resilience allow bamboo floors to retain their beauty for many years.
Attractive Visual Appeal
With various modern manufacturing processes, bamboo floors can achieve highly attractive visual styles. The natural grain patterns of horizontal bamboo flooring have an understated elegance. Carbonized bamboo develops rich coffee and caramel hues from heat treatment. More exotic appearances like wide-plank flooring or smoked bamboo offer unique visual flair.
Bamboo floors also allow for extensive customization with stains and finishes. The absorbent nature of the material accepts stains readily, allowing the planks to be enriched with bold colors or whitewashed pastel tones. Various gloss levels and textures can further enhance the visual style.
This diversity of looks allows bamboo floors to fit modern, traditional, or exotic home decor themes. No matter your personal style, there is likely a bamboo flooring aesthetic to complement your space.
Resistance to Moisture and Contraction
Properly manufactured bamboo flooring provides good moisture resistance and dimensional stability. The dense compressed planks are less prone to swelling and shrinkage issues sometimes encountered with solid hardwood products.
Bamboo’s natural water-resistant properties also allow it to be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and other rooms prone to spills and moisture. Following manufacturer guidelines for climate acclimation and subfloor preparation is key for success when installing bamboo in humidity-prone areas.
Good Insulation Properties
Compared to stone, ceramic, or vinyl alternatives, bamboo is a warmer and more comfortable flooring material. The natural insulating properties of bamboo allow it to retain heat and provide a pleasant foot feel. This warmth contributes to bamboo floors having a more welcoming appearance as well.
Affordable Pricing
While varying by manufacturer and style, bamboo flooring is generally an affordable option compared to solid exotic hardwoods. Average bamboo flooring costs range from $3-8 per square foot installed. This is on par with domestic oak flooring but significantly less than imported tropical woods than can cost $10 per square foot or more.
When you factor in bamboo’s durability and renewability, it offers good value as a flooring investment. Less expensive engineered bamboo floors are also available for tighter budgets.
Easy Installation and Repairs
Most bamboo floor products are designed with easy tongue-and-groove or click-lock systems for do-it-yourself installation. Planks can be nailed or glued down over suitable wood or concrete subfloor materials. Many homeowners are able to install bamboo flooring successfully as a DIY project.
If any planks do become damaged over time, they can also be removed and replaced relatively easily. The modular flooring system allows repairs and replacements to be made seamlessly with no major refinishing required.
Potential Cons of Bamboo Flooring
While the benefits are considerable, there are some potential downsides of bamboo floors to be aware of:
Susceptible to Water Damage
Despite having natural water-resistant properties, prolonged exposure to excess moisture can still damage bamboo floors. The planks will cup and warp if flooded or consistently saturated. Homes with drainage issues or recurring leaks are not suited for bamboo flooring installation.
While bamboo can be installed in kitchens, baths, and laundry rooms when following best practices, it still carries higher risk in wet areas compared to more moisture-resistant options like tile, vinyl or linoleum.
Can Show Scratches More Readily
The pronounced grain patterns of horizontal and strand woven bamboo floors can make some scratches and dents stand out prominently. While bamboo is quite durable, pointed impacts or pet nails may damage the surface coating and leave visible marks. Lighter bamboo colors also tend to show wear more readily.
However, many homeowners find the natural patina that bamboo floors develop over time to be charming. Refinishing the floors is also an option if deeper scratches develop in high-traffic zones. Proper care and maintenance will help minimize the appearance of scuffs and surface marks.
Not as Dent-Resistant as Hardwoods
Although very hard, bamboo does not quite match the dent-resistance of the densest exotic hardwood species. Furniture legs, appliances, dropped objects, and stiletto heels have the potential to cause slight indentations in bamboo flooring over time.
Proper floor protectors, pads, and sensible footwear are recommended when walking on bamboo surfaces to minimize denting. But some minor surface dimples may be unavoidable, adding to the natural worn character that develops.
Can Emit Some VOCs
Adhesives used during bamboo plank production may release small amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the home initially after installation. Sensitive individuals may notice these emissions as mild odors for the first several weeks as the floors cure and off-gas.
Seeking out low-VOC bamboo flooring brands can minimize this concern. Increased ventilation and avoiding installation in poorly ventilated basements also keep VOC levels lower. The smells dissipate over time on their own.
Mixed Environmental Ratings
While the bamboo grass itself is highly renewable, some manufacturing methods have drawn environmental criticism. Certain chemical-heavy processes may use adhesives with urea-formaldehyde binders and release toxins into the atmosphere during production. Off-gassing continues for some time after installation as well in lower air quality.
Consumers should ask about the specific manufacturing methods used and look for greener bamboo flooring brands that use non-toxic processes. Reputable eco-friendly producers provide transparency and report emissions ratings. Purchasing flooring certified by organizations like FSC, GREENGUARD, or CARB can identify products meeting stricter standards.
Can Show Some Hollow Spots on Floor
Less expensive bamboo floors utilize an inner ply sub-layer underneath the surface veneer layer. If adhesive bonding is subpar, slight hollow spots may occur in areas where the layers did not adhere fully, causing a different noise when walked on. Higher quality engineered bamboo using thicker veneers minimizes this issue. Solid bamboo flooring avoids it altogether.
Can Be Susceptible to Sun Damage
Many hardwood floors need protection from excessive sunlight to avoid color changes and fading. Bamboo also falls into this category – direct hot sun beams over time can alter the appearance. Properly treated and UV-cured bamboo will resist fading, but curtains or window treatments are still smart in sun-drenched rooms. Rotating area rugs periodically evens out any color change.
What to Look for in Quality Bamboo Flooring
Picking a well-made bamboo floor product from a reputable manufacturer will maximize the benefits while avoiding the potential pitfalls of cheaper variants. Here are the key signs of quality and durability to look for:
- MSC or FSC Certification – Trustworthy eco-friendly forestry management practices.
- Horizontal Grain or Strand Woven – Most durable bamboo construction types.
- 5+ Year Warranties – Protection against early wear or delamination.
- 8-10+ mm Plank Thickness – Prevent hollow spots and impressions.
- Indoor Moisture Warranty – Confirm suitability for baths, kitchens, etc.
- Low-VOC Adhesives – Minimize off-gassing and odors.
- CARB 2 Compliance – Strictest formaldehyde emissions standards.
Seeking out products made by reputable brands that meet quality, environmental, and health standards provides assurance that your bamboo flooring purchase will perform well.
Costs and Installation Considerations
Bamboo flooring costs vary based on the quality tier, construction, and style choices:
- Good ($3-5/sq.ft installed) – Entry-level bamboo with thin veneers in limited colors.
- Better ($4-6/sq.ft installed) – Nicer grains, wider planks, more stain choices.
- Best ($7-9+/sq.ft installed) – Thicker solid planks, exotic styles, maximum durability.
Installation costs range from $3-5 per square foot depending on labor rates in your region. Most homeowners spend $5-15 per square foot for good-quality bamboo flooring installation overall.
While DIY installation is possible, professional fitting is often advisable for best results – especially if nailing over concrete subflooring. The joints of bamboo planks can be somewhat tighter and more precise than hardwoods. Hiring an experienced flooring installer guarantees proper layouts, expansions gaps, transitions, and fastening.
Bamboo Flooring Pros and Cons Comparison Chart
This helpful chart summarizes the main advantages and disadvantages of bamboo floors versus other popular flooring materials:
| Bamboo | Hardwood | Laminate | Vinyl | Tile
|-|-|-|-|-|
|Pros|||||
| Eco-Friendly | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Durable | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Attractive Appearance | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Affordable Pricing | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Easy Maintenance | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
|Cons|||||
| Susceptible to Moisture | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Can Show Scratches | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Not as Dent Resistant | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Can Emit VOCs | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
FAQs About Bamboo Flooring
Some of the most common questions that arise about bamboo floors include:
Does bamboo flooring increase home value?
Quality bamboo floors can increase resale value like other types of hardwood floors. The eco-friendly durability and visual appeal of bamboo are attractive selling points. But avoid cheap poor-quality bamboo, as it may detract value.
How long does bamboo flooring last?
With proper care and maintenance, top-quality bamboo floors can potentially last 50 years or more. Average lifespan is 25-30 years. Lower-end bamboo may need replacement after just 10 years.
Can you refinish bamboo floors?
Yes, bamboo can be lightly sanded and refinished 1-2 times by a professional to refresh the surface and remove deeper scratches. But the thin veneer layers limit how many times it can be refinished compared to solid wood.
Is bamboo flooring waterproof?
No – bamboo flooring can suffer water damage and warping if flooded or consistently soaked. But bamboo does have good moisture resistance for kitchens, baths, etc. when properly sealed and maintained.
Does bamboo flooring scratch easily?
High-quality bamboo is quite scratch-resistant. But the pronounced grain can make some scratches stand out more noticeably. Lighter finishes also show scuffs more. Keeping bamboo floors well-maintained helps minimize scratches.
Is bamboo flooring good for dogs?
Bamboo is a good option for homes with dogs thanks to its durability, scratch-resistance, and easy cleaning. But heavy,sharp dog nails may still cause some surface scratches over time. Using nail caps helps reduce marks.
Can you install bamboo flooring over concrete?
Yes, bamboo can be installed over concrete slabs in basements, garages, etc. using a floating floor installation method. The planks connect together over a foam underlayment without glue or nails. Moisture barriers are essential.
Is bamboo sustainable?
When responsibly harvested and manufactured, bamboo is one of the most renewable and sustainable flooring options. But some production methods have drawn environmental criticism, so check certifications and manufacturing practices for true eco-friendliness.
The Bottom Line on Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo floors offer a great combination of sustainability, hardness, aesthetics, and affordability. When sourced from quality manufacturers using eco-responsible practices, bamboo makes an excellent flooring choice for any style of home interior (modern, contemporary, traditional, etc.). Its natural patina develops character over time that many homeowners find highly attractive.
Just be aware that bamboo is best avoided in damp basements or homes with drainage issues. And expect to see some minor scratches and dents accumulate in high traffic zones over the years. But with proper care and maintenance, top-quality bamboo flooring will provide many years of beauty, value, and enjoyment.
Conclusion
Bamboo flooring provides a versatile, eco-friendly, and durable flooring option that suits many homeowners’ needs. While no flooring is perfect, bamboo’s favorable traits like sustainability, hardness, and visual diversity make it a wise choice in the right setting. Seek out quality bamboo floor brands using reputable manufacturing methods to maximize satisfaction and avoid potential downsides. With proper installation and care, you can enjoy the beauty of bamboo floors in your home for decades to come.