There are many reasons why bamboo is better for home renovations. Not only is it an eco-friendly material, but it actually performs better than other options. That’s why so many are choosing bamboo cabinets, flooring, and more to build their homes.
However, there are many other benefits of bamboo. Before choosing a wood option, it’s worth learning more about bamboo and considering it as a viable option that will add to your home’s value with ease.
Strength: Bamboo has been shown to be as strong as some forms of steel and in some cases has the strength of concrete. Amazingly, just one inch of bamboo easily supports up to 7 1/2 tons of weight. The compressive and tensile strength of a popular construction wood, Douglas Fir, paled in comparison to that of bamboo in recent studies. Bamboo is also harder than oak or maple in most cases.
Indoor Air – Indoor air quality can be greatly improved through the use of bamboo cabinets and flooring options. When treated minimally, they can easily resist mold and mildew in their natural state. Most cabinets are treated to make cleaning easier and that adds a layer of protection as well. Therefore, homeowners can breathe easy knowing they are ensuring quality indoor air.
Also, bamboo cabinets will not absorb moisture or swell. This gives them an advantage in moisture-prone areas like around a sink, near a refrigerator, or in a bathroom.
Termite Resistance – Termites are a scary notion for most homeowners. Tests have shown that termites absolutely refuse to eat bamboo, even in its natural state. That’s one advantage that most homeowners love, and it makes them choose bamboo cabinets over all others.
Unique: Bamboo cabinets are often mistaken for wood, but are easily recognizable to the trained eye by the linear grain. They are easily distinguished from wood and are becoming very popular in the home. This allows the home owner to be original or “first on the block” to have bamboo. Then they can brag about how green it is and how they are doing their part to save the planet.
Easy to maintain: Bamboo cabinets are quite easy to care for. One cannot go wrong with regular lubrication or sealing. This will ensure the lasting beauty of the bamboo. For regular cleaning, warm soapy water and a soft cloth will always suffice.
Stained Options – If a particular stained finish is desired, bamboo can be stained! Although it is grass and not wood, it holds the stain well and will have a beautiful finish. So if the homeowner wants a cherry finish for a bamboo cabinet, it can be achieved.
Just be careful if the staining isn’t done by someone experienced, as bamboo tends to stain unevenly and be hard to match. It’s smart to do a test spot just to be sure.
Elegant – Perhaps the most important advantage of choosing a bamboo cabinet or floor is that it is extremely elegant and has only gained popularity in the last 10 years. The desire for bamboo is expected to increase in the coming years; so now is the time to get it for less.
The most popular style for bamboo cabinets is the shaker, homeowners will achieve a modern look in the kitchen or bathroom. There are four different bamboo formations and each one gives it a different look. They are vertical grain, horizontal grain, end grain and strand weave. This gives the buyer a few options to consider and often ends up preferring one over the other.
Regardless of the type chosen, bamboo cabinets or flooring are sure to stand the test of time and provide many years of enjoyment.