Bamboo flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners who want a natural, eco-friendly, and durable flooring option. However, bamboo flooring also has some drawbacks that you should be aware of before installing it in your home. Some of the weakness of bamboo flooring are:
It is susceptible to water damage and humidity
It can fade or darken over time due to exposure to sunlight
It can scratch or dent easily if not properly maintained
It can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may affect indoor air quality
It can vary in quality and consistency depending on the manufacturer and the type of bamboo used
In this article, we will explain each of these weakness of bamboo flooring in more detail and provide some tips on how to avoid or minimize them.
Bamboo flooring is made from bamboo stalks that are cut, sliced, and glued together to form planks. Bamboo is a type of grass that grows very fast and can regenerate quickly. This makes it a renewable and sustainable resource that can reduce the environmental impact of flooring production.
However, bamboo is also a hygroscopic material, which means that it absorbs and releases moisture depending on the surrounding conditions. This can cause bamboo flooring to expand and contract, warp, buckle, or crack when exposed to water or high humidity levels. Bamboo flooring is not recommended for areas that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, basements, or laundry rooms.
To prevent water damage and humidity issues, you should:
Choose a high-quality bamboo flooring that has a low moisture content and a strong finish
Install a vapor barrier under the bamboo flooring to prevent moisture from seeping through the subfloor
Leave a gap of at least 1/4 inch between the bamboo flooring and the walls to allow for expansion and contraction
Avoid using wet mops, steam cleaners, or excessive water to clean the bamboo flooring
Wipe up any spills or leaks as soon as possible
Use a dehumidifier or an air conditioner to control the humidity level in your home
Bamboo flooring has a natural color that ranges from light tan to dark brown, depending on the type and processing of the bamboo. Some bamboo flooring is also stained or carbonized to achieve different shades and patterns. However, bamboo flooring can fade or darken over time due to exposure to sunlight. This can cause uneven coloration and reduce the aesthetic appeal of the bamboo flooring.
To prevent sunlight exposure issues, you should:
Choose a bamboo flooring that has a UV-resistant finish that can protect the color from fading
Install window treatments, such as curtains, blinds, or shades, to block or filter the sunlight
Rotate or rearrange your furniture and rugs periodically to avoid creating noticeable color differences on the bamboo flooring
Scratches and dents
Bamboo flooring is often touted as a hard and durable flooring option that can withstand wear and tear. However, bamboo flooring can also scratch or dent easily if not properly maintained. Bamboo flooring can be damaged by sharp objects, such as heels, nails, or pet claws, or by heavy furniture, appliances, or traffic. Scratches and dents can mar the surface of the bamboo flooring and make it look dull and worn.
To prevent scratches and dents, you should:
Choose a bamboo flooring that has a high hardness rating and a thick wear layer
Apply a protective coating or a wax on the bamboo flooring to enhance its resistance to scratches and dents
Use felt pads, furniture coasters, or rugs to protect the bamboo flooring from furniture or appliance legs
Trim your pet’s nails regularly and keep them off the bamboo flooring
Sweep or vacuum the bamboo flooring regularly to remove dirt and debris that can cause abrasion
Avoid dragging or dropping heavy objects on the bamboo flooring
Bamboo flooring is often considered as a green and healthy flooring option that can improve the indoor air quality. However, bamboo flooring can also emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may affect the indoor air quality and pose health risks. VOCs are chemicals that can evaporate at room temperature and cause odors, irritation, headaches, nausea, or respiratory problems. Bamboo flooring can emit VOCs from the adhesives, finishes, or stains that are used during the manufacturing or installation process.
To prevent VOCs emission issues, you should:
Choose a bamboo flooring that has a low or no VOCs content and is certified by a reputable organization, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the FloorScore program
Install the bamboo flooring in a well-ventilated area and allow it to acclimate for at least 72 hours before use
Use low or no VOCs adhesives, finishes, or stains when installing or refinishing the bamboo flooring
Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners or solvents that can release VOCs on the bamboo flooring
Quality and consistency
Bamboo flooring is a versatile and attractive flooring option that can suit different styles and preferences. However, bamboo flooring can also vary in quality and consistency depending on the manufacturer and the type of bamboo used. Bamboo flooring can differ in terms of the density, hardness, stability, color, grain, and finish of the bamboo planks. Some bamboo flooring may also contain defects, such as cracks, splits, knots, or gaps, that can affect the performance and appearance of the bamboo flooring.
To prevent quality and consistency issues, you should:
Choose a reputable and reliable bamboo flooring manufacturer that has a good reputation and a long warranty
Check the specifications and ratings of the bamboo flooring, such as the moisture content, the hardness, the stability, the color, and the finish
Inspect the bamboo flooring before installation and reject any planks that have visible defects or inconsistencies
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines for the installation and maintenance of the bamboo flooring
Bamboo flooring is a beautiful and eco-friendly flooring option that can enhance the look and feel of your home. However, bamboo flooring also has some weakness that you should be aware of before installing it in your home. By understanding the weakness of bamboo flooring and how to avoid or minimize them, you can enjoy the benefits of bamboo flooring for a long time.
