Elegant and versatile, bamboo flooring is increasingly finding its place in homes. Often installed in living rooms and bedrooms, this natural material comes from the bamboo plant, which grows abundantly in certain regions of Asia and South America.
It is very relevant to ask whether bamboo flooring is appropriate for bathrooms. Is it able to withstand potentially harmful elements such as heat and humidity, to which bathroom materials are constantly exposed?
So, is bamboo a good alternative to traditional ceramic floors? Let’s examine the advantages and disadvantages of this material.
The advantages of bamboo for bathrooms
The first question to ask when choosing flooring for the bathroom is whether the material is resistant to moisture. Indeed, bamboo does meet this condition (with some exceptions, see below). It also offers a good level of resistance against fire and insects, two scourges that we hope to never have to face.
Underfoot, bamboo floors are known to offer a good level of comfort, which can be pleasant in the early morning, unlike ceramic tiles which are sometimes very cold.
Regarding cost and maintenance, there are only positives. Bamboo floors are easy to maintain and offer good value for money.
Manufacturers offer models in several shades and patterns. It is thus possible to find a flooring that will harmonize well with all atmospheres and all types of decor. The finish of bamboo floors is reminiscent of wood, which can add a very warm natural element to the bathroom.
Contrary to what many people think, bamboo does not come from a tree. Its plant belongs to the grass family. Yet bamboo is stronger than several wood species, such as maple.
Finally, a last consideration may appeal to people who care about the future of the planet. It’s worth noting that more and more often, the ecological question is a concern on people’s list of criteria during the shopping stage for bathroom renovation materials. It is also one of the first characteristics to be named when it comes to bamboo. A natural and renewable product, bamboo only takes a few years to reach maturity.
Once transformed into a construction material, bamboo is stable, rigid and durable. If it displays FSC certification, we can be sure that it comes from safe sources and that its manufacture did not involve chemical products such as formaldehyde. For a bathroom floor, it is therefore an eco-responsible choice.
The drawbacks of bamboo
As indicated earlier, we need to qualify the claim that bamboo resists moisture well. First, in the market, there are different quality grades of bamboo. Low-end products are not as strong when exposed to water. It is therefore sometimes possible for the flooring to warp following prolonged exposure to this element, especially in a poorly ventilated bathroom.
Moreover, some types of bamboo flooring are better suited for bathrooms than others. Ideally, you should opt for solid bamboo flooring. Note also that floating bamboo floors are not recommended for this room.
In the end, is bamboo a good option for the bathroom? It seems so, although the choice is up to each individual and the characteristics that represent advantages for one will be perceived as disadvantages for another.
