Deciding which flooring option is most advantageous for use in your home requires careful review and consideration of the options. Hardwood floors have undeniable appeal, but they also have notable downsides. Bamboo flooring is a smart alternative to hardwood because it provides many of the same benefits without some of the drawbacks. You may be wondering how bamboo compares to laminate flooring. With a closer look at bamboo flooring vs laminate options, you can pick out a beautiful material that will work well in your home.
Style Options for Bamboo Flooring vs Laminate
When you look at the bamboo laminate flooring similarities and differences, the style options may capture your attention immediately. Bamboo is a natural material that has an appealing, decadent look. Its unique striations add a dramatic flair that is not present in all types of hardwood options. Numerous natural stain colors are available for bamboo, and the material can also be stained in more unique colors for individualized style in the home. Laminate is a synthetic material, so it can be made to mimic any type of wood material desired. It also can take on the look of natural stone, tile and other materials.
Durability of Bamboo Flooring vs Laminate
In your comparison of bamboo flooring vs laminate, you understandably need to know how well these materials may hold up in different areas of the home. Moisture resistance is strong for both of these materials. As long as water does not stand on bamboo for a lengthy period of time, water damage does not typically occur. Bamboo also holds up well in areas with high humidity compared to hardwood materials. In comparison, laminate floors are suitable for use in high-humidity areas and will not warp if they are exposed to water. However, like bamboo, standing water on laminate should be avoided. Laminate floor is resistant to damage from excessive wear and tear, but it will eventually wear down over time. Bamboo is impacted by wear and tear, scratches and other issues in the same way as hardwood is affected.
Differences in Installation Methods
Bamboo floors can be installed using your choice of three installation methods. These are nail-down, glue-down and floating floor installation methods. Keep in mind that the specific type of bamboo flooring and the sub-floor material will dictate which method is most practical. Laminate flooring is only installed using a floating floor installation method. The cost of the material as well as labor costs will impact the total financial outlay. The installation costs will vary by method.
The Environmental Impact of These Flooring Options
Many homeowners are drawn to bamboo flooring because it is well-known as an eco friendly option. This is because bamboo grows quickly, and it may not lead to deforestation in the same way that hardwood floors may. However, some bamboo may be harvested in a farm area that was previously covered by hardwood trees, and the eco-friendliness of the bamboo floor manufacturing process can vary. If you choose bamboo flooring because of its environmental benefits, carefully research the harvesting and manufacturing processes of different products. Laminate flooring is synthetic, so its manufacturing process can leave a larger footprint in many cases. Keep in mind that bamboo floors can be refinished, and they may last for more than 30 years in some cases. Laminate floors may need to be replaced within 10 to 25 years.
Differences in Cleaning and Maintenance Needs
Once bamboo is installed in your home, you will need to follow special cleaning instructions. Bamboo can be scratched as easily as hardwood materials can, so you should sweep it regularly to remove abrasive materials. Once the floor is free of debris, it should be buffed with a dry mop. Periodically, wood fillers and polishing pads may be used to remove scratches and other types of minor damage. In comparison, laminate can be swept regularly, and it can be mopped with any product that has been designed for use on laminate floors. Generally, no additional effort is required to care for it.
Before deciding on a specific type of flooring material, analyze your home environment as well as your budget. When you compare these factors against the pros and cons of bamboo flooring vs laminate materials, you may easily narrow down your options and simplify your shopping experience. Keep in mind that there are numerous colors and styles available for both of these materials, so you will not feel limited by the possibilities regardless of which flooring type you prefer to use in your home.
