Bamboo Countertops Pros and Cons: A Comprehensive Guide


By Artem Kropovinsky, Interior Designer and Founder of Arsight |
December 29, 2023

The trend of interior décor is rising across the world, with more people inclined towards spending excessively on creating beautiful spaces. Fashion and trends change now and then, is it sensible to spend lavishly every time? It will be a waste of money and resources and a cost to the environment. 

Designers are eagerly experimenting with bamboo to create beautiful interiors. They love its aesthetics, price competitiveness, and eco-friendliness. Before installing bamboo counters in your home or commercial spaces, you must have a detailed insight into the material's properties.

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An Insight into Bamboo Countertops

Bamboo countertops are the best substitute for wooden or laminate surfaces as they promise distinctness, high durability, and environmental friendliness. 

Bamboo blocks are fabricated by joining bamboo sticks with non-toxic chemical bonding agents.  Bamboo counters require painting to give it a color and comprise formaldehyde - a life-threatening chemical.

What is the Cost of Bamboo Countertops?

The cost of bamboo countertops is influenced by many factors such as the color, finishing, and grain specifics. If you have a small budget, then you can opt for the most affordable variety that may cost around 1500 to 2000 USD for a 50 sq. feet area. However, if you are looking for better quality bamboo counters then it may cost you between 2000 to 3000 USD to cover a 50 sq. feet space. The most premium variety may require a budget of 10,000 USD for a 50 sq. feet area. This includes material and installation costs and is quite affordable.

What are the Bamboo Countertops Pros and Cons?

While bamboo is one of the best options for chic interior spaces, you must be knowledgeable about bamboo countertops' pros and cons. It will help you decide whether it best fits your requirements or not.

Bamboo Countertops Pros

Cost-Effective

Bamboo is a highly affordable alternative to other natural stones used for countertops. It is also more cost-effective and reliable than wood, and concrete counters. As bamboo is a natural material and is prepared through a simple manufacturing process, it is not highly expensive. You can even find incredible seasonal discounts on home improvement stores and revamp your countertops with a small budget.

Easy Cleaning

Kitchen counters are roughly used for cooking and food preparation purposes and have to withstand heat, pressure, spills, moisture, and much more. Bamboo is a natural and porous material that can easily stain. However, it is durable and requires simple cleaning and less maintenance. You can use a diluted vinegar solution or a good-quality cleaning solution with a soft washcloth to wipe clean the bamboo surface.

Incredible Anti-Bacterial Properties

Whether it is residential or commercial, every kitchen must be hygienic for health safety. Bamboo, a natural material does not support bacterial growth, and regularly disinfecting the surface will enhance its anti-bacterial properties.

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Highly Durable

Bamboo counters match other expensive materials in terms of durability. So, what can be better at this price and aesthetic beauty? One thing you need to be mindful of is that bamboo counters require regular sealing to create a non-porous surface. Laminating the counters will add to their durability and make them last a lifetime.

Eco-Friendly

Bamboo, one of the fastest growing materials requires limited resources. Its renewable properties make it an eco-friendly option for interior design projects. Though bamboo blocks are chemically treated to ensure better quality, still the dangerous elements have a mild impact. However, health-conscious people may choose less-treated bamboo blocks to create the most amazing interior spaces. You may choose a premium-quality mineral oil to enhance the bamboo counter's durability. Kindly note that ordinary and poor-quality mineral oil can be toxic and health-hazardous.

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Prettiness

Bamboo counters are one of the most appealing options featuring fancy layering of natural material. It's best for people who love woody interiors and require quality in the most competitive price range.

High Strength

Bamboo counters promise high strength and durability, making it every homeowner’s top choice. You may find some bamboo varieties that are even stronger than maple and oak wood for counters. Every countertop may develop scratches or stains with time. However, bamboo counters can be preserved through regular sanding and proper cleaning.

Bamboo Countertops Cons

Get Easily Stained

Bamboo features a porous surface that allows water, liquid, and spills to seep easily. It may cause stains that may require proper cleaning. For this, you may hire a professional through Arsight for surface sealing. They promise quality services and the best prices. You may also note that any cracks in the sealant may cause further damage when they come in contact with moisture in the surroundings. So, you will have to invest periodically in surface resealing.

Visible Seams

Though, visible seams of bamboo counters are aesthetically appealing, but some people like seamless surfaces. For that, they may consider other available options for counters.

Requires a Maintenance Budget

Bamboo counters require regular maintenance to maintain their proper functionality. It is a porous material, and it is important to maintain its proper sealing to prevent damage. You may opt for wood-specific sealants, or consult a professional.

Sensitive to Temperature

If you plan to install bamboo counters in your kitchen, then you may have to be careful when placing hot pans and objects. Bamboo is sensitive to temperature and may be damaged. You may use a coaster, heat pad, or protector when cooking.

Limited Design Options

Bamboo is available in fewer colors and designs, which may limit your interior design options. You may experiment with colors by using a resin coating. However, a majority of the designers and homeowners love bamboo for its natural aesthetics.

Easy Scratching

Some people use bamboo counters very casually. They may use it for chopping, dough rolling, and other cooking purposes. It may cause scratches and permanently damage the surface. You must not use knives and harsh chemicals on bamboo surfaces. If your bamboo counter gets scratched, you must immediately sand it, and coat it with a mineral oil.

Takeaway

Bamboo counters are distinct in appearance and promise quality and durability. While its pros outweigh its cons, it is highly recommended by interior designers worldwide.

Artem Kropovinsky is an author, interior designer and the founder of Arsight, a globally award-winning design firm based in New York. With over decade of experience, Arsight specializes in complex projects, including new constructions, complete residential renovations, restaurants, and retail stores.