Eco-Friendly Bamboo Countertops
More and more people are becoming aware of the need to use eco-friendly products. This trend has gained acceptance in the construction industry including home building. Previously, we have only seen bamboo furniture, bamboo walls, and bamboo kitchen utensils. But now bamboo countertops are more popular with those who want eco-friendly homes. When looking at kitchen countertop options, there are many advocates for using bamboo and there are also some who are not fully sold to the idea. Here are some of the pros and cons on this subject. This will help you if you are thinking of using bamboo for your countertop.
I. Advantages
a) Eco-friendly – Bamboo grows very rapidly – up to 2 feet a day. Some trees can reach up to 60 feet tall. This makes bamboo an ideal renewable resource, as it can be replaced so quickly.
b) Elegant and affordable – The natural beauty of bamboo will give your countertop a natural appeal and warmth that is very unique. Yet it is very affordable compared to granite and other hard stones. A square foot of a bamboo countertop will only cost about $30 to $40.
c) Durable – in the process of making bamboo countertops, the hardness of the end-product is sometimes comparable to some hardwood. It is for this reason that they tend to be durable and long-lasting. The basic processing involves gluing together planks of bamboo and then laminating them for added protection. There are basically two types used in making countertops – the plank type and the end-grain type.
d) Easy cleaning and maintenance – by using warm water and mild soap, you can easily clean the dirt and grime off the bamboo surface. You can also use warm water and a quart of vinegar by putting them together in a small sprayer and spraying them on the bamboo surface. Wipe off the dirt and grime with a soft cloth. This is a great way to keep your bamboo countertop looking shiny and new.
II. Disadvantages
a) Scratches – careless treatment of the bamboo surface will result in scratches since bamboo is basically the same type of material as wood.
b) Water Damage – likewise, water can also penetrate bamboo’s surface if water is left unattended on its surface for a long time.
c) Burns – if you put hot pots and pans directly on the bamboo surface and leave them there for long periods, it will eventually burn the bamboo surface.
Although there are some disadvantages to using bamboo countertops, they can be addressed by proper care and maintenance. Regular re-sealing or laminating of the bamboo surface will restore the fresh, natural look of bamboo. Careful use of the countertop surface will prevent scratches and burning of the surface.