Bamboo Floors and Polished Concrete

When it comes to indoor flooring, two options that are not often considered include polished concrete and bamboo. Both are affordable, durable and incredibly stylish. Here are some things you probably didn’t already know about this impressive flooring options.

Polished Concrete Flooring

Available in a wide range of styles and colors, you can accomplish any artistic effect with concrete. Polished concrete is made with a special process that creates an incredible shine on the floor. The Epoxy Coatings make it is as reflective as highly polished ceramic without any of the concerns about cracking or chipping.

Polished concrete is energy efficient because it has a natural insulating quality. It can be crafted to look like other materials, such as wood or marble. Light coming into the home will warm it in the wintertime and the moisture from the ground helps it stay cooler. 

Another benefit of concrete is that you can get truly artistic with it. Because it can mimic any material and be tinted to any shade, you can let your creative side go wild. Whether you want a traditional look or a contemporary one, concrete can match the look. You can even inset other materials into the concrete, like shells or stones. Incorporate personal touches like horseshoes, jewelry or other treasured mementos for a flooring that will be incredibly unique and special to you.
Polished Concrete Floors must be installed by professionals, so there is some extra expense. However, it represents one of the few flooring options that will last for as long as the rest of your home.

Bamboo Floors

An incredibly fast growing reed, bamboo is taking the market by storm for its environmentally friendly qualities. Available in shades ranging from nearly white to deeper tones of tan, this wood features darker bands that give it a distinguished look.

Incredible strong, it rates higher on the Janka hardness scale than either maple or red oak. Resilient and durable, it’s the ideal choice for high traffic areas and homes with children. A laminated product, it is not inclined to warp, curl, gap or cup. Grown in tropical environments, it has a natural resistance to moisture than make it a good choice for kitchens and even bathrooms.

The installation of a bamboo floor is simple and can be done by most home owners. The method will depend on the product, but it is typically nailed, glued or stapled down. Options for bamboo floating floors are also available and represent one of the simplest installation methods.

Similarities

Either flooring option is extremely durable and will withstand the demands of a busy family. They both feature an incredible shine and a look that is a little different from the ordinary.

Differences

You can get more creative with polished concrete flooring than with bamboo floors. However, concrete is not as warm as the natural wood of bamboo, even if it does provide more flexibility of pattern. While bamboo can be installed by the homeowner, polished concrete work requires a certain skill set that only the professionals will have. 

The choice is a personal one. Both are hot choices that will add beauty and interest to your home. Knowing what the benefits are of each, as well as the differences and similarities, can help you make the right decision for your home and family.