Originally published on ashevillekitchentops.com

A highly sustainable countertop material

Bamboo is a beautiful, natural and sustainable alternative to traditional butcher block countertops. The warm look and feel of bamboo will add a unique and interesting element to your kitchen or bath. Bamboo offers an ecologically sensitive alternative to traditionally harvested timber.

Bamboo is actually a grass, not a wood, that grows to harvest maturity in about 5 – 7 years. It is self-replenishing and does not require any special fertilizers, making it one of the most renewable and sustainable construction resources around. The species we use for countertops, Moso, is not a food source or habitat for the Giant Panda.

Bamboo is harder and denser than most hardwoods, about 16% harder than maple. Our countertops are constructed with cross-band laminates, using a completely non-toxic, food grade, and formaldehyde free adhesive. Countertops come in two colors. Natural is the light color that is the normal color of the plant. Carmel is a dark, rich color that is acheived by heating the bamboo until it ‘browns’ the sugar compounds within the plant. The parquet end grain tops are 1 1/2″ thick, and edge profiles can be routed to suit any individual style. We have several finishes available, depending on the intended use and preference of the homeowner.

In addition to making beautiful, durable countertops, bamboo is also healthy for the earth. Bamboo releases about 35% more oxygen into the atmosphere than traditional hardwoods. It absorbs carbon from the environment, and as a rapidly renewable resource it can be harvested without worry that it will run out. Bamboo countertops may be the perfect choice if you like the look and feel of wood but prefer a more sustainable alternative.