Read on to learn more about cork vs. bamboo flooring.

What Is Bamboo Flooring?

A very rapidly renewable resource, bamboo grows much faster thanhardwoodtrees and can be harvested after about five years.

Bamboo vs cork flooring

Margot Cavin / The Spruce

You may choose between a horizontal or vertical grain, depending on your aesthetic preferences.

Bamboo flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners because it is durable, sustainable, and attractive.

Bamboo is also very hard, making it suitable for use in high-traffic areas like kitchens and hallways.

Bamboo floor detail

Margot Cavin / The Spruce

Bamboo’s hardness makes it a good choice for homes with pets.

Bamboo flooring is widely availableand comes pre-finished in a variety of styles and colors.

Bamboo flooring is installed by gluing or nailing it to a subfloor.

Cork floor detail

Margot Cavin / The Spruce

Despite all the praise forbamboo, not all planks are created equal and the material has itspros and cons.

Many manufacturers harvest the stalks before they are fully mature, resulting in a weaker product.

Bamboo Flooring Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

What Is Cork Flooring?

Cork is not just for plugging bottles; it also makes forattractive flooring material.

The planks or tiles are finished with a protective top layer.

Cork flooring is known for its durability, versatility, and sustainability.

Cork is naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and insects.

If you prefer a material similar to traditional wood flooring, bamboo might be right for you.

If comfort is your priority, nothing beats cork.

Both bamboo and cork are praise-worthy flooring choices for many reasons beyond their eco-friendly attributes.

The biggest downside of cork flooring is its durability.

It can be easily scratched and marred by pets and heavy furniture.

Cork and bamboo flooring have similar price points so neither is cheaper than the other.