The strand woven bamboo is cut into strips and bound together with strong adhesives. There are three basic types of bamboo flooring: natural, stained, and carbonized. Horizontal bamboo flooring displays nodes, while vertical bamboo flooring is thinner and is less likely to display dents or dings. This environmentally friendly flooring is fast becoming a popular choice for homes and offices. Here are a few of the benefits of bamboo flooring. If you’re considering a bamboo floor for your home, be sure to research its benefits.
Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource. It grows and matures in just five to six years, or one-tenth of the time it takes red oak to mature. Because it’s so cheap to grow, bamboo can be harvested more often than many exotic hardwoods, lowering the cost of bamboo flooring. Bamboo is also incredibly durable, lasting decades if properly cared for. But it should be noted that even with factory finish, it can scratch and dent easily, so be sure to protect it with protective pads and doormats inside.
Carbonized bamboo floors are generally softer than natural bamboo. These floors can be scratched by heavy furniture, and they can warp in damp rooms. Because of their lighter color, carbonized bamboo flooring is not suitable for bathrooms. However, carbonized bamboo can be refinished – a major advantage compared to natural bamboo. But the downside of carbonized bamboo is the cost of carbonizing. While carbonized bamboo is relatively inexpensive, it can be very difficult to maintain and may not be the best choice for the bathroom.
Carbonized bamboo is not as durable as carbonized hardwood, but the carbonization process decreases the strength and makes the floor softer. This is not recommended for homes that are overly vintage, as the carbonizing process can make it softer and less attractive. In addition, bamboo flooring is more eco-friendly than hardwood. A hardwood floor may not be suitable for a vintage home, but carbonized bamboo has a unique, modern look. So if you are looking for something different, bamboo flooring might be the best option for you.
However, because bamboo is a grass, the grain of the wood will weaken if exposed to water or humidity. You’ll need to choose your bamboo carefully. Choose a floor cleaner that contains no chemicals that can strip off the colour of the flooring’s coating. And if you’re looking for easy maintenance, you can opt for factory-finished bamboo. A mild cleaning solution, like a non-wax, non-alkaline floor cleanser, should be enough.
Choose a reputable retailer if you’d like to buy your bamboo flooring locally. Local retailers have the advantage of knowing the source of their products, which is crucial for avoiding VOCs and formaldehyde. Also, make sure the dealer you buy from carries the Forest Stewardship Council certification. The FSC certificate is a great way to ensure that you’re buying ethically produced bamboo flooring that is eco-friendly.