Just the word bamboo has an exotic sound to it, but bamboo flooring is becoming a very popular choice.. This is one of the products that is favored by those who seek “green materials” that are environmentally friendly and easily replenished. Just as shearing a sheep for it’s wool does not kill the sheep, harvesting bamboo does not kill the plant and it will replenish in time.
Bamboo flooring can be a good choice for those who love the look of wood. Manufacturers today have perfected methods of processing bamboo to give it the same appearance and appeal as laminate flooring.
These new processes make bamboo stronger than many of the natural hardwoods in the same thickness. It is manufactures in similar sizes as most laminate flooring material, which makes it a favored choice for do-it-yourself homeowners as well as professional installers.
The installation difference between most laminate flooring and bamboo is that laminate flooring usually snaps together without the use of glue or nails. Bamboo is installed on top of a solid sub floor and it is held in place by either glue or nailing. Purchasing a medium grade is recommended as it will hold up to humidity much better.
New processing methods using glue and high pressure as well as impregnating the material with water resistant materials make bamboo flooring stronger than most laminate materials and a fair amount of the most used hardwoods. Although most bamboo flooring is water resistant, care should be taken to wipe up spills and not allow them to remain on the flooring.
Bamboo flooring cleaning and care
Bamboo flooring is a good alternative to traditional wood floors, and if cared for properly will last an average of 20 to 25 years. Once installed, the floor should be cleaned with a damp mop to remove and dust or grit.
Regular dust mopping or using a soft bristle broom is recommended to keep your new floor free of grit and dust, and damp mopping as needed. As with all hard flooring, throw rugs at points of entry can help to minimize clean up and keep excess dirt off your new floor.
