How Bamboo Flooring Can Complement Both Traditional and Modern Home Designs

 Bamboo Flooring is an environmentally friendly, exotic hardwood alternative that has gained popularity in recent years. The growth of this flooring option has been spurred on by advancements in the manufacturing process that make it more affordable and durable. As a result, consumers are finding that it is an excellent choice for many different rooms in their homes. Before deciding on this unique flooring option, it is important to understand all of the pros and cons, myths, and truths of this popular type of floor.

 A highly versatile natural product 

While it is technically a grass, bamboo is a highly versatile natural product that can be used for a variety of applications. Whether used as a flooring material, furniture, or cabinetry, the versatility of bamboo is evident in its design characteristics. The most common use of bamboo for home application is as a replacement for traditional wood flooring. Bamboo is also an eco-friendly choice as it is a fast-growing renewable resource. When harvested, it takes only 5-6 years for the bamboo stalks to mature, which is about one-tenth of the time that it takes a red oak tree to mature. It is also easy to keep bamboo healthy and thriving since it is a naturally water-resistant plant.

 Solid, engineered, and strand woven

There are three primary types of bamboo flooring: solid, engineered, and strand woven. Solid bamboo is made by laminating strips of the bamboo cane together. This method maximizes the use of the bamboo cane, which accentuates its distinctive look. It is available in either a horizontal or vertical grain pattern. Engineered bamboo is made with a bamboo veneer bonded to a cross-grained plywood or MDF core for strength and stability. This is the most durable type of bamboo. It is available in a horizontal or vertical grain pattern and can be stained or carbonized for color.

 Suitable for modern styled rooms

Strand woven bamboo is manufactured from shredded bamboo fibers that are mixed with resins and pressed into rock-hard planks. The strands are interlocked, which makes this the hardest (and most expensive) type of bamboo flooring. It is available in a vertical or horizontal grain pattern and is suitable for modern styled rooms.

All three styles of Bamboo Flooring have the potential to scratch and dent, so it is important to consider the environment in which you are installing it. For example, bamboo can swell in wet environments and shrink in dry ones, which could cause the planks to crack or split. It is also a good idea to avoid dragging or sliding heavy furniture over the bamboo, as this can cause unsightly scratches. Felt protector pads on the bottom of furniture will help prevent this type of damage.

Conclusion

Bamboo is very strong, but it can still be damaged if exposed to harsh chemicals or spills that are not cleaned up immediately. Additionally, spilled food and drinks can stain a bamboo floor. A clear finish protects the surface and helps resist stains. Sweeping or vacuuming regularly, and occasionally wiping with a damp cloth, will keep a bamboo floor in pristine condition.