Bamboo is especially noted for its strength, hardness and rate of growth, it has a rapid regeneration and it can harvested without killing the plant.
Moso is the most widely cultivated bamboo species in China and some bamboo forests have been farmed for generations. As the bamboo grows, it photosynthesizes and takes in carbon dioxide and emits oxygen.
Bamboo flooring comes in several varieties, it can be solid or engineered. Bamboo is not made up of solid planks of bamboo as the name implies, but rather strips made up of distinct layers of bamboo. Engineered flooring is made of a bamboo top layer glued to one of the variety of materials.
The surface bamboo can be oriented either vertically or horizontally. Horizontal-grain, or flat-grain flooring is the more traditional look and features bamboo’s characteristic nodes, or “knuckles.” The vertical-grain or edge-grain flooring has the bamboo strips lined up on edge resulting in a more uniform look and reducing the knuckle appearance.
Bamboo flooring is commonly produced and sold in two colours, a light blond which is bamboo’s natural colour and a darker colour often described as “carbonized.” Bamboo flooring can also be stained.
Bamboo flooring comes in tongue-and-groove or tap and go.
Below are some of the benefits of Bamboo Flooring:
Overall Beauty
Bamboo is actually a grass and not a wood product. – Because of this difference, bamboo has a different look to that of hardwood floors. Colour can be determined by the manufacturing process and the bamboo can be made in a uniform colour which is easy to match.
Durability – Bamboo is durable. It has a hardness (strength) rating which is often higher than many hardwoods. In addition to its hardness rating, bamboo is also resilient. This means it “bounces back” after most impacts and doesn’t dent. This resiliency is also better for your feet and back since the floor will tend to “give” slightly and not be so hard to walk on everyday.
Moisture Resistance – Bamboo is a naturally water resistant material. In addition to is natural resistance, part of the manufacturing process includes lamination which increases its resistance to warping.
Environmental Benefit – Bamboo is a sustainable material, it can easily and quickly be re=grown in a reasonably short time. It is typically harvested every four to five years without the actual plant being destroyed. Also, because of its resiliency, bamboo does not have to be refinished as often as hardwood. This cuts down on the chemicals necessary to maintain the floor.
Cleaning – Bamboo floors, like most hard flooring materials, are easier to clean than carpets. No vacuum required, a broom, dry mop. Excessive water must be avoided, only a slightly dampened mop and no abrasive cleaners or scouring pads like steel wool should be used. It is recommended that furniture have soft pads placed under chair legs, beds, tables etc.,
