In terms of hardness and durability, bamboo flooring is solid as a rock, or at least as solid as maple and even more so than oak. The durability of this stalky grass can’t be understated.
Bamboo is not a true hardwood, but is actually a beautiful grassy stalk plant. The stalks are hollow and once processed for use, extremely durable for use as flooring.
Bamboo solid flooring is not in itself a true statement because bamboo flooring is only available in manufactured planks or laminated planks for installation. However, that shouldn’t detract homeowners from considering this magnificent wood for their next home remodeling venture.
In today’s world where everyone’s concern is the environment and maintaining its resources, bamboo is one of the best choices that could be made for flooring.
Not only does bamboo grow to astounding heights, fifty feet or more, it does so in as little as five years. This is unheard of when thinking of hardwood trees that are the typical flooring choices, such as Oak, Maple or Cedar.
Hardwood flooring made from these woods is partially responsible for deforestation that is becoming rampant worldwide. Destroying the forests for its wood is displacing animals and is partially responsible for global warming. Bamboo has none of these effects.
The durability of bamboo can be seen in its resistance to denting. In tests, it holds up as well as Maple and better than Oak. Adding a top coat will help to prevent scratching and make the flooring even more durable.
This durability is an excellent reason for choosing bamboo for practically any room. The only rooms that should not have bamboo floors are those with that have exposure to a lot of moisture, like bathrooms or steam rooms.
Even though bamboo is a water resistant material, over a period of time the moisture can cause the boards to warp and possibly void any warranty that the floor might have.
Coloring
Not only is bamboo solid as a rock, it’s as pretty as a gem. Natural bamboo with only a clear coating is a thing of beauty without any help from paints and stains.
However, if coloring is desired, the flooring can be purchased with stain to match whatever color the owner desires.
Another option for coloring a bamboo floor is to purchase bamboo that has been carbonized. This process changes the natural lightness of the floor to a darker color.
In contrast to stains, this colorization goes all the way through the wood rather than just on the top. The downside to carbonizing bamboo is that it does lower its hardness factor somewhat.
All in all, bamboo flooring is a solid choice that homeowners will be happy to show their friends and neighbors. It also adds value to the home in the event it is ever sold. Mother nature will be appreciative as well.
