Frequently Asked Questions about Bamboo Flooring

Frequently Asked Questions about Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo flooring is a relatively new concept for homeowners worldwide. Many homeowners still feel uncertain in selecting it for their homes. They have many doubts and questions which keep them from considering bamboo floor installation.

To clear those doubts, here are the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about bamboo flooring.

• Where can I install bamboo flooring in my home?

Ans. Bamboo is a versatile flooring material that can be installed in any room with a flat and smooth surface. The exceptions are rooms that have high moisture or require wet moppings such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. Bamboo flooring is sensitive to moisture and can warp or swell if installed in wet locations. It can also be installed in almost all subfloors including cement, wood and existing vinyl flooring.

• What’s the difference between vertical and horizontal bamboo flooring?

Ans. The difference between horizontal and vertical bamboo flooring is how bamboo strips are laminated together. In a vertical style, strips of bamboo are laid in a vertical manner by turning them on their sides to create a slender and more textured look. In a horizontal style, bamboo strips are laid flat in a horizontal manner so that the knuckles or growth rings are visible from the top.

• Is carbonized bamboo softer than natural bamboo?

Ans. Yes. Carbonized bamboo is softer than natural bamboo because it undergoes a special process of heating. In this process, bamboo strips are kiln-baked by high-pressure streaming or heating which caramelizes or carbonizes the sugars inside giving it a darker colour and making it softer by around 10%. However, this only applies to classic bamboo flooring, not for strand-woven bamboo.

• What is the preferred temperature and humidity level for bamboo flooring?

Ans. Bamboo flooring is hygroscopic and needs a controlled environment to perform well. It tends to absorb moisture from the air which can cause warping or swelling. To increase the stability of bamboo flooring, the relative humidity level should be maintained between 40% and 60% and the temperature should be between 60° and 80°F.

• Which is the strongest bamboo flooring?

Ans. Strand-woven bamboo flooring is the strongest type available. This flooring is made by pulling apart strands of bamboo stalks and weaving them in an adhesive base to form a stronger material. It is far more durable than traditional (vertical and horizontal) bamboo flooring as the strands are cross-hatched to hold the material together.

• Can I install bamboo flooring on my staircase?

Ans. Yes, you can easily install bamboo flooring on your staircase. Choose a bamboo flooring option that has a click fitting system along with a matching bamboo stair nosing. Cut the planks to the size of your stairs and place them after applying adhesive on the surface. Simple!

Hope you got answers to the questions about bamboo flooring. It is a beautiful, durable and eco-friendly flooring option.