Bamboo has become a popular material used in the flooring industry. It’s no wonder, as this material is stylish, resistant and eco-friendly at the same time. Although it is a type of grass, it is similar to hardwood flooring, which makes it a great green alternative. Yet, it’s crucial to completely understand several details about natural bamboo flooring before making a purchasing decision.

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Types of natural bamboo flooring

As in the case of hardwood flooring, there are different types of bamboo flooring. The two popular categories are solid and engineered bamboo flooring.

Solid bamboo flooring

This type of flooring is created using multiple bamboo pieces (strand or stalks) and fusing them together through pressurization and adhesives. Solid bamboo flooring also divides into three categories: horizontal, vertical and strand woven flooring.

Engineered bamboo flooring

Engineered bamboo flooring is a combination of bamboo and other wood materials. The top layer is the only one made of solid bamboo. The next layers are made from the wood materials mix., making this type of flooring more stable than the solid bamboo one.

As any product, natural bamboo flooring has its strong and weak points. Let’s take a look at them.

The benefits of natural bamboo flooring

Eco-friendly

There is no doubt that bamboo is one of the most popular eco-friendly materials. It grows really fast, it does not need supervision or special treatment such as pesticides or herbicides for a healthy development and requires little irrigation. This makes it a great alternative to flooring made from other types of wood.

Durable

Depending on the bamboo type, the material which is added and the manufacturing processes, bamboo flooring can be quite durable and resistant. It can last up to 10-25 years or even more if it is well maintained.

Out of the types of natural bamboo flooring we’ve mentioned, the strand woven one is the most durable. Although it’s a little softer, it can be compared to Brazilian walnut flooring.

Due to its durability, natural bamboo flooring is a great choice for hallways or living rooms, as it can resist to intense ‘traffic.’ Avoid spaces with high humidity and great exposure to water such as bathrooms.

Healthy

If you are looking for an hypo-allergenic product, natural bamboo flooring is a great option for you. This makes the type of flooring safe for you and your family. What’s more, it has anti-static and non-slip properties.

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Easy to maintain

Natural bamboo flooring does not require any special cleaning treatment or products. You just need to wipe it or vacuum it regularly. Sometimes, you may also want to use a damp mop and some cleaning solution, as you would use for a hardwood floor.

Affordable

When comparing hardwood and natural bamboo flooring in terms of price, the eco-friendly option is more affordable. Harder and resistant hardwood floorings are expensive, but more durable. Yet, if you are looking for a middle option, the bamboo flooring has a bit of both.

Stylish look

Natural bamboo flooring can completely change the appearance of a room. Although it is similar to hardwood, it has a distinct look. Bamboo flooring can give a room an elegant and stylish look.

The weak points of natural bamboo flooring

VOC emissions

As we’ve mentioned above, bamboo flooring is created using adhesives and pressurization. These adhesives can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are toxic and harmful gases for nature and your health.

In order to make a safe and healthy choice, check to see if the flooring you are buying is certified as a good environmental choice. Companies may use products low in VOC, which means they are safer for your health and a more eco-friendly option.

Water damage

Although bamboo is more resistant to water than hardwood, this does not mean it won’t suffer from water damage. A large amount of liquid such as a flood or an inundation caused by a broken pipe can greatly damage the flooring. Also, it’s still prone to warping or growing mold.

 

Natural Bamboo Flooring As An Eco-Friendly Alternative To Hardwood Flooring
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