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A little known fact: bamboo
is technically not a tree at all, but a grass that includes over 1,000
species. Even without planting, bamboo naturally grows back, and it reaches
maturity in only four to five years. These qualities make bamboo an
excellent, forest-friendly source of wood for flooring.
Bamboo flooring may be new to North America but there are already several
importers. Almost all bamboo imported to Canada and the United States is
grown and manufactured in China though, it can be found in all of Southeast
Asia.
Bamboo flooring is durable, and has a warmth and beauty that makes it
especially desirable for flooring. Though there are many species of bamboo,
only some are suitable for making flooring. Moso, for instance, is a common
choice that reaches 40-50 feet high after just one year of growth. In
another three years, the reeds are mature enough for harvesting. After
harvesting, the bamboo is dried in the sun and then cut into strips that are
shaped and planed. From these strips, bamboo flooring is made through a
process of laminating and staining. The two main colors available for bamboo
flooring are natural (a light woody color), and carbonized (an amber shade).
There are also other color variations depending on the staining method.
Bamboo flooring has many remarkable qualities that make it equal to or
better than many other “wood” flooring options. It is as hard as hard maple,
and has been confirmed as harder and more stable than red oak. Maintenance
for bamboo flooring is no different than for other pre-finished wood floor
products -- frequent sweeping or vacuuming, spray cleaners, and occasionally
mopping. Environmentally, the impact on world forests would be dramatically
lessened if bamboo flooring were more widely used.
When considering bamboo flooring, it is important to know that not all
bamboo is equal. Nor is all bamboo processing equal. Some discount or
wholesale companies are already selling immaturely cut bamboo for bamboo
flooring. The result is low-quality, cheap bamboo flooring that won’t last.
Timing is also important in processing bamboo. If it is not treated within
three days after it has been cut, the bamboo can easily mold, making the
resulting flooring look bland and dull. Be sure to confirm that the
wholesaler you deal with is knowledgeable and can assure that their bamboo
and processing methods are of high quality.
About the Author: Bamboo Flooring provides detailed information about bamboo
laminate flooring, discount bamboo flooring, installation, suppliers, and
more. For more information go to
http://www.e-bambooflooring.com and/or visit its sister site at
http://www.i-hardwood-floors.com for related information.
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