Jul 15 2009
Bamboo Floor
There are different types of bamboo floors, each differing in how they are made and their cost. The end result is a wide range of choices for consumers, based on practicality and budget for the flooring.
Bamboo flooring is not a new idea. The most common type and probably the oldest type as well are typically found in Southeast Asia. There, thin bamboo strips are cut to be as flat as they can get them. They are then stained or left in their natural coloring. These strips are then either attached to wooden beams or to larger pieces of bamboo. The resulting flooring has more spacing between the bamboo pieces which results in better air circulation. This type of flooring is often found in houses that are built on stilts and during the summer months the air circulation is a welcome addition.
In North America, bamboo flooring is totally different. It is manufactured flooring that is considered laminate. Unlike other laminate flooring however, bamboo flooring is solid bamboo. Bamboo strips are cut and flattened then kiln dried to add strength. These pieces are then laid closely together and glued under high pressure. They are sold as either straight edge or as snap-lock for easier installation.
Horizontal or Vertical
Bamboo flooring is either listed as horizontal or vertical. Vertical bamboo floors are made with the bamboo component pieces stood vertically on their thinnest side. These pieces are then hard press laminated in a side by side fashion. The resulting plank is a very consistent, lined look to the flooring.
In contrast to vertical bamboo floors, horizontal bamboo flooring has the individual bamboo pieces arranged horizontally on their wide edge. These are then hard press laminated, just like the vertical edge planks. Horizontal bamboo flooring planks have randomly visible bamboo characteristics.
Bamboo flooring, like other hardwood flooring is available in locking planks that join together for a simple installation. They are also available in straight edge planks that are glued, nailed or stapled down for installation.
The coloring of bamboo flooring varies. It can be purchased in its natural color or in various shades created using stains during the process. Bamboo flooring is also available that has a slightly brown color due to a process called carbonization.
Carbonization is a process where the bamboo is steamed under pressure and high heat to remove any micro-organisms. This process also breaks down the sugar in the plant and changes the coloring of the wood.
Bamboo flooring is becoming a popular choice for flooring among people who are concerned about sustaining the Earth and using products are considered eco-friendly. Bamboo can typically be harvested from four to six years after being planted. Some companies purchase bamboo for flooring from bamboo plantations, farms that grow bamboo specifically for manufacturing purposes. These plantations keep wild bamboo from being harvested and add to the eco-friendly aspect.
-Sharon V. Chapman
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