The popularity of bamboo flooring has recently exploded, in part due to the environmental factor. Because bamboo is able to replenish itself very quickly, many homeowners are choosing to use it as their flooring choice. In making their final decision many homeowners are wondering just how durable is bamboo flooring.

As previously stated, bamboo grows very fast. As it grows it gains strength, regardless of the soil it grows in it becomes stronger. The strength and durability of bamboo remain inherent to the wood even after the harvest.

Adding Strength

In addition to being a naturally strong wood as is, bamboo undergoes some processes which make it especially durable and strong for use as a flooring option. Some of the steps that are used to add to the strength of bamboo include:

* After harvesting of the bamboo, the green outer stalks are removed to expose the bamboo stalk. This stalk is then cut into strips which will eventually become flooring. The bamboo strips are then boiled to remove the starch from the wood. This process keeps termites out of the wood and also removes the natural moisture of the wood.

* The bamboo is then boiled longer to help carbonize it and darken the hue. This enhances the look of the bamboo strips which will be made into flooring. This stage of continued boiling is more for the color effect; carbonized bamboo is somewhat weaker than bamboo left its natural color.

* After the boiling process, the flooring is ready to be assembled. The bamboo strips are glued together in a horizontal and vertical pattern which promotes the strength of the floor. There are also woven patterns using bamboo that are strong as well.

* Kiln drying creates a very stable wood that is more durable and less likely to crack than bamboo that is not kiln dried.

What to Look For

There are things that potential bamboo flooring owners can look for when purchasing the flooring to insure they are getting quality planks. These include:

* Straight milling using electronic equipment. Often, the inexpensive bamboo flooring companies use hand mills or presses which can create inconsistencies and cause the planks to fall apart over a period of time.

* Look for longer planks. Longer bamboo stalks must be used to cut longer planks without using filler. This makes for a stronger, higher quality flooring plank. Shorter planks tend to use filler.

* Crosswise layers. Purchasers should look for a crosswise layer in wide planks. This crosswise layer adds support to prevent the board from warping.

The final factor homeowners should be aware of when purchasing bamboo flooring is the finish. The finish will play an important part in the durability of the floor and in how scratch resistant it will be. The warranty is a good way to determine how durable the flooring will be. Companies that offer ten or twenty-year warranties know that they have a strong, durable flooring that is going to last.

Bamboo flooring is becoming a popular flooring choice among homeowners. It is durable, easy to clean and less expensive than hardwood yet just as beautiful.

-Sharon V. Chapman