Bamboo flooring provides an excellent alternative to traditional hardwood flooring. Growing in popularity as an alternative, bamboo floors have many features that make it stand out when compared to hardwood. Although harvested primarily in China, a bamboo floor can now be found easily in both European and North American markets.

Lots of early users of bamboo floors point out its ecological friendliness. The bamboo plant re-grows inside a few seasons and can be cut frequently without causing any lasting damage. In fact, the bamboo plant is said to be a grass, as it grows far more rapidly than a tree. When done correctly, bamboo plant harvesting can be completed without causing any lasting harm. 

How does bamboo flooring measure up to established hardwoods? Top class bamboo floors are tougher and more hard-wearing than even the most costly hardwood flooring. Dampness does not have an effect on bamboo in the way that hardwood suffers from water damage. Where established hardwood can cup and crown due to water damage; a bamboo floor will resist water with no a problem what so ever.

Bamboo flooring is engineered like a laminate and treated under extremely high pressure with a high quality glue. This makes this type of flooring is very resistant to abrasions and scratches, where a hardwood floor would end up showing scratches. Bamboo floors have become significantly more affordable in the past few years as well.

Best of all, this flooring material is easy enough to lay down without any professional help. Like many of the newer hardwoods, this flooring is produced with a tongue and groove construction, making them considerably easier to install. Prior to laying down a bamboo floor, let the planks to adjust to their new environment for no less than 72 hours. Although bamboo flooring is very resistant to moisture, they do need some time to adjust to their new climate before installation.

What should be done to maintain a bamboo floor? Maintenance requirements are fairly easy for bamboo flooring. Make certain to sweep and mop the floor after it is laid down. Regular dusting and sweeping should be done after installation. This will prevent a build up of dust that can dull the finish. A mat used at the entrance way will keep out a great deal of dust and dirt. Dirt and small rocks will end up damaging the finish, and a mat can go a long way in preventing this problem.

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