What Is Bamboo Flooring?

Bamboo flooring is a type of flooring manufactured from bamboo grass rather than wood. Most modern products use mature Moso bamboo, which is processed into planks via three common methods: horizontal cut, vertical cut, or strand‑woven construction.

Strand‑woven bamboo is particularly dense and hard—its Janka hardness rating can exceed 3000, even up to 5000, making it harder than many hardwood species like red oak or hard maple.

Bamboo flooring is prized for its sleek, modern appearance, available in natural blond tones or rich carbonized hues. It often comes either as solid bamboo planks or as engineered bamboo flooring with click‑lock or tongue‑and‑groove systems for easy installation.

Advantages of Bamboo Flooring

1. Eco‑friendly & Rapidly Renewable

Bamboo matures in 3–5 years and regenerates from its root system without replanting—unlike traditional hardwoods that take decades to mature.It sequesters significant carbon and is often certified by FSC or qualifies for LEED credits as a rapidly renewable material.

2. Exceptional Durability

Strand‑woven bamboo is extremely hard and scratch‑resistant—often harder than oak or maple. Even standard vertical/horizontal bamboo is comparable to traditional hardwoods. It resists dents, making it suitable for busy households.

3. Affordable Compared to Traditional Hardwood

While carbonized bamboo can be slightly softer, bamboo flooring typically costs about $2–8 per square foot for materials, and total installed cost stays under $10 per square foot—often more affordable than solid hardwood alternatives.

4. Low Maintenance & Hygienic

Maintaining bamboo flooring is easy and suitable for allergy‑sensitive users. Regular sweeping or vacuuming removes allergens, and it naturally resists mold, bacteria, and dust mites.

5. Versatility of Design & Use

Available in various plank widths, colors, and grain patterns, bamboo fits modern, minimalist, or traditional decor. Engineered bamboo works over concrete, radiant underfloor heating, and various subfloors—and is well-suited for living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and offices.

Best Applications for Bamboo Flooring

• High‑traffic areas such as living rooms, hallways, and commercial offices thanks to its hardness.

• Bedrooms and family rooms, where a warmer, softer underfoot feel is appreciated.

• Offices or allergen‑sensitive homes—easy to clean and low in dust accumulation.

• Some engineered bamboo is rated for kitchens or dining areas—but avoid direct water exposure or prolonged moisture.

Bamboo is less ideal for bathrooms or sunrooms unless you choose water‑resistant or properly sealed types and keep humidity controlled.

Installation of Bamboo Flooring

There are three main installation methods: floating click‑lock, glue‑down, or nail‑down, similar to hardwood installation.

Preparation

1. Acclimate Flooring: Store planks in the installation area, flat in boxes, for at least 48 to 72 hours to stabilize moisture content and prevent gapping or warping later.

2. Subfloor Condition: Ensure subfloor is clean, dry, level. For concrete, moisture vapor should remain below ~6%. Use vapor barriers as recommended.

Installation Methods

• Floating Click‑Lock: Easiest DIY option. Planks click together, floating above the subfloor with expansion gaps. Ideal for engineered bamboo over plywood or concrete.

• Glue‑Down: Spread adhesive on the subfloor and lay planks directly. Offers stability, works over concrete, but is more labor‑intensive and messy.

• Nail‑Down: Common for solid bamboo over wood subfloors. Use proper strip spacers, nail perpendicular to joists; leave expansion gaps at room perimeter and obstacles.

Practical Tips

• Stagger end joints at least six inches apart to avoid "H" joints and achieve a natural look.

• Use spacers around perimeter to allow expansion.

• Tools: tapping block, pull bar, undercut saw, spacers, chalk line, measuring tools etc.

  
  

Cleaning & Maintenance Tips

Daily/Regular Tasks

• Use a microfiber dust mop or soft‑bristle broom to sweep dust and grit daily—avoids scratches from debris.

• Vacuum with a hardwood‑safe attachment as needed, avoiding rotating brush heads that can damage the finish.

Mopping

• Use a barely damp microfiber mop with a pH‑neutral hardwood cleaner (no vinegar or ammonia)—wring thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

• Spot clean spills immediately with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge and dry thoroughly to prevent warping or stains.

Deep Cleaning

• Occasionally use a pH‑neutral, non‑toxic cleaner, preferably biodegradable and floor‑safe.

• Avoid steam mops or wax‑based products—they can damage the finish. Also avoid abrasive cleaners or furniture polish that may leave residue.

Preventive Care

• Maintain indoor humidity between 40–60% to minimize expansion or gaps.

• Use felt pads under furniture legs, place doormats at entrances, and avoid walking in high heels or dragging heavy items on the floor.

Why Choose Bamboo Flooring?

• A renewable, eco‑friendly alternative to hardwood.

• Durable, scratch‑resistant, and available in hard strand‑woven variants.

• Affordable, easy to install (especially engineered click‑lock types), and manageable for DIY.

• Simple to maintain, hygienic, and visually appealing for a wide range of interior spaces.

• Suitable for high‑traffic areas, modern homes, offices, and allergy‑sensitive households.

Contact Us

If you or your clients are interested in exploring high‑quality bamboo flooring solutions, please visit our website and feel free to get in touch. We’d be happy to discuss your needs and provide personalized recommendations.