Tips and Guides to Bamboo Flooring

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Selecting Your Bamboo Flooring

There are different factors to consider in selecting the right bamboo flooring for your home. There are numerous types in the market and it is best to consult with bamboo flooring experts before making a decision.

First thing to consider is the climate or humidity in the area. Bamboo floors are not ideal for humid climates. Though there are types that may be resistant to a certain level of humidity, it is best to consider bamboo floors in areas that are prone to moisture and heat. It is for this reason that bamboo floors are not recommended for bathrooms or kitchens.

Ask the retailer for the different characteristics of the types of bamboo floors. Get the benefits and disadvantages of each and weigh them against your budget for the bamboo flooring. If you are concerned about its impact on the environment, you may want to know how environmentally friendly the type of bamboo you have chosen. Bamboo is considered a green product. However, types differ in processing and some may have more unwanted chemicals than you prefer.

Make sure you are aware of the level of durability of each type. Those made from Moso bamboo are considered sturdier and these should not be harvested from bamboo plants that are less than 5 years of age. Those aged below 5 years are not fully mature and may succumb to cracks or splitting compared to older bamboos.

Schedule a visit from Aladdin Carpet and we will make sure all your questions about bamboo flooring will be answered. Aladdin Carpet’s commitment is to help potential customers make an informed decision that will benefit not only their home, but also their budget.

Installation of Bamboo Flooring

There are different types of installation for bamboo flooring depending on the surface or type of bamboo floor.

• Floating - This is the usual method for bamboo planks with tongue and groove joints that interlock together. An underlay is placed between the bamboo flooring and the floor surface before the boards are glued together. Bamboo floors that float can be installed over any type of floor surface.
• Stapling or Nailing - This method is utilized on floor surfaces that are either wood or those where a plywood subfloor will be placed before the bamboo plank. The staple or nail will also be placed on the grooves, but care should be taken that these are not placed too near the edges to prevent splitting of the plank. It is also on option to seal the floor with glue after the nailing or stapling.
• Gluing - Bamboo planks can also be glued if the floor surface is made of concrete or wood. It is necessary for this method that the floor surface is free of dust and other particles to ensure that the adhesives work perfectly.

For all these methods, it is necessary to provide for about 10mm expansion gap since it is likely that the bamboo flooring will contract and expand depending on the temperature or climate. Some even recommend that the bamboo planks be acclimated in your area before installation. Moreover, the floor surfaces should be leveled to keep the bamboo planks stable and avoid damage. Finally, make sure you order extra boards to cover for wastage or damage during installation. It is also possible that measurement may be inaccurate. It is best to have extra planks that match with your floor. Aside from wastage, you can also keep some of them to cover for repairs in case of unexpected damages.

Some homeowners do attempt to install their bamboo floors on their own to save on cost. However, to ensure less wastage and proper installation, it is recommended that you allow the experts to do the installation. Aladdin Carpets employ experts that make installation faster and more efficient. Aladdin Carpets also has the proper equipment that will facilitate installation of your bamboo flooring.

Care and Maintenance of Bamboo Floors

Taking care of your bamboo flooring is almost similar to hardwood floors. It is not recommended that a damp mop be used. Ideally, a microfiber mop will be good for your bamboo floor. It can easily absorb grime and dirt that may be difficult to take out.

Remember to clean your bamboo floor immediately after a spill that can stain or cause water damage. Once a spill occurs, immediately clean the area with a dry cloth. Make sure that no residue remains that may be more difficult to remove at a later time.

To keep your bamboo flooring from scratches, use rubber or felt pads under your furniture legs. Bristle type mats should also be kept on exterior door entrances. These will collect dirt and small stones from entering the house. For those that are prone to wet spills, area rugs should be within reach in case of accidents. Pet nails should be trimmed regularly to ensure they do not scratch your bamboo flooring.