Bamboo is increasing its popularity as a superb flooring option in our ever more "green" way of looking at things. It may even be an understatement to say bamboo is an extraordinary plant. It is not really a wood, but yet has tremendous potential as a flooring resource. Bamboo is emerging as an alternative resource to other types of wood because of its strength and hardness.
Bamboo Not Wood?
Not being a wood product; then what is bamboo? Bamboo is a grass: a very tough form of grass, but a grass nevertheless. Bamboo is a plant, commonly grown in Asia, but found on almost every continent. Unlike a tree that must be felled before it can be used to manufacture floorboards or make a cabinet, bamboo is a grass that can re-grow after it has been harvested without the need to nurture a new plant. A re-grown plant is ready to harvest in, as short a time, as five years.
But A Wood Replacement?
Bamboo can be a viable replacement for standard hardwood floors. It is a great alternative because the unique, beautiful, appearance of bamboo is similar to wood flooring. It is also, one of the hardest "woods" in existence; harder than oak, even harder than maple. Bamboo thus becomes a serious alternative to other hardwoods. It achieves this durability by being more resistant to moisture, which makes it far more stable.
Where Does Its Strength Come From?
Bamboo flooring is not solid bamboo. It is made up of strips of material, which have been run through a machine, which splits and then sizes the product. The pieces then are laminated together into "solid" planking. Because it is a laminate product it has tremendous hardness and strength. When properly laminated the strength of bamboo approaches that of soft steel. It is any wonder then, the resistance to abrasion and indentation of bamboo is twice that of any similar woods?
Sure, But How Does It Look?
All that strength is great but how does it look? Because bamboo is a natural product, it possesses color variations. Bamboo flooring is subject to fading, so the bamboo must be kiln dried. After drying it is planed and sanded, then treated with a special UV coating to cut down on any fading. Still, as a natural flooring product, bamboo will experience some change of color. It is just a characteristic of any natural product.
Bamboo, The Green Alternative
Flooring can play such an important part in elevating the look of a house. Bamboo is no exception it is an excellent flooring material and so environmentally friendly. It can be a dream material for the environmentally conscious homeowner. Feng Shui uses bamboo to help achieve a positive, favorable energy. As a replacement for hardwood, bamboo can be at home just about anywhere, especially underfoot. It is a great product for floors Consider bamboo flooring when replacing the floors in your home.
Showing posts with label flooring. Show all posts
Showing posts with label flooring. Show all posts
Tuesday, 29 March 2011
Tuesday, 2 February 2010
Bamboo Flooring and Its Many Benefits
Bamboo flooring has indeed flourished as one of the better options for using hardwood flooring in residential homes and even commercial establishments. This may be attributed to the fact that it is actually more beneficial using the bamboo flooring than its counterparts.
It is originally made from a renewable source and what is more, it is truly very easy to set up, not to mention that it is very stylish. Definitely, installing such bamboo flooring provides not only durability but also some attractive and options that are environmentally friendly. In fact, you may use bamboo in your dining room and you will be assured to never experience warping like how many people experienced with their hardwood. Likewise, there is guaranteed no cracking on your floors, or incidences of getting splinters on your dining tables. Truly, there can be no more resilient a type of flooring than the bamboo. Here are some more tips to help you make up your mind on what is the best type of flooring to use for your home.
Environmental Benefits of Bamboo Flooring
It is definitely eco-friendly. Bamboos reach maturity much faster than the other hardwood trees which take decades to mature. What is more, roots of the bamboos never stop producing new trees even if they have just been recently harvested.
Bamboo Flooring Installation and Affordability
Another popular benefit of this is that you can expect that the prices are somewhat more stable than the other hardwood trees used for home renovations. Bamboo is less expensive compared to hardwood flooring and installation is so simple and easy as 1,2,3.
What is more, it will cost you less for the bamboo materials than setting up hardwood flooring; and to think installation charges of professional installers are just the same. Although, you will definitely save more if you install it all by yourself. You may do so over other types of materials like vinyl tiles, wood, or plywood.
The Many Varieties of Bamboo Floors
There is a wide assortment of bamboo types, finishes as well as the grades of bamboo flooring which are truly stylish and beautiful. While there may be some that are horizontal or vertical grains, there are also the naturally looking and those that have darker shades. Such options can be especially ordered and guaranteed to perfectly fit any style of home therefore, creating a genuinely unique look.
Durability
Bamboo flooring is usually laminated and blemished that makes it a point it fights off moisture. This is actually what makes it so ideal for the flooring of your bathrooms, dining rooms and kitchen areas, your family rooms, the laundry area and many other areas that might get too much moisture.
Quality Bamboo Floor
Most of all, it would be best to get some research on the different companies that offer bamboo flooring before finally plunging into any purchase. Definitely, you will want to purchase flooring which has been harvested for about five years or else they will be weaker. Make sure you get the warranty you deserve when buying your bamboo flooring to get the best buy ever.
It is originally made from a renewable source and what is more, it is truly very easy to set up, not to mention that it is very stylish. Definitely, installing such bamboo flooring provides not only durability but also some attractive and options that are environmentally friendly. In fact, you may use bamboo in your dining room and you will be assured to never experience warping like how many people experienced with their hardwood. Likewise, there is guaranteed no cracking on your floors, or incidences of getting splinters on your dining tables. Truly, there can be no more resilient a type of flooring than the bamboo. Here are some more tips to help you make up your mind on what is the best type of flooring to use for your home.
Environmental Benefits of Bamboo Flooring
It is definitely eco-friendly. Bamboos reach maturity much faster than the other hardwood trees which take decades to mature. What is more, roots of the bamboos never stop producing new trees even if they have just been recently harvested.
Bamboo Flooring Installation and Affordability
Another popular benefit of this is that you can expect that the prices are somewhat more stable than the other hardwood trees used for home renovations. Bamboo is less expensive compared to hardwood flooring and installation is so simple and easy as 1,2,3.
What is more, it will cost you less for the bamboo materials than setting up hardwood flooring; and to think installation charges of professional installers are just the same. Although, you will definitely save more if you install it all by yourself. You may do so over other types of materials like vinyl tiles, wood, or plywood.
The Many Varieties of Bamboo Floors
There is a wide assortment of bamboo types, finishes as well as the grades of bamboo flooring which are truly stylish and beautiful. While there may be some that are horizontal or vertical grains, there are also the naturally looking and those that have darker shades. Such options can be especially ordered and guaranteed to perfectly fit any style of home therefore, creating a genuinely unique look.
Durability
Bamboo flooring is usually laminated and blemished that makes it a point it fights off moisture. This is actually what makes it so ideal for the flooring of your bathrooms, dining rooms and kitchen areas, your family rooms, the laundry area and many other areas that might get too much moisture.
Quality Bamboo Floor
Most of all, it would be best to get some research on the different companies that offer bamboo flooring before finally plunging into any purchase. Definitely, you will want to purchase flooring which has been harvested for about five years or else they will be weaker. Make sure you get the warranty you deserve when buying your bamboo flooring to get the best buy ever.
Sunday, 31 January 2010
Discovering the Benefits of Bamboo
Very few people know the true power and versatility of bamboo. Once thought of as just another landscaping grass, bamboo is quickly becoming a great alternative to wood products. There are over 1,500 types of bamboo available, though just over two percent of those types are currently being used as a material.
The Asians have utilized bamboo for centuries, used in their food, their shelter, and their daily life. Ancient Asians used bamboo as a paper product, created homes and furniture with dried bamboo, and even used it in soups. Yet, bamboo can be used for some much more.
When dried and treated, bamboo is a very rigid wood, which can be used in flooring for homes. While at times expensive, bamboo is a great alternative because it can so quickly be replenished in nature. Bamboo can hold up in most any element, which is why it was so valuable to the ancient civilizations of Asia. It's durability and strength makes bamboo an excellent choice for building material.
Bamboo is often seen in construction due to its rigidity and core strength. It is no wonder that previous generations in America used dried bamboo stalks as fishing poles. The bamboo stalks were durable enough to hold when a fish was hooked. Bamboo is still used in small towns across America, though western and European cultures comprehend its value beyond the every day fishing pole or wind chimes.
Since bamboo is a grass, it is a renewable resource. It needs very little room to grow, since certain varieties grow upwards to sixty feet. It generally takes weeks for the grass to grow back once harvested and continues to grow year round. It is these certain attributes that make bamboo quite beneficial to modern civilization.
However, if you are planning on adding bamboo to your current garden, it is advisable to do your homework first. Bamboo, while easy to maintain, can be tricky to remove from your land once it is planted, so make sure that you have the proper plant for your climate, garden and abilities. Once planted, all you will need to do is keep it watered regularly- after all, bamboo requires a great deal of water- and trim it to the appropriate length and width you desire. With over 1,500 varieties of bamboo available, it can get pretty tricky trying to find the perfect plant for your yard. This is why researching your grass is so important. There are varieties that have both clumpers and runners, then bamboo which have one or the other. Clumpers tend to grow outward, while runners grow upwards. Depending on your garden, you will need to decide which one is best suited for you.
The Chinese consider bamboo to be extremely lucky, so having this evergreen in your yard or home can bring much luck to your family. Though lucky bamboo is not traditionally bamboo, but more of a houseplant per se, it is still lucky. And anyone who has bamboo in their yard should consider himself or herself lucky, for they have planted one of nature's greatest grass and are giving back to the planet they love.
The Asians have utilized bamboo for centuries, used in their food, their shelter, and their daily life. Ancient Asians used bamboo as a paper product, created homes and furniture with dried bamboo, and even used it in soups. Yet, bamboo can be used for some much more.
When dried and treated, bamboo is a very rigid wood, which can be used in flooring for homes. While at times expensive, bamboo is a great alternative because it can so quickly be replenished in nature. Bamboo can hold up in most any element, which is why it was so valuable to the ancient civilizations of Asia. It's durability and strength makes bamboo an excellent choice for building material.
Bamboo is often seen in construction due to its rigidity and core strength. It is no wonder that previous generations in America used dried bamboo stalks as fishing poles. The bamboo stalks were durable enough to hold when a fish was hooked. Bamboo is still used in small towns across America, though western and European cultures comprehend its value beyond the every day fishing pole or wind chimes.
Since bamboo is a grass, it is a renewable resource. It needs very little room to grow, since certain varieties grow upwards to sixty feet. It generally takes weeks for the grass to grow back once harvested and continues to grow year round. It is these certain attributes that make bamboo quite beneficial to modern civilization.
However, if you are planning on adding bamboo to your current garden, it is advisable to do your homework first. Bamboo, while easy to maintain, can be tricky to remove from your land once it is planted, so make sure that you have the proper plant for your climate, garden and abilities. Once planted, all you will need to do is keep it watered regularly- after all, bamboo requires a great deal of water- and trim it to the appropriate length and width you desire. With over 1,500 varieties of bamboo available, it can get pretty tricky trying to find the perfect plant for your yard. This is why researching your grass is so important. There are varieties that have both clumpers and runners, then bamboo which have one or the other. Clumpers tend to grow outward, while runners grow upwards. Depending on your garden, you will need to decide which one is best suited for you.
The Chinese consider bamboo to be extremely lucky, so having this evergreen in your yard or home can bring much luck to your family. Though lucky bamboo is not traditionally bamboo, but more of a houseplant per se, it is still lucky. And anyone who has bamboo in their yard should consider himself or herself lucky, for they have planted one of nature's greatest grass and are giving back to the planet they love.
Wednesday, 27 January 2010
Is Bamboo Flooring Worth The Effort?
If you've noticed an increase in the prevalence of bamboo flooring advertisements then it's for very good reason. You see, bamboo flooring hasn't emerged as a popular alternative to other forms of floor coverings by accident. Consumers are being swayed to this natural and beautiful flooring type because it offers so many advantages over traditional types of floors.
Bamboo's Many Advantages
One of the biggest advantages of course is it's environmentally friendly and sustainable nature. Bamboo is a hardy plant and it's ability to regenerate in less than a year has earnt it a lot of "brownie points" with consumers. It provides the strength of a hardwood floor and it's added durable nature almost makes it a "no brainer" in today's day and age as the first choice for floor shoppers.
Bamboo flooring has gained momentum because of it's low maintainance requirements and this has a lot to do with it's natural qualities. Staining becomes a thing of the past particularly when you take into account that bamboo color is basically dependent on the length of time it spends in the "processing barn." Depending on how much traffic it has to endure, if the finish becomes worn and tired then a good sanding and re-finish is usually all that's required but again, this all depends on the level of use the floor is subjected to. In a normal situation, this won't be necessary for quite a few years.
Where To Shop
Shopping for bamboo flooring today becomes easier and easier. Once upon a time, consumers were usually required to rely on long distance browsing but today, more and more outlets have "jumped on the bamboo flooring bandwagon" and are offering consumers the opportunity to inspect this eco-friendly surface first hand. However, the internet still offers a great alternative to shoppers who haven't got access to first hand inspection and browsing online offers a multitude of sites ready to fulfil your needs.
Concentrating on the higher ranked sites should provide less cause for concern but one of the golden rules for shopping online in this instance is to make sure you can contact the seller directly. Phone would definitely be preferable. In many instances, online outlets are able to point you towards some reference points such as consumers who have bought from them previously and are willing to act as referees.
The Cost Factor
The cost of bamboo flooring is usually well within the budgets of most. While some offers of as low as $2 per square are available from some wholesalers make sure you ask for a written warranty with clear details written into it. Ready to install bamboo floors can cost up to $10 per square with installation an extra cost. Depending on your handyman skills, then the latter may not be a factor with a pre-finished floor but might require the services of a qualified installer if unfinished.
If you follow some well laid guidelines on shopping for bamboo flooring then there is no reason why it shouldn't provide you with many years of loyal service.
Bamboo's Many Advantages
One of the biggest advantages of course is it's environmentally friendly and sustainable nature. Bamboo is a hardy plant and it's ability to regenerate in less than a year has earnt it a lot of "brownie points" with consumers. It provides the strength of a hardwood floor and it's added durable nature almost makes it a "no brainer" in today's day and age as the first choice for floor shoppers.
Bamboo flooring has gained momentum because of it's low maintainance requirements and this has a lot to do with it's natural qualities. Staining becomes a thing of the past particularly when you take into account that bamboo color is basically dependent on the length of time it spends in the "processing barn." Depending on how much traffic it has to endure, if the finish becomes worn and tired then a good sanding and re-finish is usually all that's required but again, this all depends on the level of use the floor is subjected to. In a normal situation, this won't be necessary for quite a few years.
Where To Shop
Shopping for bamboo flooring today becomes easier and easier. Once upon a time, consumers were usually required to rely on long distance browsing but today, more and more outlets have "jumped on the bamboo flooring bandwagon" and are offering consumers the opportunity to inspect this eco-friendly surface first hand. However, the internet still offers a great alternative to shoppers who haven't got access to first hand inspection and browsing online offers a multitude of sites ready to fulfil your needs.
Concentrating on the higher ranked sites should provide less cause for concern but one of the golden rules for shopping online in this instance is to make sure you can contact the seller directly. Phone would definitely be preferable. In many instances, online outlets are able to point you towards some reference points such as consumers who have bought from them previously and are willing to act as referees.
The Cost Factor
The cost of bamboo flooring is usually well within the budgets of most. While some offers of as low as $2 per square are available from some wholesalers make sure you ask for a written warranty with clear details written into it. Ready to install bamboo floors can cost up to $10 per square with installation an extra cost. Depending on your handyman skills, then the latter may not be a factor with a pre-finished floor but might require the services of a qualified installer if unfinished.
If you follow some well laid guidelines on shopping for bamboo flooring then there is no reason why it shouldn't provide you with many years of loyal service.
Monday, 18 January 2010
The Latest Trend in Flooring - Bamboo Flooring
Real wood floor can look beautiful and charming and is used widely all over the world as a preferred flooring material. While it can be very chic and beautiful, it is also much common. The latest trend in flooring options is using bamboo as a flooring material.
Bamboo is actually not a wood, but a type of grass. Bamboo is known for growing at a very high speed which means that it is replaced much faster in comparison to the other types of wood. Using bamboo for flooring ensures that there are no negative effects on the environment, which is why plenty of people choose to go green with bamboo floorings. With bamboo floors, homeowners have a choice or vertical or flat grains.
Generally, bamboo flooring is available in its natural honey shade or in a darker shade. The darker amber shade however is achieved through steaming, which makes it softer and less sturdy than the natural bamboo. There can also be dyed or stained flooring options available with some manufacturers.
Bamboo floor manufacturing
For turning bamboo into flooring materials, the bamboo canes are first cut into long strips and are then boiled and steamed for a long time to make them soft and flat. A resin is used to turn them into the laminated boards that are then used for flooring.
Though bamboo seems to be very soft and light weight it is actually as hard as oak or maple wood. It can also be used in homes where spills are very common since bamboo is actually water and stain resistant.
Finishes
Bamboo floors are available in basically two finishes, finished and unfinished. The unfinished bamboo floors have squared edges which fit together perfectly and if chosen, homeowners can then finish them on their own to give it a desired effect and to save cost.
The finished floors are sealed with the help of polyurethane which makes them sturdy and make it look more polished. However, once they are finished it would not be possible to give them a stain.
Things to consider
Because of the various benefits of bamboo flooring and its natural look, bamboo floors can be quite expensive. Depending on whether they are finished or not the cost would vary. It is essential to ask a few questions before considering getting bamboo floors for the house. It is advisable to ask for a dent resistant bamboo floor since it would ensure that the floor lasts longer and does not get damaged.
Processed bamboo can be very hard and sturdy like oak so those who are looking for a sturdy material should choose bamboo planks which are not made from the base or the tip of the stalks. Another important thing to consider is whether or not to purchase a finished floor. Homeowners should also ask the store about the moisture content of the flooring. A good bamboo floor should not have a moisture content of more than four percent of the sub-flooring.
Bamboo is actually not a wood, but a type of grass. Bamboo is known for growing at a very high speed which means that it is replaced much faster in comparison to the other types of wood. Using bamboo for flooring ensures that there are no negative effects on the environment, which is why plenty of people choose to go green with bamboo floorings. With bamboo floors, homeowners have a choice or vertical or flat grains.
Generally, bamboo flooring is available in its natural honey shade or in a darker shade. The darker amber shade however is achieved through steaming, which makes it softer and less sturdy than the natural bamboo. There can also be dyed or stained flooring options available with some manufacturers.
Bamboo floor manufacturing
For turning bamboo into flooring materials, the bamboo canes are first cut into long strips and are then boiled and steamed for a long time to make them soft and flat. A resin is used to turn them into the laminated boards that are then used for flooring.
Though bamboo seems to be very soft and light weight it is actually as hard as oak or maple wood. It can also be used in homes where spills are very common since bamboo is actually water and stain resistant.
Finishes
Bamboo floors are available in basically two finishes, finished and unfinished. The unfinished bamboo floors have squared edges which fit together perfectly and if chosen, homeowners can then finish them on their own to give it a desired effect and to save cost.
The finished floors are sealed with the help of polyurethane which makes them sturdy and make it look more polished. However, once they are finished it would not be possible to give them a stain.
Things to consider
Because of the various benefits of bamboo flooring and its natural look, bamboo floors can be quite expensive. Depending on whether they are finished or not the cost would vary. It is essential to ask a few questions before considering getting bamboo floors for the house. It is advisable to ask for a dent resistant bamboo floor since it would ensure that the floor lasts longer and does not get damaged.
Processed bamboo can be very hard and sturdy like oak so those who are looking for a sturdy material should choose bamboo planks which are not made from the base or the tip of the stalks. Another important thing to consider is whether or not to purchase a finished floor. Homeowners should also ask the store about the moisture content of the flooring. A good bamboo floor should not have a moisture content of more than four percent of the sub-flooring.
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
The Latest Trend in Flooring - Bamboo Flooring
Real wood floor can look beautiful and charming and is used widely all over the world as a preferred flooring material. While it can be very chic and beautiful, it is also much common. The latest trend in flooring options is using bamboo as a flooring material.
Bamboo is actually not a wood, but a type of grass. Bamboo is known for growing at a very high speed which means that it is replaced much faster in comparison to the other types of wood. Using bamboo for flooring ensures that there are no negative effects on the environment, which is why plenty of people choose to go green with bamboo floorings. With bamboo floors, homeowners have a choice or vertical or flat grains.
Generally, bamboo flooring is available in its natural honey shade or in a darker shade. The darker amber shade however is achieved through steaming, which makes it softer and less sturdy than the natural bamboo. There can also be dyed or stained flooring options available with some manufacturers.
Bamboo floor manufacturing
For turning bamboo into flooring materials, the bamboo canes are first cut into long strips and are then boiled and steamed for a long time to make them soft and flat. A resin is used to turn them into the laminated boards that are then used for flooring.
Though bamboo seems to be very soft and light weight it is actually as hard as oak or maple wood. It can also be used in homes where spills are very common since bamboo is actually water and stain resistant.
Finishes
Bamboo floors are available in basically two finishes, finished and unfinished. The unfinished bamboo floors have squared edges which fit together perfectly and if chosen, homeowners can then finish them on their own to give it a desired effect and to save cost.
The finished floors are sealed with the help of polyurethane which makes them sturdy and make it look more polished. However, once they are finished it would not be possible to give them a stain.
Things to consider
Because of the various benefits of bamboo flooring and its natural look, bamboo floors can be quite expensive. Depending on whether they are finished or not the cost would vary. It is essential to ask a few questions before considering getting bamboo floors for the house. It is advisable to ask for a dent resistant bamboo floor since it would ensure that the floor lasts longer and does not get damaged.
Processed bamboo can be very hard and sturdy like oak so those who are looking for a sturdy material should choose bamboo planks which are not made from the base or the tip of the stalks. Another important thing to consider is whether or not to purchase a finished floor. Homeowners should also ask the store about the moisture content of the flooring. A good bamboo floor should not have a moisture content of more than four percent of the sub-flooring.
Bamboo is actually not a wood, but a type of grass. Bamboo is known for growing at a very high speed which means that it is replaced much faster in comparison to the other types of wood. Using bamboo for flooring ensures that there are no negative effects on the environment, which is why plenty of people choose to go green with bamboo floorings. With bamboo floors, homeowners have a choice or vertical or flat grains.
Generally, bamboo flooring is available in its natural honey shade or in a darker shade. The darker amber shade however is achieved through steaming, which makes it softer and less sturdy than the natural bamboo. There can also be dyed or stained flooring options available with some manufacturers.
Bamboo floor manufacturing
For turning bamboo into flooring materials, the bamboo canes are first cut into long strips and are then boiled and steamed for a long time to make them soft and flat. A resin is used to turn them into the laminated boards that are then used for flooring.
Though bamboo seems to be very soft and light weight it is actually as hard as oak or maple wood. It can also be used in homes where spills are very common since bamboo is actually water and stain resistant.
Finishes
Bamboo floors are available in basically two finishes, finished and unfinished. The unfinished bamboo floors have squared edges which fit together perfectly and if chosen, homeowners can then finish them on their own to give it a desired effect and to save cost.
The finished floors are sealed with the help of polyurethane which makes them sturdy and make it look more polished. However, once they are finished it would not be possible to give them a stain.
Things to consider
Because of the various benefits of bamboo flooring and its natural look, bamboo floors can be quite expensive. Depending on whether they are finished or not the cost would vary. It is essential to ask a few questions before considering getting bamboo floors for the house. It is advisable to ask for a dent resistant bamboo floor since it would ensure that the floor lasts longer and does not get damaged.
Processed bamboo can be very hard and sturdy like oak so those who are looking for a sturdy material should choose bamboo planks which are not made from the base or the tip of the stalks. Another important thing to consider is whether or not to purchase a finished floor. Homeowners should also ask the store about the moisture content of the flooring. A good bamboo floor should not have a moisture content of more than four percent of the sub-flooring.
Wednesday, 6 January 2010
Bamboo Flooring For Your Home
While bamboo has been used for centuries in other parts of the world, it is just starting to gain popularity in the US as a flooring material. In the US, we associate bamboo with furniture, window treatments, mats, food, toothpicks, toys, wall coverings and a host of other things. Only recently, has bamboo been used as floor covering in the US.
Most of the bamboo flooring sold in the US comes from China and is of the Moso bamboo species. This species matures in three to five years. Bamboo is actually a grass and as such does not have to be replanted, but comes back from the root systems. It is used by a large part of the world as a main source of building materials. It generates more oxygen than a comparable stand of trees and can grow in many different climates. Because of the environmental aspects of bamboo, many people consider using bamboo a way of helping preserve our planet. However, there are issues to be considered when choosing bamboo flooring.
The softness of the flooring can be a drawback. If the bamboo is harvested too soon, the flooring produced will be soft and more easily marred. Most producers of bamboo flooring are overseas and do not necessarily have the types of quality standards and inspections that US manufacturers must adhere to. Most of the companies selling bamboo flooring in the US today import their material from manufacturers in China and the Far East. US companies carrying these types of flooring must scrutinize the quality of the product and manufacturing procedures. Some bamboo flooring is made with formaldehyde resins in the gluing process and do not meet the standards for indoor emissions of formaldehyde.
It is said that bamboo flooring can be made into any color. The darker material has to be carbonized and the darker the color the more carbonization has occurred. Carbonization occurs when heat is applied to the strips of bamboo. The more heat that is applied the softer the flooring material is. The closer to the light natural bamboo color, the harder the flooring material. If you are considering purchasing bamboo flooring, use the fingernail test on a sample to see how much of a mark is made when pushing the nail into the wood. You might want to compare bamboo to other flooring woods you may be considering.
There are several classes of engineered bamboo flooring including Horizontal and vertical flooring which indicates how the strips are glued and laminated together. The flooring planks of the vertical and horizontal method look different but are alike in installation. Both types can be glued, nailed or stapled but floating is not recommended. There is also a strand woven flooring which is harder but can present more installation challenges.
Most of the bamboo flooring sold in the US comes from China and is of the Moso bamboo species. This species matures in three to five years. Bamboo is actually a grass and as such does not have to be replanted, but comes back from the root systems. It is used by a large part of the world as a main source of building materials. It generates more oxygen than a comparable stand of trees and can grow in many different climates. Because of the environmental aspects of bamboo, many people consider using bamboo a way of helping preserve our planet. However, there are issues to be considered when choosing bamboo flooring.
The softness of the flooring can be a drawback. If the bamboo is harvested too soon, the flooring produced will be soft and more easily marred. Most producers of bamboo flooring are overseas and do not necessarily have the types of quality standards and inspections that US manufacturers must adhere to. Most of the companies selling bamboo flooring in the US today import their material from manufacturers in China and the Far East. US companies carrying these types of flooring must scrutinize the quality of the product and manufacturing procedures. Some bamboo flooring is made with formaldehyde resins in the gluing process and do not meet the standards for indoor emissions of formaldehyde.
It is said that bamboo flooring can be made into any color. The darker material has to be carbonized and the darker the color the more carbonization has occurred. Carbonization occurs when heat is applied to the strips of bamboo. The more heat that is applied the softer the flooring material is. The closer to the light natural bamboo color, the harder the flooring material. If you are considering purchasing bamboo flooring, use the fingernail test on a sample to see how much of a mark is made when pushing the nail into the wood. You might want to compare bamboo to other flooring woods you may be considering.
There are several classes of engineered bamboo flooring including Horizontal and vertical flooring which indicates how the strips are glued and laminated together. The flooring planks of the vertical and horizontal method look different but are alike in installation. Both types can be glued, nailed or stapled but floating is not recommended. There is also a strand woven flooring which is harder but can present more installation challenges.
Sunday, 29 November 2009
Bamboo Flooring - Environment Friendly Option
Bamboo Flooring is the best way to provide a natural appearance to the home, as this alternative is very environmental friendly. Bamboo is nature gift to man that can be for many purposes. Nowadays, bamboo has become a good alternative for people, as it can be used to manufacture various decorative items. People are now changing their reviews about Hardwood flooring and laminate flooring. Majority of them are now opting for bamboo flooring due to its environmental origins and ever increasing ecological advantage. This is not the only reason for the bamboo floors to become the foremost choice of people, but it also looks very soft and soothing to eyes which offer a great feeling in itself.
Advantages of Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring is becoming more popular due to its nature friendly character. It is the best alternative in place of hardwood flooring as it can handle more pressure than hardwood floors and is much flexible than other floors. Moreover, the main advantage of bamboo flooring is that these floors are natural insect repellants. There are several types of minute insects that make their habitats inside the wood and can prove to be dangerous for the health of people, especially children.
Bamboo floors can be very useful in getting relived in summer evenings and from humidity. So, these are widely used in the areas where humidity content and temperature is higher. This is a natural advantage of bamboo flooring, but apart from this it does not shrinks or swells like other wooden floors. Bamboo flooring leaves no holes or gaps which is helpful in high humidity areas. Several designers are getting fond of this type of flooring due to its unique style, availability and durability. There are two dissimilar variations available with 30 different colors. It can be installed in any type of room and can be used to enhance the interior.
How to protect Bamboo Floors?
There are several ways to protect floors from getting damaged. People should care for their bamboo floors in order to get the best reward from natural gift. One should not allow dust, grit and dirt to enter into the home. Dust in the soles of shoes can be dangerous for bamboo floors but one should keep the wipe mats outside the room to avoid any type of dirt particles. Regularly sweeping with soft broom can be helpful in making the floor shining and clean.
High heels can cause a great damage to the floor, so it is recommended that one should avoid the entrance of high heels or heavy shoes, it can cause dents or damage to the floor. Protective pads placed beneath the base of chair or table to avoid any damage or breaks. One should change their heavy furniture continuously in order to evade discoloration of floor. There are various cleaning products available that are especially made for bamboo floors which can be used to get best results. Direct sunlight can cause heavy damage and may lead to discoloration of these floors. Spills should be cleaned immediately as they are almost impossible to remove after a long delay.
Advantages of Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring is becoming more popular due to its nature friendly character. It is the best alternative in place of hardwood flooring as it can handle more pressure than hardwood floors and is much flexible than other floors. Moreover, the main advantage of bamboo flooring is that these floors are natural insect repellants. There are several types of minute insects that make their habitats inside the wood and can prove to be dangerous for the health of people, especially children.
Bamboo floors can be very useful in getting relived in summer evenings and from humidity. So, these are widely used in the areas where humidity content and temperature is higher. This is a natural advantage of bamboo flooring, but apart from this it does not shrinks or swells like other wooden floors. Bamboo flooring leaves no holes or gaps which is helpful in high humidity areas. Several designers are getting fond of this type of flooring due to its unique style, availability and durability. There are two dissimilar variations available with 30 different colors. It can be installed in any type of room and can be used to enhance the interior.
How to protect Bamboo Floors?
There are several ways to protect floors from getting damaged. People should care for their bamboo floors in order to get the best reward from natural gift. One should not allow dust, grit and dirt to enter into the home. Dust in the soles of shoes can be dangerous for bamboo floors but one should keep the wipe mats outside the room to avoid any type of dirt particles. Regularly sweeping with soft broom can be helpful in making the floor shining and clean.
High heels can cause a great damage to the floor, so it is recommended that one should avoid the entrance of high heels or heavy shoes, it can cause dents or damage to the floor. Protective pads placed beneath the base of chair or table to avoid any damage or breaks. One should change their heavy furniture continuously in order to evade discoloration of floor. There are various cleaning products available that are especially made for bamboo floors which can be used to get best results. Direct sunlight can cause heavy damage and may lead to discoloration of these floors. Spills should be cleaned immediately as they are almost impossible to remove after a long delay.
Tuesday, 3 November 2009
Plank Bamboo Flooring - The Green Flooring Option
Stronger than traditional hardwood, and just as good looking, plank bamboo flooring is fast becoming the favorite option for those who want wooden flooring, but not at the high price. Bamboo flooring can easily be mistaken for wood flooring. A grass that matures in five years, bamboo is a natural flooring option that is eco-friendly, unlike trees that take several years to mature. With its distinct appearance, bamboo also looks very elegant and stylish and depending on the décor, can look quite trendy or antique, just like seasoned wood floors.
With its origins in Asia, bamboo floors for kitchen have been their traditional flooring for centuries. It is abundantly available and is a renewable resource. It lasts long and is not difficult to take care of. Bamboo being a wood derivative has the same appeal as wood flooring but at a far lesser price. This is because bamboo is easier to grow repeatedly, compared to wood or timber.
Plank bamboo flooring has proven itself to be more durable than oak and maple. Unlike wood flooring, bamboo does not easily absorb moisture and is more resistant to getting damaged and this makes it easier to maintain without the use of chemicals that may harm it.
Plank bamboo flooring is made of bamboo strips. These strips are split, and then compacted. After this they are laminated and glued together. A UV coating treatment is given, after which it is glossed and sanded. This is ideal for flooring because the planks are made at high pressure. When these planks are laminated, they become even more durable and resistant to scratches and warping.
With its natural looks, plank bamboo flooring has charming patterns and natural color shades, ranging form light to dark caramel. The bamboo can achieve a dark shade through carbonizing during a pressure steaming process. The colors tend to be inherent in the planks, so the planks usually not need to be stained at the time of refinishing. Most bamboo plank are also available in blue, green, orange etc. at higher costs. In bamboo, you can get unfinished as well as finished planks.
Looking after plank bamboo flooring is simple. It has to be kept free from dust particles. About the only thing to watch out for is discoloration over time. But some people like the way that looks. You can refinish it by applying a de-glosser followed by a fresh coat of finish.
Depending on the manufacturer you go in for, these planks may be available with the prominent bamboo nodes that give the planks their unique appearance. The solid as well as the engineered planks resemble oak flooring and are easy to install. You can install your bamboo planks on an existing concrete flooring by gluing or floating. If there is an existing wood floor, it can be nailed down on it.
With its origins in Asia, bamboo floors for kitchen have been their traditional flooring for centuries. It is abundantly available and is a renewable resource. It lasts long and is not difficult to take care of. Bamboo being a wood derivative has the same appeal as wood flooring but at a far lesser price. This is because bamboo is easier to grow repeatedly, compared to wood or timber.
Plank bamboo flooring has proven itself to be more durable than oak and maple. Unlike wood flooring, bamboo does not easily absorb moisture and is more resistant to getting damaged and this makes it easier to maintain without the use of chemicals that may harm it.
Plank bamboo flooring is made of bamboo strips. These strips are split, and then compacted. After this they are laminated and glued together. A UV coating treatment is given, after which it is glossed and sanded. This is ideal for flooring because the planks are made at high pressure. When these planks are laminated, they become even more durable and resistant to scratches and warping.
With its natural looks, plank bamboo flooring has charming patterns and natural color shades, ranging form light to dark caramel. The bamboo can achieve a dark shade through carbonizing during a pressure steaming process. The colors tend to be inherent in the planks, so the planks usually not need to be stained at the time of refinishing. Most bamboo plank are also available in blue, green, orange etc. at higher costs. In bamboo, you can get unfinished as well as finished planks.
Looking after plank bamboo flooring is simple. It has to be kept free from dust particles. About the only thing to watch out for is discoloration over time. But some people like the way that looks. You can refinish it by applying a de-glosser followed by a fresh coat of finish.
Depending on the manufacturer you go in for, these planks may be available with the prominent bamboo nodes that give the planks their unique appearance. The solid as well as the engineered planks resemble oak flooring and are easy to install. You can install your bamboo planks on an existing concrete flooring by gluing or floating. If there is an existing wood floor, it can be nailed down on it.
Monday, 28 September 2009
Why Choose Bamboo for Your Next Flooring Project?
If you've been searching for a new floor covering recently you may well have come across bamboo flooring. Although a relative newcomer to the flooring scene, bamboo floors are rapidly becoming a favored consumer choice. The reasons for its popularity are many, so read on to discover why you might want to choose bamboo too!
Everyone knows that bamboo is actually a grass, but most people are surprised to hear that its strength surpasses that of some of the typical hardwoods used in flooring manufacture. It also has a number of very similar visual characteristics, can be milled in much the same way as timber and is therefore easily formed into planks just like hardwood floors are.
- An Earth Friendly Option
Nowadays, consumers are more frequently looking to make "Green" home improvements. Bamboo flooring has become a favored option in this regard and has proven itself as a viable and environment friendly alternative to a hard wood floor. With bamboo, there is no need to fell vast areas of centuries old forests and jungles to obtain timber for manufacturing. Bamboo is instead harvested from enormous groves located throughout Asia, where it grows in abundance, and once a bamboo pole is cut it will regenerate itself to again reach maturity within an extremely rapid three to five years.
- Choices Galore
To serve this ever-growing sector of the flooring market, numerous manufacturers, such as Envirochoice, Panda Lumber, Ming Dynasty and Westhollow now produce bamboo flooring in a wide array of stunning color shades and hues including Natural, Carbonized and Dark. To suit those with different visual tastes, grain orientations like Vertical or Horizontal are available in addition to hand scraped planks that display an even more characteristic look. Installation options include nail down for permanent installations or floating planks with snap lock joints that are ideal for those that prefer the Do-It-Yourself approach to installing their floor.
- A Floor That Pays for Itself
Another attraction to bamboo flooring is its price. Although bamboo shares an appearance that is similar to some expensive wooden floorings, it won't cost you anything near what a hardwood floor does. With prices starting at a very affordable $2.00 per square foot, bamboo is certainly an option worthy of further consideration.
Wooden floors have been proven to help increase the value of a home, and bamboo is no exception in this regard. In many instances, bamboo flooring can actually be considered as a purchase that will see a return on investment if the property should be sold. Not selling? Don't worry, you'll have one of the best looking floors in the neighborhood, as well as one that looks a million dollars!
Owners need never worry about bamboo flooring standing the test of time either. Warranties of 25 years are common, and even a Lifetime Warranty is provided by some manufacturers.
With so many great things going for it, isn't time you thought about moving bamboo to the top of your list of flooring choices!
Everyone knows that bamboo is actually a grass, but most people are surprised to hear that its strength surpasses that of some of the typical hardwoods used in flooring manufacture. It also has a number of very similar visual characteristics, can be milled in much the same way as timber and is therefore easily formed into planks just like hardwood floors are.
- An Earth Friendly Option
Nowadays, consumers are more frequently looking to make "Green" home improvements. Bamboo flooring has become a favored option in this regard and has proven itself as a viable and environment friendly alternative to a hard wood floor. With bamboo, there is no need to fell vast areas of centuries old forests and jungles to obtain timber for manufacturing. Bamboo is instead harvested from enormous groves located throughout Asia, where it grows in abundance, and once a bamboo pole is cut it will regenerate itself to again reach maturity within an extremely rapid three to five years.
- Choices Galore
To serve this ever-growing sector of the flooring market, numerous manufacturers, such as Envirochoice, Panda Lumber, Ming Dynasty and Westhollow now produce bamboo flooring in a wide array of stunning color shades and hues including Natural, Carbonized and Dark. To suit those with different visual tastes, grain orientations like Vertical or Horizontal are available in addition to hand scraped planks that display an even more characteristic look. Installation options include nail down for permanent installations or floating planks with snap lock joints that are ideal for those that prefer the Do-It-Yourself approach to installing their floor.
- A Floor That Pays for Itself
Another attraction to bamboo flooring is its price. Although bamboo shares an appearance that is similar to some expensive wooden floorings, it won't cost you anything near what a hardwood floor does. With prices starting at a very affordable $2.00 per square foot, bamboo is certainly an option worthy of further consideration.
Wooden floors have been proven to help increase the value of a home, and bamboo is no exception in this regard. In many instances, bamboo flooring can actually be considered as a purchase that will see a return on investment if the property should be sold. Not selling? Don't worry, you'll have one of the best looking floors in the neighborhood, as well as one that looks a million dollars!
Owners need never worry about bamboo flooring standing the test of time either. Warranties of 25 years are common, and even a Lifetime Warranty is provided by some manufacturers.
With so many great things going for it, isn't time you thought about moving bamboo to the top of your list of flooring choices!
Sunday, 13 September 2009
Bamboo Flooring is a Great Home Option
It may sound a little funny, but it's true. For those who want eye-popping, incredible floors, bamboo is an option that should be taken seriously. No, we're not talking woven together sticks here, either. Good bamboo flooring is a beautiful as any hardwood and comes in as many varieties and styles if not more. Plus, it offers some advantages other products cannot.
Unlike the woven bamboo mats most people think of when bamboo flooring is mentioned, newer products using bamboo have come into the marketplace recently. These flooring types involve the transformation of plain bamboo stalks into a very smooth flooring product that comes in a huge variety of colors and styles. When laid, it resembles any other type of wood flooring, but comes with a large laundry list of advantages over plain oak, maple or pine.
Produced in a similar fashion as hardwood, bamboo comes in short strips, planks and even tiles. It's installed basically the same way any other flooring is, too. It can take on many different colors and designs, too. But the icing on the cake though is the fact bamboo is known not only for looking good, but also for its ability to hold up under some major traffic. These advantages combine to make bamboo perfect for homes, offices and other settings where beauty and an ability to stand up to traffic are needed.
Bamboo has a number of advantages over other types of flooring. Here are some of the main ones:
* Weather tolerance: Unlike traditional hardwoods, bamboo can handle humidity and moisture changes like a champ. It's ability to withstand water without expanding or contracting gives it a distinct advantage over other kinds of wood flooring that can be destroyed by water. It's even considered more stable than oak. * Hardness quality. When properly crafted, bamboo flooring is considered harder than maple and even oak. This adds to its ability to withstand years and years of traffic. * Durability. Bamboo's unique properties make it stain, scratch and fade resistant. Plus, it stands up to serious traffic and more. The toughness of the product helps it resist things that can destroy regular wood floors and especially carpeting. This means less of a need for replacement, which means a huge cost savings over the long run. * Great for those with allergies. Unlike carpets, bamboo doesn't hold in dust and dirt. This can help keep a home a bit more allergen free, which is great news for those who suffer from allergies. * Environmental: Trees are not cut down to create bamboo floors. Bamboo grows, literally, like weeds in numerous locations around the world. It is able to reproduce and grow quickly, which means the supply is more prevalent and forests don't have to be destroyed to make a floor. * Maintenance. Considering its natural properties, it's easy to see this flooring is simple to care for. It can be vacuumed just like a carpet or dusted with any spills wiped up.
Bamboo flooring is not a new concept, but recent advances in making it have added this flooring option to the mainstream. Considering its advantages, it is worth major consideration when new flooring is needed. Few products can come close to comparing with the benefits bamboo offers.
Unlike the woven bamboo mats most people think of when bamboo flooring is mentioned, newer products using bamboo have come into the marketplace recently. These flooring types involve the transformation of plain bamboo stalks into a very smooth flooring product that comes in a huge variety of colors and styles. When laid, it resembles any other type of wood flooring, but comes with a large laundry list of advantages over plain oak, maple or pine.
Produced in a similar fashion as hardwood, bamboo comes in short strips, planks and even tiles. It's installed basically the same way any other flooring is, too. It can take on many different colors and designs, too. But the icing on the cake though is the fact bamboo is known not only for looking good, but also for its ability to hold up under some major traffic. These advantages combine to make bamboo perfect for homes, offices and other settings where beauty and an ability to stand up to traffic are needed.
Bamboo has a number of advantages over other types of flooring. Here are some of the main ones:
* Weather tolerance: Unlike traditional hardwoods, bamboo can handle humidity and moisture changes like a champ. It's ability to withstand water without expanding or contracting gives it a distinct advantage over other kinds of wood flooring that can be destroyed by water. It's even considered more stable than oak. * Hardness quality. When properly crafted, bamboo flooring is considered harder than maple and even oak. This adds to its ability to withstand years and years of traffic. * Durability. Bamboo's unique properties make it stain, scratch and fade resistant. Plus, it stands up to serious traffic and more. The toughness of the product helps it resist things that can destroy regular wood floors and especially carpeting. This means less of a need for replacement, which means a huge cost savings over the long run. * Great for those with allergies. Unlike carpets, bamboo doesn't hold in dust and dirt. This can help keep a home a bit more allergen free, which is great news for those who suffer from allergies. * Environmental: Trees are not cut down to create bamboo floors. Bamboo grows, literally, like weeds in numerous locations around the world. It is able to reproduce and grow quickly, which means the supply is more prevalent and forests don't have to be destroyed to make a floor. * Maintenance. Considering its natural properties, it's easy to see this flooring is simple to care for. It can be vacuumed just like a carpet or dusted with any spills wiped up.
Bamboo flooring is not a new concept, but recent advances in making it have added this flooring option to the mainstream. Considering its advantages, it is worth major consideration when new flooring is needed. Few products can come close to comparing with the benefits bamboo offers.
Wednesday, 29 July 2009
Bamboo Flooring Will Make Your Home A Home
Bamboo might seem like a wood, but it actually belongs to the grass family and is one of the rapid growing species in the world. Bamboo flooring is now becoming common among many countries because of its diverse advantages. In view of the fact that bamboo is eco-friendly, it can adjust to the changing environments anywhere in the world. The special attribute of bamboo is that it can lower the intensity of light and can protect us from ultra violet rays. Hence bamboo can also be called as an atmospheric and soil purifier. Bamboo flooring could be found common in an average sparkling honey brown shade or in light tan normal shade. People nowadays are changing their hardwood flooring to bamboo flooring because of its attractive color, design and other price advantages.
If you are a person interested in making your home to look natural, then bamboo flooring is the best and the cost effective choice. Bamboo floorings are available in different lengths and could be purchased either in the market or online. The dealers who are selling bamboo flooring these days are also giving option for you to select the best design to shape on your flooring. Since bamboos are flexible they are also used to make both aesthetic items and other pleasing decorative items that are environment friendly. Hence to prevent the increasing environmental issues bamboo floorings would be the ideal choices that are now available to decorate homes or business places. The days of using traditional hardwood flooring is becoming extinct nowadays, because of these bamboo floorings.
Just like buying branded and durable bamboo flooring is vital, maintaining bamboo floorings is also very essential. Bamboo floorings don't require frequent usage of polishers and other cleaning solutions like other hardwood floorings. In general, the color of the bamboo flooring is directly proportional to the amount of time required to process it. It is advisable not to install bamboo floorings, in bathrooms or in other areas of your home and office. Since these areas are prone to dampness, the bamboo flooring could be easily deformed or damaged. When buying bamboo floorings and hardwood floorings it could be witnessed in some cases that the bamboo floorings would cost less compared to other floorings. The labor cost can also be found almost the same. As the installation techniques are almost the same for hardwood flooring as well as bamboo flooring, it is relatively easy and it could be seen that most of the hardwood flooring installing experts have now started to install bamboo flooring too.
Bamboo has become one of the hottest trends among Americans and European nowadays. Soon it is expected to become the common flooring across the globe. It has also started captivating the hearts of millions because of its beauty, durability and eco friendly nature.
If you are a person interested in making your home to look natural, then bamboo flooring is the best and the cost effective choice. Bamboo floorings are available in different lengths and could be purchased either in the market or online. The dealers who are selling bamboo flooring these days are also giving option for you to select the best design to shape on your flooring. Since bamboos are flexible they are also used to make both aesthetic items and other pleasing decorative items that are environment friendly. Hence to prevent the increasing environmental issues bamboo floorings would be the ideal choices that are now available to decorate homes or business places. The days of using traditional hardwood flooring is becoming extinct nowadays, because of these bamboo floorings.
Just like buying branded and durable bamboo flooring is vital, maintaining bamboo floorings is also very essential. Bamboo floorings don't require frequent usage of polishers and other cleaning solutions like other hardwood floorings. In general, the color of the bamboo flooring is directly proportional to the amount of time required to process it. It is advisable not to install bamboo floorings, in bathrooms or in other areas of your home and office. Since these areas are prone to dampness, the bamboo flooring could be easily deformed or damaged. When buying bamboo floorings and hardwood floorings it could be witnessed in some cases that the bamboo floorings would cost less compared to other floorings. The labor cost can also be found almost the same. As the installation techniques are almost the same for hardwood flooring as well as bamboo flooring, it is relatively easy and it could be seen that most of the hardwood flooring installing experts have now started to install bamboo flooring too.
Bamboo has become one of the hottest trends among Americans and European nowadays. Soon it is expected to become the common flooring across the globe. It has also started captivating the hearts of millions because of its beauty, durability and eco friendly nature.
Saturday, 18 July 2009
Bamboo Flooring for a Negotiable Bamboo Flooring Prices
If you are planning on a total make-over for your house and in the process changing its flooring
, you can have a lot of options to choose from. You can completely change the material of your existing tile or you may just change the color of your tiles only. But then, you might think of trying bamboo flooring
instead. Bamboo floors are so far the highly recommended material in today’s home furnishing
industry. They are created out of a bamboo plant and the product has originated from some parts of Asia, but most often, they come from China. “Moso” is the common specie of bamboo that is used for flooring.
Bamboo floorings are of different forms and depending on its variety will be the corresponding bamboo flooring prices. Each of the bamboo flooring varies in terms of its manufacturing process. Aside from this, they may also differ primarily on where and how it is being marketed. Bamboo flooring prices is totally dependent on its origin, as well as the quality of the bamboo itself.
In the Southeast Asia, the bamboo flooring comes from thin bamboo stems which are cut into a flat form. The bamboos are cut as flat as possible and they are cut into uniform lengths. This type of bamboo flooring can be used as is, with its natural color, or it may also be stained, dyed or varnished. The bamboo flooring of this type is usually nailed to bigger bamboo stems or to wooden beams, resulting in more spaces in between the bamboo flooring. This is recommended for use on stilted houses, for a better circulation of air, especially for warm summers.
In the North America, a different processing technique is used for bamboo flooring. This is to complement the weather of the countries in this part also. The manufactured products are highly processed. The bamboo stems used comes from bigger bamboo stems. They are split into uniform width and lengths, and then they are flattened. Further processing is done, by drying it and then laminating it with the use of layers of glue in high pressure.
From the process itself, you will now have an idea how much the bamboo flooring prices will be. The longer and finer the processing will be, the higher will be its price range, notwithstanding the quality of the product, too.
Bamboo floorings are also available depending on its grain orientation. The pieces of woods may be either in horizontal or in vertical. Horizontal bamboo flooring contains slats that are horizontally arranged on its widest edge. They are then joined on its sides with adjoining pieces with the aid of a laminate system coupled with a high pressure. The finished look of the bamboo flooring is one where the bamboo nodes are not that visible.
For bamboo flooring with vertical grain orientation, each piece is laminated side to side on its narrowest edge. The overall effect of this type is a uniform look right to the surface of the finished bamboo flooring.
Bamboo flooring prices will again depend on its installation procedure. Installing locking bamboo flooring is easier since each piece has an interlocking joint that can simply be fixed in place. If installation is fast and easy, then there is no need for a highly equipped installer. The bamboo flooring prices will then be lower.
, you can have a lot of options to choose from. You can completely change the material of your existing tile or you may just change the color of your tiles only. But then, you might think of trying bamboo flooring
instead. Bamboo floors are so far the highly recommended material in today’s home furnishing
industry. They are created out of a bamboo plant and the product has originated from some parts of Asia, but most often, they come from China. “Moso” is the common specie of bamboo that is used for flooring.
Bamboo floorings are of different forms and depending on its variety will be the corresponding bamboo flooring prices. Each of the bamboo flooring varies in terms of its manufacturing process. Aside from this, they may also differ primarily on where and how it is being marketed. Bamboo flooring prices is totally dependent on its origin, as well as the quality of the bamboo itself.
In the Southeast Asia, the bamboo flooring comes from thin bamboo stems which are cut into a flat form. The bamboos are cut as flat as possible and they are cut into uniform lengths. This type of bamboo flooring can be used as is, with its natural color, or it may also be stained, dyed or varnished. The bamboo flooring of this type is usually nailed to bigger bamboo stems or to wooden beams, resulting in more spaces in between the bamboo flooring. This is recommended for use on stilted houses, for a better circulation of air, especially for warm summers.
In the North America, a different processing technique is used for bamboo flooring. This is to complement the weather of the countries in this part also. The manufactured products are highly processed. The bamboo stems used comes from bigger bamboo stems. They are split into uniform width and lengths, and then they are flattened. Further processing is done, by drying it and then laminating it with the use of layers of glue in high pressure.
From the process itself, you will now have an idea how much the bamboo flooring prices will be. The longer and finer the processing will be, the higher will be its price range, notwithstanding the quality of the product, too.
Bamboo floorings are also available depending on its grain orientation. The pieces of woods may be either in horizontal or in vertical. Horizontal bamboo flooring contains slats that are horizontally arranged on its widest edge. They are then joined on its sides with adjoining pieces with the aid of a laminate system coupled with a high pressure. The finished look of the bamboo flooring is one where the bamboo nodes are not that visible.
For bamboo flooring with vertical grain orientation, each piece is laminated side to side on its narrowest edge. The overall effect of this type is a uniform look right to the surface of the finished bamboo flooring.
Bamboo flooring prices will again depend on its installation procedure. Installing locking bamboo flooring is easier since each piece has an interlocking joint that can simply be fixed in place. If installation is fast and easy, then there is no need for a highly equipped installer. The bamboo flooring prices will then be lower.
Tuesday, 16 June 2009
Bamboo Laminate Flooring, the Perfect Alternative
If you’re looking for a modern and a cheap flooring solution, then the best option for you is definitely the laminate floor. The bamboo laminate flooring, for instance, is very popular, especially in Europe, due to the fact that it offers the impression of real wood flooring, and mainly because it is very cost-efficient.
Although it is quite difficult to even compare hardwood flooring with the laminate flooring, there are plenty of providers that create high quality laminate flooring that can compete with the real hardwood flooring. One type of high quality flooring is the bamboo laminate flooring. This type of laminate flooring is highly appreciated because it is the perfect alternative to its much more expensive counterpart, the real bamboo flooring.
What Are the Advantages of Using Laminate Flooring?
First of all, as I mentioned above, it is obviously much cheaper than the real hardwood flooring. Second of all, the laminate flooring is maintained clean very easily because it is extremely resistant to the external damage. This is a very important aspect, especially if you have pets or children in your house.
In case you have chosen simple laminate flooring or bamboo laminate flooring, you have to also take into consideration these practical aspects. The laminate flooring is resistant to scratches and it is easy to be maintained, things which makes it the perfect choice both for your household and for your office or your place of work. Moreover, the laminate flooring is easy to install and, as concerning the aesthetic aspect, it is much similar to the hardwood flooring.
Everybody prefers cheaper flooring. Nowadays, the popular laminated flooring is in competition with the oak flooring or the bamboo laminate flooring, because it is the price that makes the difference. The designers recommend for the modern interior designs the ‘warm’ flooring, including the laminate flooring.
In fact, laminate flooring is not real parquet because it is made of a ‘photo’ that usually imitates a species of wood and that is applied over a mixture of wood - but this doesn’t lower its quality. The laminate flooring is really resistant and it is usually used in spaces with high traffic, such as the commercial places. It is very important that the laminate flooring is applied correctly, because otherwise the flooring will not last for too long.
Why Do Customers Prefer Bamboo Laminate Flooring?
The high demands in the domain of the bamboo laminate flooring are justified by its low costs and because this type of laminate flooring is already finalized, it is durable and refined. The bamboo laminate flooring is brought to the merchandisers from countries like Zaire, Mozambique, Tanzania or Congo. All high quality laminate flooring, especially the one made of exotic wood, have as a source the original country. No bamboo ‘photo’ is to be created or man-made. This is a very important aspect for the quality of the finite product.
Undoubtedly, the bamboo laminate flooring is one of the best sold products in this industry, due to the very obvious reasons that I mentioned above. Besides the cost-related aspects that regard the purchasing of bamboo laminate flooring, most buyers choose it as the perfect replacement for the ‘real’ thing, the genuine wood. This is the best alternative if you can not afford to buy real wood, but if you still wish to offer your room the aspect of natural materials.
Although it is quite difficult to even compare hardwood flooring with the laminate flooring, there are plenty of providers that create high quality laminate flooring that can compete with the real hardwood flooring. One type of high quality flooring is the bamboo laminate flooring. This type of laminate flooring is highly appreciated because it is the perfect alternative to its much more expensive counterpart, the real bamboo flooring.
What Are the Advantages of Using Laminate Flooring?
First of all, as I mentioned above, it is obviously much cheaper than the real hardwood flooring. Second of all, the laminate flooring is maintained clean very easily because it is extremely resistant to the external damage. This is a very important aspect, especially if you have pets or children in your house.
In case you have chosen simple laminate flooring or bamboo laminate flooring, you have to also take into consideration these practical aspects. The laminate flooring is resistant to scratches and it is easy to be maintained, things which makes it the perfect choice both for your household and for your office or your place of work. Moreover, the laminate flooring is easy to install and, as concerning the aesthetic aspect, it is much similar to the hardwood flooring.
Everybody prefers cheaper flooring. Nowadays, the popular laminated flooring is in competition with the oak flooring or the bamboo laminate flooring, because it is the price that makes the difference. The designers recommend for the modern interior designs the ‘warm’ flooring, including the laminate flooring.
In fact, laminate flooring is not real parquet because it is made of a ‘photo’ that usually imitates a species of wood and that is applied over a mixture of wood - but this doesn’t lower its quality. The laminate flooring is really resistant and it is usually used in spaces with high traffic, such as the commercial places. It is very important that the laminate flooring is applied correctly, because otherwise the flooring will not last for too long.
Why Do Customers Prefer Bamboo Laminate Flooring?
The high demands in the domain of the bamboo laminate flooring are justified by its low costs and because this type of laminate flooring is already finalized, it is durable and refined. The bamboo laminate flooring is brought to the merchandisers from countries like Zaire, Mozambique, Tanzania or Congo. All high quality laminate flooring, especially the one made of exotic wood, have as a source the original country. No bamboo ‘photo’ is to be created or man-made. This is a very important aspect for the quality of the finite product.
Undoubtedly, the bamboo laminate flooring is one of the best sold products in this industry, due to the very obvious reasons that I mentioned above. Besides the cost-related aspects that regard the purchasing of bamboo laminate flooring, most buyers choose it as the perfect replacement for the ‘real’ thing, the genuine wood. This is the best alternative if you can not afford to buy real wood, but if you still wish to offer your room the aspect of natural materials.
Monday, 1 June 2009
The Range of Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo is becoming a very popular choice for flooring. There are many different varieties available with a wide range of prices. Bamboo's reputation as a durable, ecologically friendly material that's quick to renew itself makes it a great option for many people. However, not all bamboo flooring is created equal. That's why you'll see many different prices and qualities of flooring on the market.
Here's some information to help you choose between them.
*If you're interested in bamboo flooring, it's important to know as much as possible about it. While bamboo can be produced in a sustainable and non polluting way, not every farmer is doing so. Some people are growing bamboo with large amounts of unnecessary fertilisers and pesticides, which can pollute the environment and endanger animals. Also, labour practices on some bamboo plantations are problematic.
*However, a large amount of bamboo being produced for flooring is also being grown responsibly. That means that if you're concerned about the impact and ethics of your bamboo flooring, a little bit of research ought to tell you whether or not the product you're considering is worthwhile. Check to see if there's a stamp from a certifying organisation to tell you that your flooring has been grown using sustainable management.
*Bamboo flooring can also range in hardness and colour. Unlike wood, which is tinted or dyed, bamboo is treated with heat to obtain darker colours. The darker the colour, the softer the bamboo will be, though it's still harder than many hardwoods. If hardness is an issue, lighter bamboos will be a better choice.
*Bamboo floor construction can also be variable. Look for flooring that's made using the lowest number of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and which uses glues that contain no formaldehyde. These glues are better for your health, as well as for the environment and make bamboo flooring part of a healthier, more sustainable home. Look for non toxic, environmentally friendly finishes, too.
*Because of the structure of bamboo, there are no solid bamboo floors. They come in either laminated pieces or as part of an engineered floor. The thickness of the bamboo layer on engineered laminates can vary. There are also manufactured tongue and groove bamboo products made from bamboo flooring waste. Colours range between natural and dark amber, because of carbonisation. Various types of bamboo flooring are installed in different ways. Some are glued, while others are nailed and there are even some floating types of bamboo floor.
When looking for a quality bamboo floor, pay attention to how long the maker has been in business. Longer is usually a sign of better practices and higher quality. Local companies may also be a benefit, as they allow you to track the manufacturing of your flooring better and to deal with damage issues if they arise. Avoid extremely low priced floors, because paying a little extra will get you a higher quality floor that meets more environmental guidelines. As bamboo flooring gets more popular, more and more options appear on the market. Knowing as much as you can about the product and its manufacturing process ensures that you'll get the floor you want for a fair price.
Here's some information to help you choose between them.
*If you're interested in bamboo flooring, it's important to know as much as possible about it. While bamboo can be produced in a sustainable and non polluting way, not every farmer is doing so. Some people are growing bamboo with large amounts of unnecessary fertilisers and pesticides, which can pollute the environment and endanger animals. Also, labour practices on some bamboo plantations are problematic.
*However, a large amount of bamboo being produced for flooring is also being grown responsibly. That means that if you're concerned about the impact and ethics of your bamboo flooring, a little bit of research ought to tell you whether or not the product you're considering is worthwhile. Check to see if there's a stamp from a certifying organisation to tell you that your flooring has been grown using sustainable management.
*Bamboo flooring can also range in hardness and colour. Unlike wood, which is tinted or dyed, bamboo is treated with heat to obtain darker colours. The darker the colour, the softer the bamboo will be, though it's still harder than many hardwoods. If hardness is an issue, lighter bamboos will be a better choice.
*Bamboo floor construction can also be variable. Look for flooring that's made using the lowest number of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and which uses glues that contain no formaldehyde. These glues are better for your health, as well as for the environment and make bamboo flooring part of a healthier, more sustainable home. Look for non toxic, environmentally friendly finishes, too.
*Because of the structure of bamboo, there are no solid bamboo floors. They come in either laminated pieces or as part of an engineered floor. The thickness of the bamboo layer on engineered laminates can vary. There are also manufactured tongue and groove bamboo products made from bamboo flooring waste. Colours range between natural and dark amber, because of carbonisation. Various types of bamboo flooring are installed in different ways. Some are glued, while others are nailed and there are even some floating types of bamboo floor.
When looking for a quality bamboo floor, pay attention to how long the maker has been in business. Longer is usually a sign of better practices and higher quality. Local companies may also be a benefit, as they allow you to track the manufacturing of your flooring better and to deal with damage issues if they arise. Avoid extremely low priced floors, because paying a little extra will get you a higher quality floor that meets more environmental guidelines. As bamboo flooring gets more popular, more and more options appear on the market. Knowing as much as you can about the product and its manufacturing process ensures that you'll get the floor you want for a fair price.
Sunday, 12 April 2009
Improving the Value of your Home With Bamboo Flooring
If you are looking to increase the value of your home, replacing old carpets or tile with a beautifully laid bamboo floor will certainly help. And if your home isn’t up for resell and you just want to have beautiful flooring, using bamboo is an elegant and affordable way to go.
Bamboo flooring may only be a little over ten years old, but its beauty and environmental factors have spoken for itself. And, floor experts have discovered that bamboo is actually harder than hardwoods such as Maple and Oak. Not only that, bamboo is extremely eco-friendly, and stands up the look, feel, sound, and warmth of its hardwood peers.
When we think of bamboo, we see reeds of tall grasses growing in tropical locations. So how does a grass become transformed into a wood floor? For starters, only a particular type of Bamboo is used, most often the Moso variety. Once Moso poles reach 40 to 50 feet in height, they are harvested and dried. The drying process is slow, typically four years in the sun. The bamboo is then sliced into thin uniform strips and planed on all sides. The pieces are converted into flooring made of either two or three layered horizontal or vertical laminated pieces. Bamboo can either be nailed to a wood subfloor or glued directly to a concrete sub-floor. Floating is not recommended. There is a variety of moldings made available as well to hide expansion gaps and for staircases.
Bamboo flooring comes in a variety of colors. Pretreated, coloring choices are natural and smoky amber. If the product comes to the states untreated, stains can vary from pinks to a variety of browns. Because bamboo is a grass rather than a tree, its finished appearance is very distinctive. Most distinctive is the eye-catching pattern of slightly darker bands produced by its nodes – a feature that clearly sets it apart from wood. Bamboo’s other aesthetic features include the tightness of its grain and the uniformity of its color.
These untreated and stained pieces of bamboo flooring are then given a final coating, typically made up of an aluminum oxide and polyurethane scratch-resistant topcoat. Coatings can be matte or glossy, with glossy tending to scratch more easily than matte.
Bamboo’s popularity has continued to grow with its discovery. The fact that it is a grass, a quickly renewable resource that yields a product 25 times faster than timber, has been of primary interest to the environmentally conscious. The beauty is an added bonus. With the cost of bamboo equivalent to oak flooring, it isn’t hard on the pocketbook either. Bamboo is also easy to clean and considered ideal for allergy sufferers, as they do not harbor dust mites.
When cleaning bamboo, a soft touch is best to prevent minute scratches on the surface. A padded cleaning head on your vacuum cleaner or a damp mop is most appropriate. This method will keep dust and debris from accumulating and scratching your bamboo floor. You should also take care never to over wet your bamboo floor. While it is resistant to moisture due to its tropical origins, it is best to minimize moisture exposure to help preserve the material. Mop spills using a damp cloth and dry immediately.
Putting area rugs on pathways that may experience high traffic. This keeps the bamboo floor from scuffing due to the high amount of traffic in a certain area. To prevent dirt and other debris from coming onto the floor from the outside, place exterior mats in entryways. Gravel and debris stuck in the bottom of shoes may scratch the finish of your bamboo floor.
If you have pets, remember to regularly trim your pets' nails to prevent them from scratching and gouging the bamboo floor. And of course, when moving furniture from one place to another, lift them instead of dragging them along the floor.
So if you are ready to transform the look of your home, putting in bamboo flooring will give you a huge start.
Bamboo flooring may only be a little over ten years old, but its beauty and environmental factors have spoken for itself. And, floor experts have discovered that bamboo is actually harder than hardwoods such as Maple and Oak. Not only that, bamboo is extremely eco-friendly, and stands up the look, feel, sound, and warmth of its hardwood peers.
When we think of bamboo, we see reeds of tall grasses growing in tropical locations. So how does a grass become transformed into a wood floor? For starters, only a particular type of Bamboo is used, most often the Moso variety. Once Moso poles reach 40 to 50 feet in height, they are harvested and dried. The drying process is slow, typically four years in the sun. The bamboo is then sliced into thin uniform strips and planed on all sides. The pieces are converted into flooring made of either two or three layered horizontal or vertical laminated pieces. Bamboo can either be nailed to a wood subfloor or glued directly to a concrete sub-floor. Floating is not recommended. There is a variety of moldings made available as well to hide expansion gaps and for staircases.
Bamboo flooring comes in a variety of colors. Pretreated, coloring choices are natural and smoky amber. If the product comes to the states untreated, stains can vary from pinks to a variety of browns. Because bamboo is a grass rather than a tree, its finished appearance is very distinctive. Most distinctive is the eye-catching pattern of slightly darker bands produced by its nodes – a feature that clearly sets it apart from wood. Bamboo’s other aesthetic features include the tightness of its grain and the uniformity of its color.
These untreated and stained pieces of bamboo flooring are then given a final coating, typically made up of an aluminum oxide and polyurethane scratch-resistant topcoat. Coatings can be matte or glossy, with glossy tending to scratch more easily than matte.
Bamboo’s popularity has continued to grow with its discovery. The fact that it is a grass, a quickly renewable resource that yields a product 25 times faster than timber, has been of primary interest to the environmentally conscious. The beauty is an added bonus. With the cost of bamboo equivalent to oak flooring, it isn’t hard on the pocketbook either. Bamboo is also easy to clean and considered ideal for allergy sufferers, as they do not harbor dust mites.
When cleaning bamboo, a soft touch is best to prevent minute scratches on the surface. A padded cleaning head on your vacuum cleaner or a damp mop is most appropriate. This method will keep dust and debris from accumulating and scratching your bamboo floor. You should also take care never to over wet your bamboo floor. While it is resistant to moisture due to its tropical origins, it is best to minimize moisture exposure to help preserve the material. Mop spills using a damp cloth and dry immediately.
Putting area rugs on pathways that may experience high traffic. This keeps the bamboo floor from scuffing due to the high amount of traffic in a certain area. To prevent dirt and other debris from coming onto the floor from the outside, place exterior mats in entryways. Gravel and debris stuck in the bottom of shoes may scratch the finish of your bamboo floor.
If you have pets, remember to regularly trim your pets' nails to prevent them from scratching and gouging the bamboo floor. And of course, when moving furniture from one place to another, lift them instead of dragging them along the floor.
So if you are ready to transform the look of your home, putting in bamboo flooring will give you a huge start.
Saturday, 4 April 2009
How To Install Bamboo Flooring Over A Wood Sub-Floor
Please note, because of the differences in installation methods, this article covers installation over a wood sub-floor. This article also assumes you have selected your grain and color of flooring.
Tools Required:
1. Chalk Line
2. Rubber Mallet
3. Hand Saw
4. Plastic or Wooden Spacers (1/4”)
5. Pneumatic Flooring Package (air compressor and hose, gun mallet and staples)
Note: This package can be rented at most rental centers. Make sure you get the correct staples for the gun. The staples may look alike, but it is important to get the proper gauge that fits the gun.
Preparation:
Remove shoe moldings and make sure the sub-floor is even, clean, dry and smooth. Sanding may be necessary in order to obtain smooth, even surface. If sanding is needed, make sure the floor is completely cleaned of dust and debris afterward. Also, if you notice any floor squeaks, correct them now by securing the sub-floor to the joists as needed. Door jambs may also need to be cut so planks will fit under them to create a finished look. Simply place a piece of flooring against the jamb, mark it and cut the jamb at the line.
Once you have received your flooring, it must first be allowed to acclimate itself in the room in which it will be installed. Flooring should be removed from its boxes and stored in the room it will be installed in for a minimum of two days, preferably three to five days before installation. This will let the floor adjust to the room’s humidity and temperature. Because of natural variations in the flooring, it is recommended you layout the planks to get an idea of how you want them arranged before making any cuts or nailing any boards down.
Installation:
It is recommended that you install flooring parallel with the longest wall of the room for the best visual effect. Measure the width of a plank from this wall and add 1/4” to the measurement. Next, at this spot, snap a chalk line across the room to mark where you will begin flooring. This 1/4” is important to provide expansion/contraction room for the flooring.
Arrange the first row with the groove for the flooring facing the wall. Also, begin placing spacers between the flooring and the wall. Spacers should be inserted approximately every 12 inches and at each joist. This gives you a firm base to install against, but ensures you maintain your 1/4” gap. This starter row should be nailed to the flooring joists underneath the sub-floor. The edge of the flooring which faces the wall (groove edge) may be face nailed since it will be covered by shoe molding after installation. The other edge should be secured by blind nailing with the pneumatic gun approximately every ten inches, no closer than 6 inches. Also avoid nailing to close to the end of a board to avoid splitting the board.
As you begin your next row, make sure your board joints are staggered. In other words, no two ends of adjacent rows should meet. You can achieve this by cutting off 6-8 inches of the first board in your next row. This varying board length is not only for visual effect, but is also essential so as not to weaken the floor.
Tip: Make sure you match tongue to groove as you lay each row. Otherwise you will create very unsightly gaps and an uneven floor. Also, use a scrap piece of floor braced against the piece you are installing and tap against the scrap piece with the rubber mallet to work the flooring into place.
On the last row, blind nailing by hand will be necessary since the pneumatic gun will not fit. As a last resort, the last row can be face nailed in lieu of blind nailing.
Finishing Up:
Once all the flooring is has been laid, replace the shoe moldings and give the floor a final sweep up. Now it’s time to bring back in furniture, rugs, etc. and your room remodel is complete.
Tools Required:
1. Chalk Line
2. Rubber Mallet
3. Hand Saw
4. Plastic or Wooden Spacers (1/4”)
5. Pneumatic Flooring Package (air compressor and hose, gun mallet and staples)
Note: This package can be rented at most rental centers. Make sure you get the correct staples for the gun. The staples may look alike, but it is important to get the proper gauge that fits the gun.
Preparation:
Remove shoe moldings and make sure the sub-floor is even, clean, dry and smooth. Sanding may be necessary in order to obtain smooth, even surface. If sanding is needed, make sure the floor is completely cleaned of dust and debris afterward. Also, if you notice any floor squeaks, correct them now by securing the sub-floor to the joists as needed. Door jambs may also need to be cut so planks will fit under them to create a finished look. Simply place a piece of flooring against the jamb, mark it and cut the jamb at the line.
Once you have received your flooring, it must first be allowed to acclimate itself in the room in which it will be installed. Flooring should be removed from its boxes and stored in the room it will be installed in for a minimum of two days, preferably three to five days before installation. This will let the floor adjust to the room’s humidity and temperature. Because of natural variations in the flooring, it is recommended you layout the planks to get an idea of how you want them arranged before making any cuts or nailing any boards down.
Installation:
It is recommended that you install flooring parallel with the longest wall of the room for the best visual effect. Measure the width of a plank from this wall and add 1/4” to the measurement. Next, at this spot, snap a chalk line across the room to mark where you will begin flooring. This 1/4” is important to provide expansion/contraction room for the flooring.
Arrange the first row with the groove for the flooring facing the wall. Also, begin placing spacers between the flooring and the wall. Spacers should be inserted approximately every 12 inches and at each joist. This gives you a firm base to install against, but ensures you maintain your 1/4” gap. This starter row should be nailed to the flooring joists underneath the sub-floor. The edge of the flooring which faces the wall (groove edge) may be face nailed since it will be covered by shoe molding after installation. The other edge should be secured by blind nailing with the pneumatic gun approximately every ten inches, no closer than 6 inches. Also avoid nailing to close to the end of a board to avoid splitting the board.
As you begin your next row, make sure your board joints are staggered. In other words, no two ends of adjacent rows should meet. You can achieve this by cutting off 6-8 inches of the first board in your next row. This varying board length is not only for visual effect, but is also essential so as not to weaken the floor.
Tip: Make sure you match tongue to groove as you lay each row. Otherwise you will create very unsightly gaps and an uneven floor. Also, use a scrap piece of floor braced against the piece you are installing and tap against the scrap piece with the rubber mallet to work the flooring into place.
On the last row, blind nailing by hand will be necessary since the pneumatic gun will not fit. As a last resort, the last row can be face nailed in lieu of blind nailing.
Finishing Up:
Once all the flooring is has been laid, replace the shoe moldings and give the floor a final sweep up. Now it’s time to bring back in furniture, rugs, etc. and your room remodel is complete.
Tuesday, 31 March 2009
Going Green With Bamboo Floors
Are you environmentally conscious? More and more people are these days, and that's caused an explosion in the popularity of bamboo flooring.
Bamboo is like a hardwood, but is not a wood at all. As a hollow-grass, it is considered a renewable resource because it grows rapidly, replenishing itself. Bamboo can reach maturity in 5-6 years, growing to 80 feet in height. Considered environmentally friendly, many people are taking a whole new look at bamboo flooring.
Did you know that bamboo is the fastest growing woody plant on this planet. Some species of bamboo can grow as much as 1 meter per day.
For the environmentally conscious, bamboo is critical in emitting oxygen in to the atmosphere; generating more oxygen than an equivalent stand of trees does. As the fastest growing canopy, bamboo lowers light intensity and protects against ultraviolet rays, while acting as an atmospheric and soil purifier. Simply put, bamboo is a plentiful natural resource and a viable alternative to deforestation of the world's trees. Choose a bamboo floor and you are helping to curb the problem of global warming.
Bamboo a Practical Flooring
Bamboo floors have a similar hardness to any hardwood floor. When bamboo goes through the manufacturing process to become flooring, the bamboo becomes hard enough to be made into solid and engineered floor planks. You would consider installing bamboo flooring in any similar location that would be good for wood floors.
Just like wood, bamboo will scratch. So, look for bamboo flooring with a solid finish on it for durability.
And just like wood, bamboo flooring can be stained. Although many people leave their bamboo floors natural preferring the lighter blonde coloring that the naturally milled bamboo offers. Keep in mind, that just like woods all stain differently, so it's also true with bamboo. So, expect some variation in your plank colorings.
Bamboo flooring comes in both a vertical and horizontal graining pattern. Check for samples to see which style you prefer ... with the grain or cross-grain cuts. The grain patterns are very different from each other, so be sure you choose the bamboo cut that is right for you.
Installing your Bamboo Floor
Bamboo can be glued to concrete slabs, stapled to wood sub-floors, and floated over most existing floor coverings. Anything you can do with wood flooring, you can do with bamboo flooring. Bamboo floors are also available in floating floor styles as well.
Installing your bamboo floor is much the same processes as with conventional hardwood flooring. The type of bamboo flooring you pick will dictate the installation process. Want to learn more about the types of bamboo floors available, visit www.FastFloors.com.
Bamboo is like a hardwood, but is not a wood at all. As a hollow-grass, it is considered a renewable resource because it grows rapidly, replenishing itself. Bamboo can reach maturity in 5-6 years, growing to 80 feet in height. Considered environmentally friendly, many people are taking a whole new look at bamboo flooring.
Did you know that bamboo is the fastest growing woody plant on this planet. Some species of bamboo can grow as much as 1 meter per day.
For the environmentally conscious, bamboo is critical in emitting oxygen in to the atmosphere; generating more oxygen than an equivalent stand of trees does. As the fastest growing canopy, bamboo lowers light intensity and protects against ultraviolet rays, while acting as an atmospheric and soil purifier. Simply put, bamboo is a plentiful natural resource and a viable alternative to deforestation of the world's trees. Choose a bamboo floor and you are helping to curb the problem of global warming.
Bamboo a Practical Flooring
Bamboo floors have a similar hardness to any hardwood floor. When bamboo goes through the manufacturing process to become flooring, the bamboo becomes hard enough to be made into solid and engineered floor planks. You would consider installing bamboo flooring in any similar location that would be good for wood floors.
Just like wood, bamboo will scratch. So, look for bamboo flooring with a solid finish on it for durability.
And just like wood, bamboo flooring can be stained. Although many people leave their bamboo floors natural preferring the lighter blonde coloring that the naturally milled bamboo offers. Keep in mind, that just like woods all stain differently, so it's also true with bamboo. So, expect some variation in your plank colorings.
Bamboo flooring comes in both a vertical and horizontal graining pattern. Check for samples to see which style you prefer ... with the grain or cross-grain cuts. The grain patterns are very different from each other, so be sure you choose the bamboo cut that is right for you.
Installing your Bamboo Floor
Bamboo can be glued to concrete slabs, stapled to wood sub-floors, and floated over most existing floor coverings. Anything you can do with wood flooring, you can do with bamboo flooring. Bamboo floors are also available in floating floor styles as well.
Installing your bamboo floor is much the same processes as with conventional hardwood flooring. The type of bamboo flooring you pick will dictate the installation process. Want to learn more about the types of bamboo floors available, visit www.FastFloors.com.
Tuesday, 24 March 2009
An Introduction To Bamboo Flooring
A little known fact: bamboo is technically not a tree at all, but a grass that includes over 1,000 species. Even without planting, bamboo naturally grows back, and it reaches maturity in only four to five years. These qualities make bamboo an excellent, forest-friendly source of wood for flooring.
Bamboo flooring may be new to North America but there are already several importers. Almost all bamboo imported to Canada and the United States is grown and manufactured in China though, it can be found in all of Southeast Asia.
Bamboo flooring is durable, and has a warmth and beauty that makes it especially desirable for flooring. Though there are many species of bamboo, only some are suitable for making flooring. Moso, for instance, is a common choice that reaches 40-50 feet high after just one year of growth. In another three years, the reeds are mature enough for harvesting. After harvesting, the bamboo is dried in the sun and then cut into strips that are shaped and planed. From these strips, bamboo flooring is made through a process of laminating and staining. The two main colors available for bamboo flooring are natural (a light woody color), and carbonized (an amber shade). There are also other color variations depending on the staining method.
Bamboo flooring has many remarkable qualities that make it equal to or better than many other “wood” flooring options. It is as hard as hard maple, and has been confirmed as harder and more stable than red oak. Maintenance for bamboo flooring is no different than for other pre-finished wood floor products -- frequent sweeping or vacuuming, spray cleaners, and occasionally mopping. Environmentally, the impact on world forests would be dramatically lessened if bamboo flooring were more widely used.
When considering bamboo flooring, it is important to know that not all bamboo is equal. Nor is all bamboo processing equal. Some discount or wholesale companies are already selling immaturely cut bamboo for bamboo flooring. The result is low-quality, cheap bamboo flooring that won’t last. Timing is also important in processing bamboo. If it is not treated within three days after it has been cut, the bamboo can easily mold, making the resulting flooring look bland and dull. Be sure to confirm that the wholesaler you deal with is knowledgeable and can assure that their bamboo and processing methods are of high quality.
Bamboo flooring may be new to North America but there are already several importers. Almost all bamboo imported to Canada and the United States is grown and manufactured in China though, it can be found in all of Southeast Asia.
Bamboo flooring is durable, and has a warmth and beauty that makes it especially desirable for flooring. Though there are many species of bamboo, only some are suitable for making flooring. Moso, for instance, is a common choice that reaches 40-50 feet high after just one year of growth. In another three years, the reeds are mature enough for harvesting. After harvesting, the bamboo is dried in the sun and then cut into strips that are shaped and planed. From these strips, bamboo flooring is made through a process of laminating and staining. The two main colors available for bamboo flooring are natural (a light woody color), and carbonized (an amber shade). There are also other color variations depending on the staining method.
Bamboo flooring has many remarkable qualities that make it equal to or better than many other “wood” flooring options. It is as hard as hard maple, and has been confirmed as harder and more stable than red oak. Maintenance for bamboo flooring is no different than for other pre-finished wood floor products -- frequent sweeping or vacuuming, spray cleaners, and occasionally mopping. Environmentally, the impact on world forests would be dramatically lessened if bamboo flooring were more widely used.
When considering bamboo flooring, it is important to know that not all bamboo is equal. Nor is all bamboo processing equal. Some discount or wholesale companies are already selling immaturely cut bamboo for bamboo flooring. The result is low-quality, cheap bamboo flooring that won’t last. Timing is also important in processing bamboo. If it is not treated within three days after it has been cut, the bamboo can easily mold, making the resulting flooring look bland and dull. Be sure to confirm that the wholesaler you deal with is knowledgeable and can assure that their bamboo and processing methods are of high quality.
Saturday, 14 March 2009
Strand Woven Bamboo Flooring
You’ve Chosen Bamboo, Now What?
You have made the decision to go with an eco-friendly bamboo floor. Congratulations! You have made a step toward going green. Now, how can you go one step farther? By going with strand woven bamboo flooring.
So what is strand woven bamboo? It is the material that is made when strands of bamboo are woven together and treated with an adhesive. This material is then compressed until it sets up. Afterwards it is cut into whatever size boards or planks that are required. You may ask, what makes this a green material? Rather than loose the pieces of bamboo that are left behind in the process of making standard bamboo planks, this material is recycled immediately by making it into strand woven bamboo.
What Are The Benefits?
Strand woven bamboo is one of the most stable woods that can be used for wood floors. The durability and toughness of strand woven makes it very hard to beat when used in high traffic areas. With the fast growth cycle of bamboo there is always an ample supply of material. Strand woven bamboo is extremely easy to clean. Usually you only need a dust mop to clean it. If it does require actual mopping then a simple solution of vinegar and water will get the job done quickly. Strand woven bamboo tends to be more moisture resistant than traditional bamboo flooring. This can greatly increase the life span of your floor.
There are several other benefits to having a strand woven bamboo floor. One such benefit includes being allergen free. If you are unhappy with the color of the stain, or if becomes faded or scuffed over time, then it can be sanded and refinished the same as any traditional hardwood floor. One thing to keep in mind is that bamboo flooring will actually require refinishing less often than a traditional wood floor. This could possibly save you a good deal of money over time.
So Why Does Strand Woven Bamboo Last?
Bamboo itself is a naturally durable wood. Once you take bamboo, layer it, and send it through a lamination process you end up with a sheet or plank that is extremely durable as well as being very resistant to damage. This combined with bamboo’s natural ability to expand and contract with relative ease can lead to an extremely long life span for your floor.
With just a little elbow grease and a little hard work you will soon have a very elegant and captivating floor. Keep in mind that you should look for companies that do not use formaldehyde in the making of their product. Formaldehyde can be used in some furniture construction as a wood preservative. It can make you sick over time if there is little or no ventilation in your home. Once you have your floor installed it will be time to sit back, relax, and enjoy! Your new strand woven floor will help add grace to whatever room you install it.
No matter what the reason for choosing your new strand woven bamboo flooring, you will be able to enjoy it for years to come. With an unmatched durability you will be pleased with your beautiful new bamboo floor.
You have made the decision to go with an eco-friendly bamboo floor. Congratulations! You have made a step toward going green. Now, how can you go one step farther? By going with strand woven bamboo flooring.
So what is strand woven bamboo? It is the material that is made when strands of bamboo are woven together and treated with an adhesive. This material is then compressed until it sets up. Afterwards it is cut into whatever size boards or planks that are required. You may ask, what makes this a green material? Rather than loose the pieces of bamboo that are left behind in the process of making standard bamboo planks, this material is recycled immediately by making it into strand woven bamboo.
What Are The Benefits?
Strand woven bamboo is one of the most stable woods that can be used for wood floors. The durability and toughness of strand woven makes it very hard to beat when used in high traffic areas. With the fast growth cycle of bamboo there is always an ample supply of material. Strand woven bamboo is extremely easy to clean. Usually you only need a dust mop to clean it. If it does require actual mopping then a simple solution of vinegar and water will get the job done quickly. Strand woven bamboo tends to be more moisture resistant than traditional bamboo flooring. This can greatly increase the life span of your floor.
There are several other benefits to having a strand woven bamboo floor. One such benefit includes being allergen free. If you are unhappy with the color of the stain, or if becomes faded or scuffed over time, then it can be sanded and refinished the same as any traditional hardwood floor. One thing to keep in mind is that bamboo flooring will actually require refinishing less often than a traditional wood floor. This could possibly save you a good deal of money over time.
So Why Does Strand Woven Bamboo Last?
Bamboo itself is a naturally durable wood. Once you take bamboo, layer it, and send it through a lamination process you end up with a sheet or plank that is extremely durable as well as being very resistant to damage. This combined with bamboo’s natural ability to expand and contract with relative ease can lead to an extremely long life span for your floor.
With just a little elbow grease and a little hard work you will soon have a very elegant and captivating floor. Keep in mind that you should look for companies that do not use formaldehyde in the making of their product. Formaldehyde can be used in some furniture construction as a wood preservative. It can make you sick over time if there is little or no ventilation in your home. Once you have your floor installed it will be time to sit back, relax, and enjoy! Your new strand woven floor will help add grace to whatever room you install it.
No matter what the reason for choosing your new strand woven bamboo flooring, you will be able to enjoy it for years to come. With an unmatched durability you will be pleased with your beautiful new bamboo floor.
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