Bamboo flooring has become one amongst the foremost widespread sorts of flooring each for transforming and new construction. It has a particular, trendy look and can be created in a lot of than fifty totally different colors. Or, it will be left within the natural color. You’ll be able to realize bamboo flooring created by most of the high flooring companies.
Bamboo floors are around since the 1980s, but it took time for it to come back into its own as one of the high flooring choices. These floors are constructed so [that the] top is as smooth as any wood floor, however it additionally shows off the distinctive options of bamboo such as the graining and also the knots. Bamboo floors have a look all their own.
There are three styles of bamboo floors. The primary one is horizontal flooring and it’s the most popular. The strips of bamboo are laid down at right angles to each different (one layer the short approach and one layer the long means) which provides the planks additional stability. Vertical bamboo floors are made with the strips of bamboo standing on end. This provides the finished plank a striped look. The last style is strand-woven flooring. Here the waste strips created from creating the opposite 2 are coated with resin and compressed into planks using high heat. This is often truly the strongest of the three choices.
Bamboo flooring isn’t only a stunning flooring, but it is a very quick growing plant. A whole harvest of bamboo can be replenished in three to seven years; after all it’s nearly impossible to form it stop growing. Different hardwood trees will take fifteen to 100 years to replenish themselves, which makes bamboo the environmentally friendly flooring of the lot. Bamboo isn’t truly wood; it is a type of grass. But, it’s harder than most hardwoods and several things can be made from bamboo besides flooring. Using more bamboo and less other hardwoods can enhance the atmosphere by leaving a lot of green trees to clean the air.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Jun 4th, 2010. Comment. 
Empleo
Recently I installed bamboo hardwood laminate flooring also known as a floating floor in a one bedroom unit I was about to move into. I was faced with the decision of whether to get the snap in variety that doesn’t require glue or the hardwood laminate flooring that does require you to glue the boards together. So I rang a friend of mine who had installed laminated boards several years before. I vaguely remembered that he had used glue with his flooring, so I wanted to get his opinion as to how easy it was to go in that direction.
Juegos
First, you have to invest in a special vinyl adhesive. Since you can save a lot of money from using vinyl tiles instead of carpets and other types of flooring, you might as well buy the best adhesive that you can get your hands on. Why? Cheap adhesives do not really stick that well, so after a few months you will be seeing tiles out of their places.
Trabajar
By being glued together, the floor had a higher resistance to water seeping between the boards. It is still important to wipe up any spills quickly from a laminated floor to guarantee that they do not absorb the liquid and eventually buckle. To install them, he laid three rows of boards, gluing each board to the next one. Then you let them dry for a while. Then you do three more rows of boards. And continue like that until you’ve finished.
Can be cleaned easily : Bamboo floors can be kept clean without much effort just by sweeping daily and using a mop once in a week.
Arguments against bamboo flooring : Floating of bamboo floors sometimes turns out to be almost impossible as such before installation of bamboo flooring the restrictions associated with it must be studied.
Some people have witnessed that bamboo floors break down quite easily than other hardwood floors. Before you go for bamboo flooring you must consider its pros and cons so that you can make a well thought out decision.
They worked by requiring one board to be lifted on one side before it could be slid into the next board, and then it was dropped back level to lock it in. I also wasn’t using the boards in a kitchen or bathroom, so spillages were not really an issue. you can be Published without charge. You can to republish this article in your website or blog. Please provide links Active.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Apr 10th, 2010. Comment.
People around the world always look out for opportunities in midnight sales and night markets. This is a seasonal event which help attract a lot of consumers. Patrons will usually take time out to treat the entire family for a shopping spree. Discount bamboo flooring falls under the legions of products which may be sold at a lower price.
Sometimes, you may be in doubt of buying bamboo flooring on sale. Forget about issues on the quality of the material. Even if you cannot help but ask what is behind the sale, you should be more optimistic about it. Find out why discount bamboo flooring is good for your place.
Getting Superior Quality with Discount Bamboo Flooring
Just because a product is on sale means that it is something which will soon be thrown into trash. This is not the real scenario. Items go on discount mainly because there is a need to dispose old stocks. This will pave the way for more product designs to choose from. It may be true that the discount bamboo flooring did not sell like hotcakes before. However, it still promises to have the same quality in the product.
You may have limited color selections when it comes to discounted bamboo flooring. Despite this fact, there is still something which will match your home’s requirements. The color choices do not count if you want to save more on cost. The price you will pay is sufficient to make a purchase.
Other Things You Get from Discount Bamboo Flooring
Online providers usually offer discount bamboo flooring. Aside from getting most products through hardware stores, manufacturers offer the same promotions through the Internet. You also get other services from purchasing the floor boards through online partners. You may ask your service provider to deliver the product to your doorsteps. This is certainly one of the most enticing product offers you will get for your floor board.
Installation will never be forgotten even if the flooring materials are on sale. The entire service will not be complete without this process. All the product manuals are also kept intact. You also have the chance to raise your concerns to the manufacturer. There is no such policy as “no return, no exchange†for this product.
Your role as a patron extends to the fact that you should be conscientious with the price and value of the product. Make discount bamboo flooring an open option on your part. Just stay positive about why you get the item at a lower price. Forget about not getting a good quality product. All you need to bear in mind is the savings you may add to your bank accounts. This will aid you if you need to buy other things for the home.
The author is an experienced Webmaster and is the founder of Flooring2Roof.com. He writes many helpful articles related to the subject of flooring, such as laminate floor and hardwood flooring that you can learn from without leaving home.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Apr 18th, 2009. Comment.
Cleaning the house is one way of maintaining its value. Your guests will not be impressed to see an untidy abode. It is actually reflective of your personality. Each room and corner of your house counts when it comes to keeping the area clean. Tidying up your house starts from the top and ends at the bottom surfaces. It is therefore significant to consider cleaning laminate flooring as well.
Simple things should be remembered when cleaning laminate flooring. You should bear in mind that there are ways of maintaining the floor’s appearance. Some routines should be done on a daily basis while others should be made on a weekly schedule.  The vital factor you should bear in mind is to keep the floor free from dirt at all times.
Things To Use When Cleaning Laminate Flooring
Cleaning laminate flooring is not the usual sweep and mop practice. In fact, if you are going to use a broom, you might be scratching the surface. The material may inflict some bruises to the floor board. A dust mop is said to be a better option than the broom.
Using a vacuum cleaner is another option. Go for the stick type vacuum cleaner for smoother finish. Avoid types which adds up to scratches and other damages to the floor. Waxing the surface is also not advisable. While this material can make it shiny, it may also leave some dull traces on the laminate flooring.
Ways In Cleaning Laminate Flooring
It is always best to clean laminate flooring everyday. Besides wiping away spillage immediately, consider the materials you will use as well. Ignoring the event may cause you to leave your floor to a negative impression. Use soft materials to wipe away water or dirt on the area. This will ascertain that the surface will be left safe from scratches. The floor’s color will be ripped-off if you will not remove the spillage immediately.
Check for other cleaning tips on the manual of the laminate flooring. Manufacturers know very well that you need these guidelines. Some also sells products which will match the cleaning of the floor board. This does not merely clean up your floors, it helps maintain the laminate flooring’s durability as well.
Pour your heart out when cleaning laminate flooring. Invite your housemates to take part in the procedure. Sing a song while you are doing the household chore. You will definitely find it fulfilling if you do the work with joy in your heart. Your laminate flooring will only serve its purpose by taking heed to the above-mentioned tips in cleaning.
If you want to learn all about floors and how they can enhance the different areas of your house, why not visit Flooring2Roof.com, where there are many well-researched articles on bamboo flooring, hardwood floors and many other related topics. Whether you are the type who enjoys doing all the work yourself or you want to hire contractors to do the installation and maintenance of your floors, knowing about this background information will definitely improve the prospects of a successful flooring project.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Apr 11th, 2009. Comment.
Bamboo wood flooring provides another avenue for those looking for something other than hardwood for thier residential flooring system. Growing in popularity as an alternative, bamboo flooring has many features that make it stand out when compared to hardwood. Although harvested primarily in China, bamboo flooring can now be found easily in both European and North American markets. Many early adopters of bamboo flooring point out its environmental friendliness. The bamboo plant regrows very quickly when compared with the time it takes a forest to regrow. In fact, the bamboo plant is considered a grass, as it grows much quicker than any tree. When done responsibly, bamboo plant harvesting can be done without causing any permanent damage.
How does bamboo flooring compare with traditional hardwoods such as bruce flooring? High quality bamboo flooring is harder and more durable than even the most expensive hardwood flooring. Moisture is also less of a problem for bamboo flooring. Where traditional hardwood may buckle and crack because of water exposure, bamboo flooring will keep out water without a problem. Bamboo flooring is engineered like a laminate and treated under very high pressure with a high quality adhesive. This makes bamboo flooring very resistant to abrasions and scratches, where a hardwood floor would end up showing scratches. Bamboo flooring has become significantly more affordable in the past few years as well.
Best of all, bamboo flooring can typically be installed at home without any professional assistance. Like many of the newer hardwoods, bamboo flooring is made with a groove that allows the planks to interlock, making them considerably easier to install. Before installing a bamboo floor, allow the planks sit in their new environment for no less than 72 hours. Although bamboo flooring is very resistant to moisture, they do need some time to adjust to their new climate before installation.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide upkeep for bamboo flooring? Maintenance requirements are fairly simple for bamboo flooring. Be sure to clean the floor after installing it, using a mop with only a little bit of water. Regular dusting and sweeping should be done after installation. This will prevent dust and dirt from collecting on the finish. A mat should be placed at the entrance to prevent dust and dirt from coming into the room. Dirt and small rocks will end up damaging the finish, and a mat can do a great deal to prevent this problem.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Apr 7th, 2009. Comment.
Every individual’s responsibility is directed for the good of humanity. A man is known for his genuine concern for all. With all the things that are happening, weighing the good from the bad is a must. Daily life calls for proper assessment of things. Alongisde these statements, bamboo flooring pros and cons are also taken into consideration.
The plant used in bamboo flooring marked some debates in the flooring industry. Environmentalists begin to walk their way to defend the use of the plant for the floor boards. In spite such occurrences, the bamboo flooring industry remains intact. In fact, manufacturers continue to process such kinds of floor boards. More technological advancements pave the way to answer client’s demands.
The Different Bamboo Flooring Pros
In the light of it all, bamboo flooring pros are directed to the material used in coming up with the product. Bamboo plants are applauded for its strength. This is a criterion which certainly makes the product ever dependable at all times. The difference on how the products are manufactured may contribute to the quality. It withstands all climactic changes – from severely hot to extremely cold.
With the question of several green movements, there is nothing to worry about. Three years is the least you will expect before another bamboo plant develops. Compared to other trees in the planet, the rate of growth is said to be the fastest. The development does not call for the use of harsh chemicals. Bamboos redevelop without much need for physical factors. This resulted to obtaining license from the LEED.
Assessing Bamboo Flooring Cons
Bamboo flooring cons are intensifying the controversies on bamboo flooring. In fact, despite certification from LEED, you have no assurance that the floor boards were made according to standards. You will never know whether chemical compounds incorporated in the output came from environment-friendly options.
The quality of the product is also affected by some businessmen whose main concern is to earn money from the production. Bamboos are sturdy as they are. However, this factor depends upon the process it went through before it became bamboo flooring. As a consumer, you should end up checking on the material before you actually purchase it. If you want a floating one, check on this aspect as well.
Before you actually make a purchase, check out on the above bamboo flooring pros and cons. Your decision is reliant upon your proper outlook on the product. Make other individuals as your very own resource persons. You should put your heart into this aspect as well. If you want benefits, then take things slowly but surely.
If you wish to read more about the subject of flooring, have a good look at Flooring2Roof.com, which contains many well-written articles on subjects of interest such as for example laminate flooring and hardwood flooring, which every homeowner will surely find very interesting.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Apr 4th, 2009. Comment.
Your satisfaction is always on top of the list of businesses. Yes, you always have the choice to ask for the features you want for the product. Before you make a purchase, consultation with providers are encouraged. If you will buy a flooring, following these guidelines is also pertinent. Carbonized bamboo flooring is such a specialized sample of floor boards which you may personalize.
Traditionally, buying your housing materials would involve picking from what the store currently offers. Floor board selection was also confined to what was in the shop. Now, you are the boss. You may give the necessary instructions when it comes to carbonized bamboo flooring. You may have some artistic thoughts that will make the finished product simply outstanding.
Personalizing Your Carbonized Bamboo Flooring
The entire floor plan for your dream house will not be complete without thinking of the right carbonized bamboo flooring for your abode. You may ask the idea of experts when it comes to your selection. Amazingly, you have different design choices to match your discriminating taste. These are generally called as parquet.
Make sure you think of where the floor board will be used.  This will allow you to make the smartest selection. You may ask your providers to nail down the bamboos together or use the more up-to-date gluing technique to link the boards together.  Whichever of these techniques you choose, make sure it will work according to your plans. Add more aesthetical value to the product through a semi-matte finish.
Other Carbonized Bamboo Flooring Features
You may also be interested about other facts on carbonized bamboo flooring. Bamboo floors are proud of its capabilities to control water infiltration. It also imitates the function of sound-proof walls. It has the ability to refuse nicks or cuts.
Carbonized bamboo flooring actually goes through a lot before coming out with the finished product. The bamboo is boiled until its natural sugars are released. During the process, the transformation occurs. Even without adding paint or varnish to the product, the color changes during the procedure. It may range from mocha to dark brown.
Carbonized bamboo flooring is good enough with its natural color. The process ensures that the end-product will come out the way you want it. The method of boiling the bamboo makes it become appealing on its own. Choosing the right color is made easier by the process that the bamboo floors undergo.  Eliminating the procedure will mean that you will not get the ideal bamboo flooring you are craving for.
The author is a well-regarded Webmaster and is the owner of the website Flooring2Roof.com. He creates lots of web pages related to the subject of flooring, such as laminate floor and hardwood flooring that you can browse on his website even while you are relaxing in your living room.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Apr 2nd, 2009. Comment.
Floors make a house stand firmly above the grounds. They are the reasons for adding more value to the premises. They are purposely used to inhibit the attacks of Mother Nature. Whichever function they serve, they are just essential as other foundations of a construction. A lot have seen the relevance of several flooring types as well. How about bamboo flooring and all the concerns behind it?
Asia is a pioneer in the processing, manufacture and exportation of bamboo flooring systems. These kinds of floor boards are seen in most traditional houses especially in China. Other continents have patterned and bought their bamboo floors from Asia until they have already manufactured their own floor board counterparts. Businessmen from other parts of the world had gained profit from the manufacture of bamboo floors.
The Different Bamboo Flooring Types To Enjoy
Conventional bamboo floors are made up of thin, flattened stems of the bamboo plant. To add up to the value and strength of the floor, several things are being done. Polishing the surface makes it come out shinier for the eyes of the end-user. The work will not be complete without the presence of larger bamboos.
North America had changed the traditional forms of bamboo floors. Through a highly-mechanized process, glues are used to substitute nails in attaching one bamboo stem to the other. These are known as manufactured bamboo floors. The variety extends to the so-called horizontal and vertical bamboo floors.
Bamboo Flooring Purposes
Bamboo flooring is ideally picked because of its significant functions. It is as elegant as how the standards have set it to be.  Its functionality is directed to insect resistance for the home. It is also against the disadvantages of humidity. This makes it gain popularity to a lot of manufacturers and patrons.
However, despite a very outstanding stature it has, bamboo floorings somehow raise some issues of concern. Some individuals made some efforts to stop the use of such products because of the supposed bad effects on the environment. The use of the glue for manufacturing the floorboards are also facing its own sets of concerns. This had somehow affected the thoughts of individuals who are craving for bamboo floors instituted in their homes.
Up to now, though, bamboo flooring is still one of the most purchased materials. The problems made the business industry prosperous and successful,. Undoubtedly, it is further increasing its sales through time. Owe this fact to the credibility of the industry and the improvements instituted. Now, the choice is really dependent upon the consumer. Simply put, bamboo flooring is still one of the vital industries to beat.
If the topic of flooring for your home is something that you want to become more knowledgeable about, visit the online site Flooring2Roof.com, which publishes a great number of informative reports on different topics such as for example laminate flooring and hardwood flooring, which people of all backgrounds will most definitely find to be full of worthwhile information.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Mar 24th, 2009. Comment.
Bamboo flooring provides an excellent alternative to traditional hardwood flooring. Growing in popularity as an alternative, bamboo flooring has many features that make it stand out when compared to hardwood. Although harvested primarily in China, bamboo flooring can now be found easily in both European and North American markets. Many of those that adopted bamboo flooring early on point out its environmental friendliness. The bamboo plant regrows very quickly when compared with the time it takes a forest to regrow. In fact, the bamboo plant is considered a grass, as it grows much quicker than any tree. When done responsibly, bamboo plant harvesting can be done without causing any permanent damage.
How does bamboo flooring compare with traditional hardwoods? High quality bamboo flooring provides a tougher surface than even the rarest and most expensive hardwoods. Moisture does not affect bamboo in the way that hardwood suffers from water damage. Where traditional hardwood may cup and crown because of water exposure, bamboo flooring will keep out water without a problem. Bamboo flooring is engineered like a laminate and treated under extremely high pressure with a high quality glue. This makes bamboo flooring very resistant to abrasions and scratches, where less treated hardwood floors may show scratches after a while. Bamboo flooring has become significantly more affordable in the past few years as well.
Best of all, bamboo flooring is easy enough to lay down without any professional help. Like many of the newer hardwoods, bamboo flooring is made with a groove that allows the planks to interlock, making them considerably easier to install. Prior to laying down a bamboo floor, allow the planks sit in their new environment for no less than 72 hours. Although bamboo flooring is very resistant to moisture, they do need some time to adjust to the new environment before installation.
What should be done to maintain a bamboo floor? Maintenance requirements are fairly simple for bamboo flooring. Be sure to clean the floor after installing it, using a mop with only a little bit of water. Regular dusting and sweeping should be done after installation. This will prevent dust and dirt from collecting on the finish. A mat used at the entrance way will keep out a great deal of dust and dirt. Dirt and small rocks can easily scratch the finish, and a mat can do a great deal to prevent this problem.
For more advice about discount laminate flooring and an updated version of bamboo flooring pros and cons go to flooring options.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Mar 4th, 2009. Comment.
Bamboo flooring provides another avenue for those looking for something other than hardwood. Growing in popularity as an alternative, bamboo flooring has many attractive features that make it a viable option for modern homeowners. Although harvested mostly in China, bamboo flooring is now widely available in North America and Europe. Many of those that adopted bamboo flooring early on point out its environmental friendliness. The bamboo plant regrows very quickly when compared with the time it takes a forest to regrow. In fact, the bamboo plant is considered a grass, as it grows far faster than a forest. When done responsibly, bamboo plant harvesting can be done without causing any permanent damage.
How does bamboo flooring compare with traditional hardwoods? High quality bamboo flooring provides a tougher surface than even the rarest and most expensive hardwoods. Moisture does not affect bamboo in the way that hardwood suffers from water damage. Where traditional hardwood may cup and crown due to water exposure, bamboo flooring will keep out water without a problem. Bamboo flooring is processed as a laminate wood floor and treated under very high pressure with a high quality glue. This makes bamboo flooring very resistant to abrasions and scratches, where less treated hardwood floors may show scratches after a while. Bamboo flooring has become a great deal more affordable in recent times as well.
Best of all, bamboo flooring can typically be installed at home without any professional assistance. Like many of the newer hardwoods, bamboo flooring is produced with a tongue and groove construction, making them considerably easier to install. Before installing a bamboo floor, let the planks sit in their new environment for no less than 72 hours. Although bamboo flooring does not suffer from water damage like a hardwood floor, they do need some time to adjust to the new environment before installation.
What steps need to be taken in order to provide upkeep for a bamboo floor? Maintenance requirements are fairly simple for bamboo flooring, as well as any hardwood floor care. Be sure to clean the floor after installing it, using a mop with only a little bit of water. Regular dusting and sweeping should be done after installation. This will prevent a build up of dust that can dull the finish. A mat used at the entrance way will keep out a great deal of dust and dirt. Dirt and small rocks will end up damaging the finish, and a mat can do a great deal to prevent this problem.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Nov 30th, 2008. Comment.
Depending on what look you are trying to achieve the grain of the bamboo flooring can go either horizontally or vertically. If you go with the horizontally grain it will look more natural than if you go with vertically strips. The vertically strips tend to be narrower which might suit you better if that is the look that you are going for in your kitchen.Â
Bamboo can be very moisture resistant if sealed correctly so usually it is not something a normal homeowner would want to tackle without some professional help. If you have ever had hardwood floors you know they will look beautiful for years to come if taken care of properly, which entails not much more then sweeping and moping, and bamboo floors are not any different.Â
Pros of Bamboo:
-Environmentally friendly-Bamboo fields take a fraction of the time to grow in relation to trees.
-Resilient and strong
-30-40 year life span
-High fire resistance
Cons:
-Not available in a wide range of colors-due to its popularity this is changing quickly and will continue to do so in the future to come.Â
-Moisture-This is only a problem if they are not sealed acceptably
The cost of bamboo floors is between three and nine dollars a square foot installed which is half of what comparable hardwood floors would be. If you are looking for the look of hardwood floors without the associated expense bamboo kitchen floors are going to be a great pick for you and your family. Bamboo offers a lot of bang for your buck combining functionality, enviornmentally friendly, and incredible durablity.
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Hello my name is Steven Tikas and I have a new website that I have dedicated to helping people make an informed and educated decision when dealing with kitchen remodeling. For more specific information about bamboo kitchen flooring or general kitchen flooring choices available for your kitchen check out my website.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Nov 26th, 2008. Comment.
For an attractive alternative to traditional hard wood flooring, many people decide to go with bamboo flooring. Growing in popularity, bamboo flooring has many attractive features that make it a viable option for modern homeowners. Bamboo flooring is cultivated mainly in South Asia and is available to consumers through out Europe and North America. Many early adopters of bamboo flooring point out its environmental friendliness. The bamboo plant grows very quickly when compared with the time it takes a forest to regrow. Commonly mistaken as a member of the tree family, Bamboo is in the grass category and grows much faster than trees. Today, Bamboo is cultivated and harvested much more responsibly and environmentally friendly than in past years.
In what way does bamboo and traditional hardwood flooring products compare with each other? High quality bamboo flooring products are harder and more durable than even the most expensive hardwood flooring. Moisture is also less of a problem for bamboo flooring. To a certain extent, bamboo flooring can absorb moisture more readily, when many hardwood brands can buckle or crack due to water exposure. The processing of bamboo flooring as a laminate is done with extreme pressure, treating it with a high quality glue product. This makes bamboo flooring very resistant to abrasions and scratches, where less treated hardwood floors may show scratches after a while. In today’s economy, bamboo flooring is increasing in popularity because it is one of the more affordable natural flooring products available.
Best of all, bamboo flooring can typically be installed at home without any professional assistance. Similar to other natural wood flooring products today, bamboo is produced in a manner where pieces can be joined together by snapping them in place without using any glue. However, before you begin installing a new bamboo floor you will need to allow the wood time to adjust to the surrounding temperature, usually for around three days. Although bamboo flooring is very resistant to moisture, they do need some time to adjust to their new climate before installation.
What should be done to maintain a bamboo floor? Maintenance requirements are fairly simple for bamboo flooring. Basic cleaning for spills should involve a lightly damp cloth, many retailers recommend using wood cleaners formulated for pre-finished hardwood or laminate floors and express the importance of wiping up spills immediately, and then buff drying afterwards. Long term cleaning will depend on the amount of wear on the floor, because once it begins to take on a dull appearance you will need to recoat the Urethane finish. There are several tips you can follow to help keep your bamboo flooring looking great for many years to come and one of which, is to only use a urethane-base finish verses any type of waxing. Beware of high heels; the average size woman in high heels can exert as much as 2,000 pounds per square inch of pressure on the floor and this can damage even the toughest flooring material. Make sure to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendation, as a properly maintained floor significantly increases the likelihood of the longevity of your bamboo flooring.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Nov 20th, 2008. Comment.
Bamboo flooring provides another avenue for those looking for something other than hardwood. Growing in popularity as an alternative, bamboo flooring has many features that make it stand out when compared to hardwood. Although harvested primarily in China, bamboo flooring can now be found easily in both European and North American markets. Many of those that adopted bamboo flooring early on point out its environmental friendliness. The bamboo plant regrows very quickly when compared with the time it takes a forest to regrow. In fact, the bamboo plant is considered a grass, as it grows far faster than a forest. When done responsibly, bamboo plant harvesting can be accomplished in a environmentally friendly manner.
How does bamboo flooring compare with traditional hardwoods? High quality bamboo flooring is harder and more durable than even the most expensive hardwood flooring. Moisture does not affect bamboo in the way that hardwood suffers from water damage. Where traditional hardwood may buckle and crack because of water exposure, bamboo flooring can absorb the moisture without a problem. Bamboo flooring is processed as a laminate and treated under very high pressure with a high quality glue. This makes bamboo flooring very resistant to abrasions and scratches, where a hardwood floor would end up showing scratches. Bamboo flooring has become significantly more affordable in the past few years as well.
Best of all, bamboo flooring is easy enough to lay down without any professional help. Like many of the newer hardwoods, bamboo flooring is produced with a tongue and groove construction, making them considerably easier to install. Before installing a bamboo floor, let the planks to adjust to their new environment for no less than 72 hours. Although bamboo flooring does not suffer from water damage like hardwood, they do need some time to adjust to their new climate before installation.
What should be done to maintain a bamboo floor? Maintenance requirements are fairly simple for bamboo flooring. Make certain to sweep and mop the floor after it is laid down. Regular dusting and sweeping should be done after installation. This will prevent dust and dirt from collecting on the finish. A mat should be placed at the entrance to prevent dust and dirt from coming into the room. Dirt and small rocks will end up damaging the finish, and a mat can do a great deal to prevent this problem.
Learn more on flooring go to Oak Hardwood Flooring
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Nov 20th, 2008. Comment.
New Meaning To Green Thumb?
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In today’s world we constantly hear about such things as global warming, carbon footprints, deforestation. We also hear about “going green†and being “eco friendly.†So, what does this all mean? With the loss of so much of our old growth hardwood forests we are seeing a heavy increase in lumber prices. As the timber is lost, so too is an important part of our planet’s fragile ecosystem. Trees are nature’s way of cleaning the air so that we have plenty of oxygen to breath. So, where does bamboo fit into all this?
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When someone installs hardwood flooring in their home or business they are contributing to the deforestation process. By making the choice to use bamboo you are actually helping to conserve those hardwoods that would have normally been used. This is what “going green†means. It is the choice to use materials that have a greatly reduced impact on the environment. Bamboo is one such material. With over one thousand species of bamboo found throughout the world, bamboo can be considered one of the world most renewable resources.
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What Makes Bamboo Green?
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Many species of bamboo grow quite quickly. Some are ready for harvest within four to six years. Past this point the quality actually begins to degrade. This is much quicker than the decades that hardwoods take to mature. What makes bamboo grow so quick? Bamboo is actually not a type of tree at all. It is really a type of grass. Even though it is a grass there are species of bamboo that can grow up to four feet a day! This means that the time between harvests is greatly reduced allowing for a much quicker harvest.
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Another benefit to bamboo can be seen when harvesting it. Bamboo forests are actually made up of a few plants that grow underground through a series of nodes. Once you harvest a bamboo plant one or more new shoots will begin to grow. This means there is no costly or time-consuming process of replanting required. This also means that no fossil fuels will be used to replant the bamboo thereby lowering the harvester’s carbon footprint. Doesn’t it feel good to know that you would have a hand in helping reduce the amount of pollution being released into the environment?
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Ready To Go Green?
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Now that you know some of the benefits when making bamboo flooring your choice of flooring material, you are all set. Make the choice to go green and help to make the world a more enjoyable place. Help to conserve our beautiful and majestic hardwood forests. Be sure to spread the word to any of your friends that are considering a hardwood floor as well. If we all pitch in and do our part we can soon have the world in a much better condition. So, whether you do the work yourself or have a contractor install the floor for you, make sure that you ask for the most eco-friendly flooring material of all; bamboo!
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Filed under Remodeling by on Oct 26th, 2008. Comment.
Why Is Bamboo For Me?
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With a warm and inviting look, a bamboo floor makes a great addition to any house. The great durability and ruggedness of the material makes it a perfect choice for high traffic homes such as those with very active pets or even children. Strand woven bamboo is one of the most stable woods suitable for wood floors Bamboo is also very eco-friendly. It can be planted, grown, and harvested with little to no impact on the environment around it. Due to its rapid growth process, bamboo is much more eco-friendly than the other slower growing hard woods.
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Some of the other benefits of a Bamboo Floor include:
- Easy to clean
- Allergen Free
- Can be sanded and refinished just like other hardwood floors
- Coordinates easily with any room décor
- Excellent for commercial use or high traffic areas
- Environmentally safe & friendly
- Moisture resistant
- Minimal shrinkage / minimal expansion
- Aesthetically sound
- Less sanding and refinishing than most other hardwood floors
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So Why Does Bamboo Hold Up So Well?
Bamboo is a naturally durable wood. This combined with the process of lamination that it goes through to produce the end result planks creates a product that is extremely resistant to damage.
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TIP: One thing to consider when choosing your floor is whether to choose standard bamboo or strand woven bamboo. While both are quite beautiful, strand woven bamboo planks are actually made from strips of bamboo that have been compressed and bonded together. While this leads to a tougher product than even regular bamboo flooring, it can sometimes be limited on color choices depending on which supplier you decide to use.
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But What If?
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One thing that most people worry about with wood floors in general is “what if I spill something on it?†Never fear, unlike most hardwood floors, as long as it does not sit for a long period of time, spills will not affect a bamboo floor like it does a standard wood floor. Also, clean up is a snap! Just a simple dry mop and a little bit of vinegar water will have it looking good as new. If the unimaginable happens and you have *queue the dramatic music* a scratch… No worries! Bamboo is very easy to sand and lay down a little finish. Ta dah! Good as new and no expensive replacing or other such headache.
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Tip: It is possible that over time the finish on your floor may fade. To be able to keep the color change as even as possible you should try changing your furniture around from time to time. This will allow the entire floor to get equal amounts of wear. Some manufacturers are selling bamboo floors that are said to resist fading. This would be a definite option to keep in mind!
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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 flooring.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Oct 8th, 2008. Comment.
You’ve decided to replace your floor with bamboo. You buy the materials that you need and bring them home. Now what? How do you install your new floor properly so you can enjoy it for many years? One of the first steps you should take is to inspect your materials. Bamboo is a natural material and will have slight variations in color. Any material that has serious defects should be returned to the supplier if at all possible.
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What about Floor Preparation?
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One important step in bamboo flooring installation is being sure that the subfloor is sound. Because of the properties of bamboo, particleboard subfloors are unacceptable. The subfloor should be either ¾†OSB, 5/8†plywood, concrete or an existing solid wood subfloor. This will help keep the moisture content down so the adhesive used to lay the bamboo will not fail. The subfloor must be level to ensure the best possible installation. If the subfloor is subject to moisture, it shouldn’t exceed 2%; otherwise it should remain dry year round.
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Now Can We Install?
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Humidity and temperature should be consistent for ten days minimum before installation. If a room exceeds 80° or falls below 50°, or if the humidity is allowed to fluctuate higher than 65% or lower than 35%, most warranties will be voided. A dehumidifier or humidifier may be used to regulate the conditions of the room where the floor is installed. Always sweep the floor before installation begins. Dirt left behind will cause the floor to lie incorrectly.
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To Nail, Glue, or Float?
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Bamboo can be installed by nailing, gluing, or by using the floating method. If nailing, the planks should be started square with the room. Be sure that it is parallel to its longest length (achieved by using a chalk line). Make sure to leave a 3/8†expansion from any wall, base plate or other stationary vertical areas. Site made spacers are perfect for ensuring this. Once the starter rows are firmly in place by wedging or face nailing you can begin to add additional rows. Make sure you blind nail them directly above each tongue at a 45-50 degree angle. Also space your fasteners 10-12†apart with a minimum of two per plank.
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Rather “Stick To It?â€
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Make sure that you use elastomeric moisture barrier wood flooring adhesive such as “Bostik’s Best,†or “Franklin’s 811 Plus.†Follow their directions on how to use, handle, and store the adhesive. Once you are ready to install, spread the adhesive with a notched trowel. Make sure to spread only as much adhesive as you will be covering in one hour so it does not have time to dry before the planks are in place. Once the glue has become tacky you are ready to lay the planks. The planks should be installed in the same manner as the nailing method, being sure to vary the tones in the planks as you go. Continue until the floor is totally covered. It is very important to remove any adhesive that gets on the surface. Once cured it is extremely difficult to remove.
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How About Floating?
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Using the floating method requires the installation of a suitable vapor barrier and/or underlayment between your flooring and the subfloor. This also includes taping the seams to ensure full coverage of the subfloor. One recommended adhesive is E-Z Bond (Medium Viscosity formula 1-866-239-2663). Remember! This material “sets†in approximately 15 seconds (it is kin to “super glueâ€). Before you glue the planks together, make sure they fit properly. Begin the installation using spacers to make sure that the recommended expansion perimeter is maintained (3/8â€). Place the groove of the starter row against the wall and apply the adhesive along the bottom of the groove. Quickly tap the planks together using a tapping block. Also apply glue to the bottom side of the groove at the end joints for the first several rows.
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You have installed your new bamboo flooring. Now you can sit back and enjoy the elegance and refinement that it brings to your room. Remember, keep the humidity and temperature under control and you will be able to enjoy your bamboo floor for years to come.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Oct 8th, 2008. Comment.
Caring For Your Bamboo Floor
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Once you have had your beautiful new bamboo floor installed you can insure that it looks great and sees many years of use and enjoyment by properly caring for it. Bamboo flooring is very tough and wears much better than most other types of hardwood floors. By protecting it from possible damage you will ensure its longevity. It will be a source of enjoyment for your family and guests for years to come. Below are a few tips to set you on the right path to provide the care that your bamboo floor requires for that long life that it deserves.
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First and foremost, if you are using rugs on your bamboo floor make sure that they do not have a rubber backing. Rubber backed rugs can easily damage a wooden floor and bamboo is no exception. The rubber coating does not allow the floor to breathe properly and can lead to discoloration of your bamboo floor.
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In this same vein, make sure that you place protective pads under any furniture legs that are in contact with your floor. Make sure to use pads that are backed with felt or thick fabric. This will prevent the pressure of the furniture from leading to an indentation in the bamboo flooring over time. Never allow heavy furniture to be dragged across your floor. This could lead to unsightly gouging and scrapes. Deep enough places would be much more expensive to repair than it would be worth so you really want to do what you can to prevent them.
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Got The Prevention Down, Now How Do I Clean It?
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One thing to do is to prevent any spills when possible. If a spill is allowed to sit for an extended period of time on your bamboo floor it could lead to discoloring. Make sure to get your spill up as quickly as possible when they happen. Usually you can easily remove simple spills by wiping up whatever was spilled and then lightly cleaning the area with a damp rag and a little vinegar water. Some manufacturers may recommend a certain type of cleaner better suited for their particular type of floor. If the manufacturer recommends a certain type of cleaner then you should try to use that brand if possible so that you do not potentially void your floor’s warranty.
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This goes for general cleaning as well. Make sure that you use a soft bristle broom to sweep your floor free of dust and dirt often so that it does not have a chance to accumulate and cause damage to your beautiful floor. A dust mop can make a very good tool to use due to the fact that it does not have bristles that may possible leave minute scratches that can lead to damage over time. Prevention can be a very powerful tool in this case. By placing a doormat at each entry, you can ensure that family and friends don’t track dirt onto your beautiful floor that you will have to worry about cleaning up. A friend suggested that I keep an ancient Asian custom alive by having everyone remove their shoes as they enter. She said that it helped to encourage cultural awareness while saving her some cleaning time as well.
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No matter how you look at it, your gorgeous new bamboo flooring can last you for decades to come if it is cared for properly. By making sure to keep it clean you will extend it’s life drastically. Enjoy!
Read more on cleaning bamboo flooring at A1 Bamboo Flooring.
Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Oct 6th, 2008. Comment.
History of Bamboo
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Bamboo flooring originates from the bamboo plant itself, but what exactly is the history of this amazing and versatile plant? While most people have heard of bamboo, many of them don’t know the exact details about where this plant comes from. But, as you probably already imagined bamboo comes from Asian countries where it is grown in large numbers. The bamboo plant is a grass but some grow so large that they are called Bamboo trees. These are obviously much larger than the regular bamboo plant.
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Bamboo has been around for centuries and is known for its many purposes, some of the most ancient artifacts found, came from as far back as the Song dynasty. They had made many objects out of bamboo. Bamboo has been used as flooring for approximately 5,000 years in some Asian countries; the Han dynasty used bamboo for flooring in many of their enormous palaces. They used bamboo for more than just floors they also used it for paper and medicines as well as many other helpful objects.
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Bamboo Flooring
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Bamboo is considered to be a very hard wood, even though it is not a wood at all, but a grass. It loses a considerable amount of hardness during processing but the finished result is still a very hard wood. Bamboo flooring is something that has been popular for many thousands of years, so there must be something special about it. That something is the fact that bamboo can be grown in large numbers and very quickly, making it abundant for harvesting and making helpful objects. Bamboo flooring can be considered one of the oldest and first hard wood floors to come into existence.
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Bamboo flooring comes in over 55 colors so there are many choices to choose from. If you are concerned about mold or mildew, do not worry about it, most bamboo floors are pre-treated to protect against insects and mold or mildews. But you should still exercise proper care and maintenance when purchasing new bamboo flooring. Most bamboo flooring is made with layers, each layer possessing a different job, each adding to the protection and insulation of the floor.
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Today, bamboo is not just flooring, but it also makes great furniture, such as table and chairs. Some people even use bamboo knitting needles which are a very popular item. But the bamboo floors are really something special, made from such a magnificent wood, bamboo flooring could not be anything but the best. Most bamboo flooring is manufactured in China and then shipped all over the world.
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Bamboo has been used for some pretty amazing things, some that most people have never heard of. One of these things was the fact that Alexander Graham Bell used bamboo in his earliest phonograph, or perhaps that bamboo is the fastest growing plant of any kind on the planet today. Bamboo is extremely strong and in some cases can even be stronger than steal, which is what makes it such a durable option for flooring. Just remember that when choosing wood floors bamboo could be the right choice for you, it has been around long enough, the ancients knew that it was amazing, and they where right, bamboo is magnificent. So when shopping online or at a flooring company, just remember that bamboo is not just a wood, it’s a lifestyle.
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Filed under Home Improvement Tips by on Sep 26th, 2008. Comment.