Bamboo flooring is gaining popularity as consumers become more environmentally conscious. Unfortunately many people fail to consider bamboo as an option when they plan on changing their floors. However, bamboo has many benefits that makes it an extremely positive alternative to a traditional hardwood floor.
Contrary to popular belief, bamboo is not an extremely rare wood that can only be found in remote parts of the world. The majority of bamboo that is used in the United States comes from Southeast Asia. This is an extremely arable land source that is able to produce large amounts of bamboo. Not only are large amounts available, bamboo is also able to re-grow extremely fast. Some species of bamboo have been known to grow more than three feet per hour. That makes bamboo the fastest growing plant on earth. It is common to harvest large quantities of bamboo, only to have the plants come begin to grow within several months. A typical bamboo plant only requires four years to reach maturity. This a stark contrast from lumber which can require around 65 years to replace a 75 foot tree.
Because of growing environmental concern, people are becoming more open to buying less damaging materials. We are currently losing around 1 million acres due to deforestation every week. For this reason, purchasing an easily renewable resource such as bamboo is less environmentally damaging than other hardwood flooring options.
Bamboo flooring has another benefit over traditional wood floor materials. Because it is so easily attainable and replenishable it is relatively inexpensive. Luckily a lower price does not mean a low quality product. Bamboo is very aesthetically appealing, and always increases the quality of the room it inhabits. It is also long lasting. Typically you can expect a 20 year life span from bamboo flooring if it is maintained regularly.
There are many benefits to installing a bamboo floor. However there are a few factors to consider before you make a final decision. For example, make sure the surface that you plan on using has been measured accurately and is not prone to induce bending in the bamboo. Make sure that you won’t be installing in an area that is inclined to flood or be exposed to water damage. Bamboo is resilient to spills mopping, however serious exposure to underlying water may cause bending.
