Bamboo Flooring Dos and Don’ts

Beautiful, long-lasting, and environmentally sustainable, bamboo flooring can enliven interior spaces with its unique attractiveness and practicality. Along with being aesthetically appealing, bamboo flooring is durable and easy to maintain. As with any flooring decision, there are some things to consider when shopping for bamboo flooring. Here are some important bamboo flooring dos and don’ts:

• Consider the area where you wish to install your bamboo floor and make sure that it isn’t prone to excessive moisture. Although bamboo flooring is moisture resistant, excessive moisture can cause damage.
• Consult the terms and conditions of your bamboo flooring purchase, including all warranty and installation information.
• Ensure that your sub-floor is clean, dry, and level before installing your bamboo floor.
• Inspect all boxes of bamboo flooring for any damaged planks before starting your flooring project.
• Allow your bamboo to “acclimate” in the area where the installation will take place. Open all boxes and allow the bamboo to expand and contract accordingly to the interior humidity levels.
• Use of a tapping block will help to minimize any fracturing during installation.
• Expect an average 7-9% wastage factor when placing an order for bamboo flooring, depending on the experience level of the installer.
• Use dry or damp (not doused) mops, brooms and vacuums to keep your bamboo flooring clear of dirt and grit, which have the potential to scratch the finish of your bamboo flooring.
• Use runners and mats at strategic points to guard against dirt and moisture from the outdoors.
• Be aware of spills and clean them up as soon as possible.

• Over wet your bamboo floor – this can lead to long term damage.
• Use detergent, steel wool or other abrasives to clean your bamboo flooring.
• Install your bamboo flooring in a bathroom, sauna or enclosed veranda. These areas are prone to high levels of moisture, which may void your warranty in some cases.
• Install your bamboo floor in an area prone to intense sunlight. Despite its UV protection, bamboo flooring is subject to fading when exposed.
• Walk on your bamboo floor with athletic spikes or high heels.

For more details on how to install and maintain a bamboo floor, it’s helpful to talk directly with the professionals. Valuable resources include contractors with experience installing bamboo floors, and BuildDirect’s knowledgeable product experts. They can also help you be the best ally for your bamboo floor to ensure it has a long life.