“Going Green” is something that is very important in the world today.  Whether or not you believe in global warming, we must start to preserve for future generations.  Wood takes a very long time until a tree is fully regrown and must be replanted.  Bamboo is a grass that peaks in less than 5 years and that same plant can be used over and over again without actually having to replant it.

When installing a bamboo floor, the most important part, as it is with any floor, is the preparation process.  The sub-floor must be flat, smooth and dry.  You can install bamboo flooring over a variety of sub-floors.  If you install over a previous floor or plywood sub-floor it is probably best to nail/ staple or float it.  The majority of experts seem to think nails/ staples are the best method.  If you are installing a bamboo floor over concrete, glue is the best method available.  One very important step not mentioned above is to let the bamboo (or any floor) acclimate to the temperature/ moisture level of your home for a minimum of 24 hours but preferably 48-72 hours prior to installation.

Once the floor is prepared and you are ready to buy the flooring, you want to make sure you purchase some additional flooring for cuts and also for mistakes on your part.  After the flooring has been purchased, it is always best to do a layout of the floor prior to nailing/gluing the floor to the sub-floor.  This just makes sure you have made the proper cuts, you like the design, etc…  If you do not want to lay out the entire bamboo floor, at least lay out a portion to see how it looks and lays out.

Always make sure you follow the manufacturer’s directions so you do not lose the warranty.  Bamboo floors are easy to maintain, but it is possible to dent or scratch.  Take the standard precautions as you would with any floor.  There are products you can buy from the manufacturer or local hardware store to help you get scratches/ scuff marks out.