Introduction
Bamboo Flooring 101 01:02
Watch an Overview Video
Step 1
Tools & Materials
Bamboo flooring
Underlayment
Bamboo nailer or glue
Flooring nails or cleats
Chalk line
Level
Step 2
Facts about Bamboo Flooring
Bamboo flooring is usually less expensive than hardwoods like oak, maple, or hickory and is just as hard.
There are two basic types of bamboo boards: solid bamboo is made of strips pressed together; engineered is thin layers glued to other woods and tends to be stronger than solid.
Both types come in three styles: horizontal bamboo is strips layered with glue for knuckled look of bamboo grass; vertical is glued strips turned on side for linear look; woven is fiber strands compressed without glue to form exotic patterns.
Install bamboo as you would hardwood.
Pro Tip
Bamboo is a form of giant grass that matures in five years and doesn’t need replanting.
Horizontal and vertical bamboo are more traditional, while strand bamboo offers a greater variety of colors.
Bamboo’s insect- and water-resistance makes it good choice for basement or kitchen.