Bamboo is a popular material for flooring, usually used as a replacement for hardwood. Mostly imported from china, bamboo is derived from an evergreen plant, making it the most environmental friendly material for flooring. Although it is quite similar to hardwood in appearance, and does serve to be its ideal replacement, Architect in Pakistan suggest that you should carefully consider all the advantages and disadvantages of the material before you select it. Here are some facts about bamboo flooring that you should be aware of:

Bamboo flooring is green

As mentioned above, bamboo is the most environmental friendly material for flooring. Since the bamboo plant is evergreen, harvesting and reaping it is easier as compared to hardwood. Many types of hardwood is derived from plants that either grow annually or once in two years, making their harvesting difficult. Since bamboo grows throughout the year, there are no environmental issues associated with it.

It requires Low maintainace

Another reason why many architects in Pakistan choose bamboo flooring is that the material is very easy to maintain. As compared to hardwood, bamboo can be easily cleaned and does not require any extra effort. You can simply wipe it or vacuum it once in a while to remove debris. For enhanced cleaning, you can use a non-waxed cleanser.

Bamboo is very resistant to water

Although hardwood is quite resistant to water, it is advised to not use it in bathroom and kitchen. But bamboo can be used in these rooms because of it resistant nature. The wood can bear water stains and marks without getting damaged.

It is strong and very durable

Just like hardwood, bamboo is very strong. It is prone to high traffic and can withstand weather changes. It can be used as a flooring material for any room because it can last for years without getting damaged.

It looks beautiful

There is no doubt that bamboo flooring looks extremely classy and beautiful. It is usually light brown in color and has vertical and flat grains. It gives a really ethnic and elegant look to the room. Although it does have a striking resemblance to the hardwood, it has a special look of its own.

Bamboo is not very scratch resistant

Despite of being strong, durable and resistant to water, bamboo is prone to scratches and tear. As compared to hardwood that is very resistant towards scratches, keeping your bamboo floor free of scrapes is very difficult. It can be easily cleaned, but high heels, table legs and pet claws can easily damage the floor.

Mold can grow on bamboo

Even though bamboo is resistant to water marks and can withstand water, it is not advised by many Architect in Lahore because bamboo might not stand the humid weather during the monsoon season. The reason for this is that too much moisture retained in the wood can allow the wood to become soft, making way for mold.

Bamboo is indeed a very good choice for flooring, but before you select it, you should consider all its pros and cons carefully.