Bamboo and Hardwood Floors

     Bamboo and hardwood flooring are beautiful and eco-friendly assets to every home. Contemporary floors and carpets can contain high amounts of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which contribute to indoor air pollution. It is easy to see why conscious consumers want flooring that is functional and safe.

     If you are buying a hardwood floor, it is important to know that the wood that is being purchased is truly “green”. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies wood that comes from sustainably managed forests. FSC certified wood promises that the forests are regenerated, biodiversity is preserved, and air and water quality are minimally affected. FSC certified woods come in all sorts of beautiful wood types. Many shades and styles are available. There are several manufacturers who carry FSC certified wood. Their products can be purchased at many “green” building supply centers. Greenfloors.com and certifiedwood.org are great resources to check on FSC certified wood before beginning a flooring project.

     Bamboo is another great flooring to use. Surprisingly, bamboo isn’t a wood at all. It is a grass that regenerates quickly. It is one of the most sustainable flooring materials to use because of that property. Bamboo isn’t the knobby, pale thing that most people imagine. It comes in many shades and colors and can be made smooth. Unlike wood it doesn’t require any harsh chemicals to stain it darker. A process called smoking causes the darker color. It is naturally resistant to water, mildew, and insects. . Bamboo is also popular because it is 13% harder than maple wood floors and 27% harder than northern red oak floors. It lasts longer and can withstand more use than conventional hardwood floors. Prices are comparable to hardwood floors. The maintenance of a bamboo floor is minimal. It is so thick that it doesn’t require much refinishing. A touch up requires only a common floor finish.

      Most of the bamboo we use comes from China, where it has been used for thousands of years, but the average consumer doesn’t have to go very far to make their home more eco-friendly. Retailers like IKEA now carry these products. There are even do-it-yourself options avavilable for bamboo. 

     Eco-Friendly flooring is a very good way to “green” up any home, especially with the many beautiful varieties that are afforable and safe.