Bamboo?

[rebobinar]

I've seen bamboo flooring advertised online at $1.99/sq ft. Does anyone have an opinion on bamboo? If not that, I'll probably look at Pergo. I'd love to know if anyone has used it before, likes it, doesn't like it, or has any reservations with ordering it online rather than from a showroom.

Thanks, Robin

[Rich]

I've never personally used but had several acquantances that have. They said it wasn't all that great. Major complaint was cupping. I don't know why or from what.

[kdfisher]

Cupping with bamboo flooring is usually a result of improper adhesives used with gluedowns. Too often people won't read the specifications. While bamboo floors are quite stable(depending on product) they are sensitive to water based adhesives. A little more on bamboo flooring; the darker types(many names) are much softer due to the way the color is achieved(pressure steamed). Natural types tend to show dirst more readily.

Be careful with bamboo today as there are many, many types on the market. $ 1.99 is a great price, but often it's virgin bamboo.

[dietoself]

Bamboo carbonized is very soft and my wife and I are seeking legal advice after getting ignored by the dealer. The indentions and scratches are beyond anything you might imagine for a "wood" floor. Not harder than oak. Not harder than maple. This is a nightmare. Buyer beware!!!

[nightice]

I just bought over 600 sf today. I do not know anyone here that has it to ask if they like it or not. I got the natural (uncarbonized), so maybe this is what they mean "harder than..." I'll find out. I bought the vertical, to me it looks great. On the install, I'll probably nail it down. Any suggestions??

[blogtim]

Bamboo is really nice, but $1.99/sq ft sounds way too cheap. I would be careful.

[Animal AKA Will]

No wonder they say the scariest plant in the jungle is bam-boo.

[montytx]

I looked at it at a flooring store around the corner and thought it looked like a great option in the right house. Seems like a really solid plank.