Timber and Bamboo Floor sanding Sydney
About a generation ago, in the 1990s, builders started using bamboo as a flooring material. Bamboo had some advantages, but as is often the case with a new material there were some problems when it was first used.
There were a few advantages to bamboo. It was moderately priced and could be processed to look like many different hardwoods. Furthermore, it grew extremely quickly, so it was an environmentally friendly and renewable source.
Unfortunately, bamboo flooring was prone to scratching, at least on the surface. The main body of the bamboo planks were quite stable, comparable to good quality wood, but the top surface was easily scratched.
The situation improved over time, and bamboo was given a protective coating that largely prevented scratching at least for a few years. So new bamboo flooring was notable better than old.
But an ongoing disadvantage of bamboo flooring is that it cannot be re-sanded. Hardwood can have the very top removed by re-sanding, exposing a fresh woodgrain surface. But bamboo is made of fibres. Any attempt at re-sanding will destroy the top protective layer and simply expose the rough fibres beneath.
One promising possibility is strand woven bamboo. This is much harder that earlier type of bamboo flooring, being highly compressed when manufactured.
If you are interested in bamboo flooring then stand woven bamboo seems the most durable option.
Hardwood timber remains the best option for long term flooring. It will last for decades, even when re-sanded.
Alternatively, cheaper flooring options can be used and replaced after a generation, though these will not have the appearance, natural appeal or selling advantage of good hardwood.
Have your hardwood floors periodically re-sanded, and essentially have a new floor.
