Can You Whitewash Bamboo Floors? All Answers

How to clean bamboo floors

Bamboo flooring is just as durable as hardwoods like oak and maple and more resistant to water damage than most woods. Available in a variety of styles, colors and finishes, this type of flooring is a great alternative to hardwood with the same natural appeal. Apart from the aesthetics and the fact that it is often cheaper to install, cleaning bamboo floors is relatively easy.

The main cause of deterioration of a wooden floor is tiny particles of dust and dirt that get into the room from people’s shoes. When these tiny particles accumulate and constantly walk on them, they can dig into the surface of the floor causing dents, dents or even scratches and give the bamboo a faded appearance.

This can be prevented by regular floor cleaning. Bamboo floors can be attacked by harsh detergents and cleaning agents, so you should always use pH-neutral cleaning agents. It’s also important to avoid cleaning with oil soap, ammonia-based detergents, wax-based products, bleach, and acidic materials like vinegar, as these can also damage the bamboo.

Although bamboo is more resistant to water damage than regular hardwood floors, it is still a natural material made up of organic elements, making it susceptible to warping and mold growth when excessive moisture is present. For this reason, only wipe with a damp, almost dry mop for cleaning. Never wet or steam mop your bamboo floor.

Simple Green Multi-Surface Floor Care cleans all hard floor surfaces with dull residue. The cleaner dries quickly, leaving a stain and streak-free finish that allows the natural beauty of the floor to shine through. Powerful plant-based extracts, essential oils and minerals are used in place of petroleum distillates, ammonia and chlorine commonly found in other floor cleaners.

How to color your bamboo fence

Popular question: Can you dye bamboo?

Bamboo is an attractive and sturdy product that can be used for a variety of construction or decorative applications. Bamboo is a popular building material because it can be easily stained or painted to match any decor. Although bamboo can be painted, it is much prettier when stained. Whichever method you use, we can all agree that bamboo is an ideal building material for many architects and contractors.

Bamboo’s natural color is beautiful, and many decorators and builders choose to keep it as it comes straight from nature. However, with so many bamboo stain colors, using natural bamboo becomes even more versatile. With a little bit of bamboo staining, it is possible to enhance the natural beauty of bamboo.

How to color your bamboo fence

Step one

Natural bamboo has a protective layer of wax that prevents paint or stain from being evenly absorbed. Fine grit sandpaper is required to easily sand and remove the wax layer. Therefore, grind the bamboo until there is no longer any shine on the surface. Remember that with the protective layer still in place the stain or paint will not last and your bamboo will appear mottled. Therefore, it is very important to grind your bamboo before dyeing.

step two

Once the surface of the bamboo is completely wax-free, use a paint brush to apply a thin coat of stain or paint. A favorite when staining bamboo is rubbing the stain with a dry cloth. Allow sufficient time for the stain or paint to dry between coats. Follow the instructions of the product you bought.

If you use stain, remember to wipe off the excess right after applying each coat. This way you get a smoother, more perfect finish. The goal of dying bamboo is to bring out its natural beauty. Therefore it is possible to overdye bamboo.

step three

Once each coat is dry, lightly sand before applying the next coat to help the next one adhere better.

After the last stain is dry, you can seal the bamboo. One to two coats of varnish or sealer are recommended for a more natural look.

Again, you can sand lightly between the applied layers so that the seal adheres better.

Benefits of Natural Bamboo

The Tre-Gai and Solid Bamboo species are versatile and robust.

Since amaZulu’s bamboo products are pressure treated, they are also durable.

If desired, a flame retardant can be added at the time of pressure treatment for additional safety.

It creates an authentic atmosphere for your installations.

Natural coloring also contributes to this authenticity.

Are you ready to use bamboo?

If you are interested in using bamboo, we are happy to help!

For more information on our Bamboo products, contact us today or call us toll-free at 877-243-5309.

Related content and products:

Construction grade bamboo

Bamboo: Straight to the source

Wide woven bamboo board

The origins of bamboo

Why is it good for the environment?

amaZulu, Inc. has handpicked manufacturers that produce environmentally friendly, high quality natural building materials. Our selection presents a dynamic list of options with the environment in mind.

At amaZulu, Inc., we extend our legacy beyond business to the community when we partner with national and international organizations that create economic opportunities to reduce poverty. We help improve the lives of the people who grow and manufacture our products.

Keywords: Solid bamboo poles

Bamboo floors have become increasingly popular over the years. Each year bamboo flooring trends change with the fashion and styles of home decor and interior design. For 2021, the popularity of bamboo parquet blocks has already risen, but gray and textured bamboo floors also remain popular. Bamboo is a great flooring choice for those who care about sustainability but still want a natural and durable floor. Year after year, the range of styles and colors of bamboo flooring grows, giving you a wider range of options for your home.

Here are the bamboo flooring trends of 2021:

Parquet block bamboo

Hardwood floors can really enhance the look of your space. Bamboo parquet block is available in 4 different colors and can be installed in different ways. The most popular laying pattern is herringbone, but you can also create basket weave and brick bond styles. Our Bamboo Hardwood Flooring is made from strand-woven bamboo, which is more than twice the strength of oak hardwood floors, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas in your home or workplace.

Natural bamboo parquet floor

Strand-woven bamboo

Beachwoven bamboo flooring continues to be a popular choice among homeowners and businesses. It’s a strong and durable floor that looks fantastic, is easy to maintain and extremely versatile. You can use strand-woven bamboo in almost any room in your home, commercial, with underfloor heating, on a staircase and even in a conservatory. There’s a huge range of styles and colors to choose from, so there’s bound to be something that catches your eye.

Braided bamboo bottom made from chestnut strands

Gray Bamboo

Gray bamboo floors have been trending for years. It really suits a modern and minimalist home and gives you a fresh and clean look. Our stone gray is a medium tone that adds character and charm. Our Pebble Bamboo is a pale gray tone to give a fresh and contemporary feel. Both are available in country house look and block parquet.

Stone gray parquet block bamboo

Bamboo on a stair

Having bamboo flooring on your stairs has been an option for years, but lately it’s becoming increasingly popular. We’ve seen some amazing and stunning stairs with our bamboo flooring. All you need is a matching (or contrasting) bamboo stair nosing. Cladding your stairs with bamboo can really add flow to your home.

Bamboo flooring on a staircase

Distressed Bamboo Floor

Distressed or textured bamboo floors continue to be a trend for 2021. Gone are the years of high gloss, glossy bamboo or wood floors. A more textured and natural look seems to be more popular. We have a range of bamboo floors with different surface finishes that can really add character and charm to your home, whether it’s a modern interior or a country cottage style.

As a flooring material, bamboo shares many of the same advantages and disadvantages as hardwood floors. Like hardwood floors, bamboo is an attractive natural material that generally adds real estate value to a home. But like wood, bamboo can be scratched and is prone to cracking in conditions where humidity varies dramatically.

What is bamboo flooring? While the bamboo plant is a type of grass and not a tree, bamboo flooring behaves similarly to wood flooring – it can even be finished in the same way. Bamboo is just as hard as most hardwoods and very resistant to moisture.

Bamboo will be most appealing to consumers interested in using natural, renewable resources. Unlike trees, which take at least 20 years to mature, a stalk of bamboo can be harvested repeatedly every five or six years. Most commercial bamboo comes from plantation-type operations that are managed responsibly.

The Spruce / Margot Cavin

Advantages Renewable material

Easy maintenance

Can be reworked

Adds property value Cons Easily scratched

Fluctuations in humidity can cause cracks

Toxins in Adhesives

1:45 Watch now: Pros and cons of bamboo floors

Production of bamboo parquet

There are different types of bamboo flooring, each with its own manufacturing process.

Beach bamboo is made by shredding the bamboo stalks into small strands, which are pressed into sheets using heat and resin binders, and then cut into planks to use as building material. This type of flooring is available both as a nailed tongue and groove plank and as a floating plank on the underlay. This is a premium form of bamboo flooring that comes in many colors.

Horizontal bamboo floors are made by cutting the strands into thin strips, which are then glued together into planks. This type of flooring has a “grain” pattern because the long stem fibers are visible in the flooring. This type of bamboo is not as hard or durable as stranded bamboo but can have a very striking appearance. It is also available both as a nailed plank and as a floating plank.

Bamboo engineered wood flooring is made by gluing a thin layer of bamboo onto a plywood or MDF core. This flooring is comparable to parquet and is installed in the same way – usually with click-lock planks floating over a foam underlay. It is the cheapest (and least durable) form of bamboo flooring and cannot be post-treated.

Unless stained, most bamboo floors are a natural blonde or amber color similar to untreated maple or birch, but darker tones are available through a process called carbonization, which involves exposing the planks to high temperatures. While the color can be very attractive, carbonized bamboo is softer than uncarbonized forms and more prone to scratching.

environmental friendliness

Eco-conscious consumers are often drawn to bamboo as a fully renewable resource. Unlike the hardwood industry, where trees can take decades to mature, bamboo stems grow so quickly that harvesting practices are hardly environmentally driven. Additionally, cut bamboo stalks simply continue to grow and regenerate so they can be harvested.

But the manufacturing process creates other environmental problems. Bamboo flooring is made by slicing or shredding the stalks of bamboo grass plants and then pressing the pulp back together using heat, pressure and a resin-based adhesive identical to that used in many other flooring products . This adhesive often contains urea formaldehyde, which can outgas into the air.

The amount of glue used and the amount of toxins released will vary depending on how the bamboo boards are made. Cheaper products may contain more formaldehyde, while more expensive products may use alternative materials in the resins. The amount of formaldehyde used in bamboo flooring is similar to that found in parquet or MDF paneling and it tends to only be a problem for sensitive individuals. But if this worries you, look for bamboo products that are labeled as formaldehyde-free.

Bamboo flooring cost

This material is priced about the same as most hardwood floors. You can find bamboo flooring from around $2 to $8 per square foot, with a national average of $3.84 per square foot. The installation costs for bamboo parquet are similar to hardwood parquet. On average, you’ll need to add about $4 per square foot for installation labor in addition to the cost of materials. You should be able to install a good quality bamboo for less than $10 per square foot, including materials and labor.

If you are a DIY enthusiast, be aware that there is no independent system to rate the quality of bamboo materials in the same way as hardwood. Retailers often sort lots into Class A and B materials, but this is an arbitrary system that means different things to different retailers. It is therefore important to find a quality, reputable flooring retailer to ensure you are getting the highest quality material.

maintenance and repair

Bamboo is relatively easy to care for. Simply sweep or vacuum regularly to remove small debris. You can also occasionally damp mop it or clean it with a wax-free, non-alkaline hardwood or bamboo floor cleaner.

Compared to hardwood, bamboo is slightly more resistant to water damage. And bamboo is a little harder than many hardwoods, making it a little more resistant to scratches and dents. However, this is not a waterproof or scratch-resistant material. Be sure to protect the floor from standing water and from scratches. Because it is an organic material, mold can attack bamboo when water is present. Bamboo can discolor if it gets too much direct sunlight, so it’s best to use blinds or blinds in rooms with direct sunlight.

Over time, bamboo flooring can become discolored, scratched, or damaged. Fortunately, the surface of this material can usually be refinished by sanding it down and then reapplying layers of sealer. However, engineered bamboo flooring cannot usually be post-treated.

Humidity affects bamboo a little more than parquet. If the flooring is installed in a very humid climate, the moisture in the air can cause the floorboards to swell and warp, while in a dry environment they can shrink. In extremely high or extremely low humidity conditions, bamboo floors are more likely to crack than hardwood floors.

draft

Bamboo is a trendy flooring material that can increase the elegance of a space almost instantly. It has a look and feel similar to hardwood, yet is distinctive and different. Like cork floors, bamboo is a good material for consumers who like something special or want to make a statement with a renewable raw material. Aesthetically, bamboo suits almost any style of home, although it is best suited to contemporary settings.

Installation of bamboo floors

Bamboo flooring comes in different types of products:

Solid bamboo boards are installed in a similar way to solid hardwood. The tongue and groove boards are usually blind nailed to the subfloor through the edge of the boards. Solid bamboo planks can also be glued to an existing concrete floor. Installation of nailed or glued bamboo boards is usually done by professionals.

There are also thinner solid bamboo shapes designed to be laid floating on the floor. Floating bamboo floors sometimes use a modified tongue-and-groove system known as “click-lock” in which the edges of the boards mechanically interlock. Or the planks can have a standard tongue and groove design where the edges of the planks are glued together. In any case, the entire floor rests on a thin layer of foam padding, with no permanent connection to the subfloor. This installation method is easier for do-it-yourselfers and also has the advantage of allowing the floor to expand and contract as humidity changes.

Technical bamboo is made with a surface veneer bonded to a plywood or MDF core. These products always use the click-lock floating installation method. Faux bamboo is cheaper than solid bamboo and is usually installed by do-it-yourselfers.

Most bamboo flooring products are pre-treated at the factory, but if not, the flooring will need to be sealed with a urethane product after installation. Raw bamboo boards can also be stained with urethane sealer before top coating.

Bamboo vs hardwood floor

Because bamboo and hardwood floors have similar properties and costs, making a choice between the two is not always easy. Bamboo is typically a lighter color than most hardwoods, although you can find darker versions that have been “carbonized”. Bamboo also has a more consistent texture and grain pattern, unlike hardwood where each board has a unique grain pattern. Finally, bamboo is a more sustainable resource as it is harvested from living shoots that regrow. No forests are cut down for the production of bamboo floors. That being said, there are many similarities between these two types of flooring – both need to be sealed against water, both are somewhat prone to scratches and both are considered high quality natural flooring that will enhance your home.

The Spruce / Luyi Wang

Top brands of bamboo floors

Most of the major parquet manufacturers also stock a range of bamboo flooring products. For the best selection and product quality, however, it is advisable to look around at the manufacturers specializing in bamboo:

Plyboo: This company uses a soy-based resin that contains no formaldehyde. It’s a more expensive product (up to $6 per square foot), but these products are among the most beautiful of all bamboo floors and are also the healthiest.

Cali Bamboo Flooring: This company sells more than 30 different bamboo flooring products including both solid bamboo and engineered bamboo in various colors. This also includes some bamboo flooring products that are designed to perform well in high humidity situations.

Terregren: This company is known for its sustainable farming practices and good management of its workforce. The products made of bamboo are among the highest quality.

Ambient Bamboo Floors: This company makes formaldehyde-free floors. Most of its offerings are made from stranded bamboo, which creates a very eye-catching look.

comfort and convenience

In most cases, bamboo floors behave similarly to hardwood. These floors are mostly non-allergenic, although some people with chemical sensitivities may react to the small amounts of formaldehyde and VOCs present in the resins. If this is your situation, there are some very good bamboo flooring products that omit these chemicals.

Can you refinish bamboo floors? Here’s how

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Updated February 22, 2022

Wondering if you can refinish bamboo floors? Don’t worry – we hear this question all the time.

Perhaps you’re looking at bamboo flooring as a non-toxic alternative to laminate flooring and want to know how long you can expect it to last.

Or maybe you already have bamboo floors that you love but they need a little maintenance.

Either way, yes – you absolutely can refinish bamboo floors! But – it totally depends on the type of bamboo flooring you have (or want to buy).

Whatever the case, you’ve come to the right place. Below we have put together a complete guide with all the information you need to know about refinishing bamboo floors.

We’ll go through the different types of bamboo flooring, explain which of these bamboo floors can be refinished (and how), and even give you step-by-step instructions on how to refinish these amazing floors. Let’s start!

Bamboo flooring basics

Bamboo is sometimes thought of as a type of artificial wood flooring. We understand that, since bamboo isn’t actually made out of wood (it’s technically a grass).

That being said, bamboo flooring is made – and behaves – the same as other types of wood floors. So we prefer to think of it as an alternative to hardwood floors.

Can you refinish bamboo floors in general?

However you think about it, bamboo floors are similar in function and appearance to wood floors. You can even use it to create timeless wood floor patterns like herringbone parquet!

So yes – you can refinish bamboo floors the same way you would refinish hardwood floors.

That being said, there are different types of bamboo floors. And each of them has different post-processing considerations.

The 3 main types of bamboo floors

Bamboo floors are all made from bamboo stalks, but the way they are constructed can change the look dramatically.

None of these types are better or worse than the others, and many of the top hardwood flooring brands sell all three. Some, like Proximity Mills, even make ultra-high-density bamboo flooring, giving you even more bang for your buck (talk about some of the best dog flooring).

Basically, if you want to refinish bamboo floors, any of these three options will work just fine.

1. Horizontal bamboo floor

Horizontal bamboo flooring is perhaps the most popular of the three options. It consists of bamboo poles that are glued horizontally to form a board. When you think of bamboo flooring, you probably picture this guy.

2. Vertical bamboo floor

Vertical bamboo floors are also made from thin strips of bamboo, but the strips are glued together vertically (you guessed it). Because of the way it’s glued together, you’ll see more lines on this type. It also has a more modern, streamlined look.

3. Strand-woven bamboo flooring

Beachwoven bamboo is not made from bamboo strips. Rather, it consists of stalks that have been chopped into fibers and then joined together with glue. This mixture is then pressed into blocks under pressure and heat.

This process makes strand-woven bamboo durable. How incredibly durable. Even more durable than the most durable wooden floor. In fact, strand-woven bamboo scores almost twice as well as ash floors on the Janka hardness scale!

Translation: You don’t need to refinish rope-woven bamboo floors as often because they’re so dent and scratch resistant, but they can be a little harder to sand down if you do. However, not much.

Solid vs engineered bamboo flooring

Like hardwood, bamboo comes in both solid and engineered versions. Solid planks are made entirely of bamboo, while Engineered planks feature a bamboo veneer attached to a plywood or fiberboard core.

While we recommend looking into some of the pros and cons of bamboo hardwood floors, the best bamboo hardwood floor has the same pros and cons as the best wooden hardwood floor. So you can think about them in the same way.

Can you refinish engineered bamboo floors?

The short answer: sometimes.

As with wood, bamboo can be some of the easiest flooring to install (if you buy it as click together flooring). But like wood, you can only refinish bamboo if the veneer is thick enough for it.

How thick exactly? As a general rule of thumb, you can refinish bamboo flooring with a veneer thicker than 2mm – but you may only be able to refinish it once.

And if you don’t have that thick layer of veneer, you might not be able to refinish it at all. We know – it’s one of the most annoying disadvantages of engineered wood there is.

In any case, we recommend speaking to a specialist at your local flooring store if this is a problem. They can give you all the details of their specific technical products, including how many times they can be reworked.

But don’t worry, you probably don’t have to

We should also add that finishing is much less of an issue (rather than hardly an issue) if you buy your wood or bamboo pre-treated. Why?

The best hardwood flooring brands feature UV-cured surfaces, which usually contain aluminum oxide, which is an extremely durable substance — meaning scratches have a really, really, really hard time penetrating it. The best you need to do with these floors is a simple refinish that doesn’t involve sanding.

Carbonized vs. non-carbonized (natural) bamboo flooring

Various types of technical bamboo

Another thing to keep in mind when refinishing bamboo flooring is the difference between carbonized and non-carbonized (natural) products.

Uncarbonized (natural) bamboo is a lighter color that hides dents and scratches well. Carbonized bamboo floors, on the other hand, have been processed, giving them a darker amber hue.

The downside of carbonized bamboo: It’s a bit more prone to dents. So if scratch-resistant flooring is important to you, you’re better off with a non-carbonized product.

Think of the uncarbonized versus carbonized debate as the hickory versus oak debate. Both products are great for similar applications, but differ slightly in appearance, hardness, and price.

Can you refinish carbonized bamboo floors?

Absolutely again. Remember: carbonized bamboo is slightly more prone to scratching than natural (non-carbonized) bamboo. That means it’s softer and easier to repair.

But we understand. Some people want a hardwood floor alternative that is both dark and super hard. To do this, we recommend that you delve into the vinyl plank vs. laminate flooring debate. One (or both) of these options might be what you are looking for.

Will post-processing carbonized bamboo lighten its color?

no The good news is that carbonized bamboo is the same color throughout the plank. Even if you sand and refinish it, it will keep the same beautiful color!

Do bamboo floors scratch easily?

Scratches can occur on bamboo, but are more common on carbonized products (especially horizontal or vertical planks).

But overall, keep calm. All of these products are very durable and most people never need to refinish bamboo floors they have purchased.

Remember, if you decide to purchase click together floating flooring, you may need to refinish your bamboo flooring more often. One of the major disadvantages of floating floors is that they can wear out a little quicker than other types of floors.

How do you get scratches out of bamboo floors?

Once you have scratches, the only way to remove them is to sand down and repaint your floor! We will go into it step by step below.

Can you use stains when refinishing bamboo floors?

Secure! Staining bamboo floors is similar to staining other hardwoods.

You can even use stain to change the original color of your bamboo floors. Would you like the dark, moody look of an ebony floor? Simply varnish your bamboo floor with an ebony stain!

Want the look of hickory flooring but don’t want to deal with the actual pros and cons of hickory flooring? Color your bamboo! The natural grain of bamboo is just as interesting as that of hickory.

Remember: strand-woven bamboo is very difficult to dye

Strand woven is the only type of bamboo that is difficult to dye and should be avoided. Vertical and horizontal bamboo, on the other hand, take stains very well.

All in all, we would always recommend dying a test area to make sure you like the look before committing to dying the entire floor.

What are some other reasons to renovate bamboo floors?

Bamboo’s ability to mimic other wood species with a simple post-processing makes it a premier wood flooring alternative.

Plus, because bamboo is very durable, it’s also a great alternative for hard-wearing floors (like vinyl planks). There are definitely some downsides to vinyl plank flooring to think about – like the fact that low VOC vinyl flooring is quite uncommon – so bamboo makes a great substitute. Plus, you can post-process it to look like any LVT product!

Should you hire a professional to refinish bamboo floors?

Now let’s just get that out of the way: unless you’re an experienced DIYer, we recommend hiring a professional to finish your bamboo floors.

Finishing super hard floors like bamboo is more difficult than finishing softwoods like Douglas fir or pine. And if you’ve read the ins and outs of Douglas fir (or even the ins and outs of pine floors), you know that a wood’s softness makes it only slightly easier to finish.

Translation: Post-processing bamboo is not easy.

If you’ve googled “what is a subfloor” in the past, you may not have the right amount of experience or knowledge to properly tackle this project. But as I said…

How to repair bamboo floors: the step-by-step guide

If you’re a master DIYer and ready to give your bamboo floors a makeover, we salute you. Here are a few tips and tools to help you be successful.

cleaning supplies

Fine grit sandpaper

grinding machine

rag or brush

Mask, gloves and goggles

spot

sealer

Step 1: Prepare your room

It is extremely important to start with a clean workspace. Make sure you tape off the room to prevent the dust from getting elsewhere in your house. We would also recommend renting a shop vacuum for the same reason. Even the most eco-friendly flooring can create dust that you don’t want to breathe.

Step 2: Sand it down

The good news is that you only need to sand down the top layer. When using the grinder, you don’t need to apply too much pressure. If the sawdust is white, you’re good. If it’s darker, decrease the pressure.

Step 3: Clean the floor and check for splinters

After sanding, it is important to thoroughly clean the area again. Just look for splinters and make sure the area is completely clear. Vacuuming works best to remove all dust from the floor.

Step 4: Fill in any scratches

When the area is cleared, you can see if there are any scratches that you need to spend extra time on. If there are deep grooves, putty putty fills in those spots.

Step 5: Apply the stain

Now it’s time to color. Make sure you test the stain on a small spot before applying it to the entire floor. You should use two layers and wait a few hours between applications to allow them to dry. Some people apply the stain with a rag and wipe it off, others use a brush.

Step 6: Apply finishing coats

Once the stain is applied and dried you can seal it with a polyurethane finish. Just like with the stain, you should apply 2 coats and allow time to dry in between. This final step makes the floor abrasion resistant and helps keep everything looking brand new – even heavily trafficked muddy floors.

And remember: wear the right PPE to avoid dust inhalation!

If you’ve read about low VOC flooring, you may already be familiar with some of the chemicals commonly used in flooring. Some bamboo floors even contain formaldehyde – which you certainly don’t want to breathe in.

Bamboo may be one of the most sustainable wood flooring options, but it’s not guaranteed to be free of VOCs — so wear plenty of PPE (personal protective equipment) and keep dust at bay when cleaning.

How much does it cost to renovate bamboo floors?

The cost of refinishing bamboo floors depends on a number of factors. When you hire someone, it often costs around $3 per square foot. If you do it yourself, you can expect to spend $1 to $2 per square foot depending on the tool rental and the products you choose.

But these are really just rough estimates — actual costs will vary based on location, room size, and a thousand other things.

However: if you compare the cost of installing parquet floors with the cost of refinishing bamboo floors, it is clear that refinishing is the cheaper option.

Cleaning and care tips for bamboo floors

Be sure to keep your floors free of dust and dirt to avoid scratches. By sweeping and cleaning with a damp mop once a week, you will help protect your bamboo floors and make them last.

The other key to keeping your bamboo floors in good condition is to clean up spills as soon as possible. Keep in mind that some types of floor tile can handle sedentary damp, but bamboo and other woods cannot. The one exception to this rule is teak, but there are countless other pros and cons of teak floors to worry about.

Ultimately, caring for bamboo floors is no different than caring for other hardwood flooring alternatives such as cork or hemp flooring. But it’s always good to check the fine print on the product you choose!

Anyone who has informed themselves about the disadvantages of cork floors, for example, knows that they have to be sealed every few years. Bamboo just needs to be kept clean and dry and it will last. Don’t worry about how to refinish bamboo floors, but how to prevent bamboo floors from having to be refinished.

And how long do bamboo floors last?

Most manufacturers offer lifetime structural warranties – which is a huge bonus. Bamboo surfaces can last up to 25 years before needing replacement if properly cared for.

So: are you ready to buy or refinish bamboo flooring?

Are you still undecided whether to refinish your bamboo floor or buy new floors? Maybe you’ve read some incredible Pergo reviews or seen the latest RevWood products and want to consider them? Or do you not yet feel up to the challenge or repainting your floor?

Whatever the case, don’t worry! You have countless options. Bamboo is beautiful, strong and eco-friendly flooring – but it’s not your only choice. The best flooring for your home is the one that meets all of your needs.

Our advice? Find a flooring store near you to get expert advice. Local flooring retailers know everything about floors. And they can answer questions and make recommendations based on your specific needs, whether you’re looking for the most popular rug brands or getting advice on the best kitchen flooring. You are the interlocutor.

And if you want more information about different types of flooring, read:

5 colors to combine with bamboo

1. Green

– Green is an obvious first choice to partner with Bamboo. Our natural yellow Moso bamboo from China is the ideal complement with its pale yellow ‘blonde’ colour. Not sure what kind of green to use? Choose yellow-green tones to complement the bamboo. This creates a soft and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a modern space with a fashionable nod to nature.

2. Pink

If the space you’re designing needs some warmth and excitement, then coral might be your color. Often referred to as salmon pink, this vibrant pinkish-orange can enhance a dining area such as a breakfast bar or an alcove in a kitchen. Coral is cozy and intimate without being stuffy. Combined with natural or caramel tones of bamboo, it can bring a fresh, modern vibe to a room. Use with Speckled or Javan Black Bamboo for a bohemian or ethnic look.

3. Brown

Imagine the color of terracotta tiles, old red bricks and spice powders piled high. These are the auburn tones making a comeback for interiors this spring and summer. What better partner for bamboo than hues inspired by the earth it grows on? Use it to liven up a corner of the patio with painted furniture, walls, raised beds, or giant planters next to black bamboo fences.

4. Yellow

Yellow, or more specifically ocher tones, might feel too close to bamboo at first, but try alongside some Indonesian Tali or Chinese black or Javanese black bamboo. This muted yellow allows you to create an interior that has a quiet vibrancy that you can enjoy in a living room or study. Pair this color combo with textures rather than patterns, and incorporate a neutral color into the scheme to balance it all out.

5. Blue

Teal is key to using this shade with bamboo. Think teal, deep turquoise, and rich viridian. These colors bring a sense of calm and opulence to an interior. Paint over the dado rail and then hang our bamboo wallpaper under the dado. We recommend Burnt Honey as the best combination. Caramel bamboo boards also pair beautifully with teal to make shelving and furniture.

A final touch!

Instead of flat accent colors, you can add a few metallics to your color scheme: copper and gold add a touch of interest to interior and exterior projects.

There are various processes used to turn bamboo grass materials into ready-to-install bamboo planks. Each manufacturing process creates a product with specific characteristics that can make it more or less desirable in a particular environment. Understanding the options available will help you choose the type of bamboo flooring that will work best for your project.

Traditional use of bamboo in flooring

In its natural state, bamboo is the largest grass species in the world. Bamboo is a large, tubular plant and has a relatively hard outer shell that makes it suitable for some flooring even in its raw state. Traditional flooring in East Asia is made by cutting the stems into thin sheets and then nailing them to hardwood joists. This is a flooring method that is still used in some rural areas today.

Bamboo is generally processed differently in modern flooring, although modified forms of solid bamboo still have their place. While some sources list up to five different types of bamboo flooring, all types fall into two general categories: solid bamboo products, in which solid pieces or sticks of bamboo are pressed and glued together to form floorboards; and engineered bamboo floors, which consist of a relatively thin surface layer of bamboo bonded to a substrate layer of wood or high-density fiberboard (HDF).

Solid Bamboo: Vertical grain and flat grain

Solid bamboo flooring gives you the most natural look possible. The surface of materials has extremely rich properties and the most interesting patterns. Solid bamboo flooring is good for bedrooms, living rooms, home offices, dens, and can also be used in some kitchens if proper precautions are taken. This material should not be used in bathrooms or underground (basement) installations.

production method

While bamboo is quite hard in its natural state, it is also brittle and uneven and for this reason is not often used raw in modern flooring. Rather, the material is processed in such a way that the positive properties of bamboo are retained and at the same time make it more versatile.

The first step in making solid bamboo planks is to cut the blades of grass into very thin pieces. The material is skinned and then boiled in boric acid. The acid helps kill any microorganisms or bacteria that may be lurking in the bamboo and also removes any residual starches that may be left behind.

These individual discs are then coated with a special adhesive and joined together into solid pieces using heat and pressure. The way the individual chips are lined up determines the final look of the flooring. This takes one of two forms:

Flat grain: The chips are laid flat on top of each other. This results in a floor with fewer features and a more uniform appearance. This also comes closest to the actual appearance of natural bamboo materials. This is the most commonly installed type of bamboo flooring.

The chips are placed flat on top of each other. This results in a floor with fewer features and a more uniform appearance. This also comes closest to the actual appearance of natural bamboo materials. This is the most commonly installed type of bamboo flooring. Vertical graining: The individual lamellas are lined up vertically up and down and glued with pressure on both sides. While the result is still a natural bamboo look, these floors tend to have more mottled, more vibrant features on their surface. This can be great for hiding dirt or adding a more interesting look to a plain room.

After the glue has dried, the material is planed and sanded to ensure it has smooth, even surfaces on all sides. A UV varnish is then applied to support the curing process. Finally, it is sanded again to complete the finish of the material.

The flooring is sometimes stained and finished before reaching retailers for sale to consumers.

installation

Solid bamboo with both vertical and horizontal grain is usually sold as tongue and groove boards that are installed in the same way as traditional hardwood flooring: blind nailed or glued.

advantages

Solid bamboo floors can be periodically sanded and repainted if scratches or dents appear.

Because they are solid planks nailed or glued to a subfloor, these floors are rock solid with no flex underfoot.

Although they use adhesives, the risk of outgassing is lower than with strand-woven bamboo.

Disadvantages

Solid planks are a bit more difficult to lay than bamboo parquet with click fasteners.

While still tougher than most hardwood floors, flat or vertical grain solid bamboo is less durable and resilient than strand-woven.

Like all bamboo flooring, it should not be used in wet or damp spaces such as bathrooms, or in underground applications.

Solid Bamboo: Strand Woven

The other form of solid bamboo flooring is also made of planks made of bamboo top to bottom, but instead of bamboo shavings glued together, strand-woven bamboo is made from shredded bamboo that is pressed and formed into extremely dense blocks of strong material which are then used in floorboards and tiles are cut. Because the manufacturing process fully integrates the glue and bamboo, and because more glue is used per weight percent, strand-woven materials tend to be significantly stronger and more durable than solid vertical or horizontal grain bamboo.

Strand-woven solid bamboo is suitable for all relatively dry, above-ground indoor installations such as living rooms, hallways and bedrooms. It should not be used in the bathroom or basement, and be careful when using it in kitchen plumbing.

production method

The manufacture of rope-woven bamboo begins with the stalks being cut into strips and the skin removed from them. The strips are then cooked in boric acid to remove the starch and kill bugs. At this point, the stalks are placed in a shredder and processed into a thick pulp in which individual strands of bamboo are tightly woven together.

An adhesive is then mixed with the cellulose and the material is injected into a mould. There, heat and pressure are used to force the mixture into a solid thick bar. Once the glue has completely dried, the sticks are then cut into individual boards and tiles for the flooring. Tongue-and-groove boards are most common, although some strand-woven bamboo products use click-and-lock joining methods. The finished material is planed and sanded several times to ensure a smooth, level surface on each side. A finisher or stain may also be applied prior to spreading.

installation

Tongue-and-groove shapes of strand-woven solid bamboo are installed in the same way as traditional solid wood flooring – nailed or glued to a plywood or MDF sub-floor. Click-lock forms of the product are “floating” floors that are installed to float over a paper or foam underlay without being permanently bonded to the subfloor.

advantages

Strand-woven bamboo is extremely tough – it is among the toughest and most durable of all flooring materials, including hardwoods.

If scratches, dents and other imperfections appear on the surface, it can be refinished by removing a layer to leave the material looking like new. How many times it can be refinished over the years depends on the thickness of the planks or tiles.

Disadvantages

Solid planks are more difficult to install than click-and-lock engineered bamboo floors.

The adhesive used to make the material can cause the soil to release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The manufacturing process removes some of the natural bamboo features from the floor, making it look a little less natural and more processed.

Like all types of bamboo, beach fabric is only suitable for relatively dry locations. It should not be used in humid environments or below ground level.

Engineered bamboo floors

While parquet may appear to be made from solid pieces of bamboo, each piece actually contains very little natural bamboo. Rather, the floorboards consist of a relatively thin layer of natural bamboo, which adheres to a carrier layer and is provided with a wear layer on top. Ready-made parquet is extremely stable and easy to care for. It looks very much like real, natural bamboo, but without the hassle and concern. Often available as interlocking tiles and planks, it can even be installed by a layman, and individual tiles can be removed and replaced if damaged. It may also be a better form of bamboo for use in humid environments, although this should be done with caution: manufacturers can void warranties if the product is installed in commonly humid environments where water can collect.

With proper installation and maintenance, engineered bamboo can be suitable for almost any location, both above and below ground. In high-traffic areas, you may want to purchase flooring with a thicker wear layer.

production method

The bamboo for engineered bamboo floors is made in the same way as for solid strand-woven bamboo. In this case, however, no solid bamboo floorboards are cut, but thin layers of veneer from the shaped bamboo blocks. These thin sheets of processed bamboo are then glued to a base layer of cross-laminated plywood or fiberboard. A clear wearing course is applied over the natural ply coat and a waterproofing agent can be applied to the underside of the panels. From these prepared slabs, flooring planks or tiles are cut with tongue and groove or “click-lock” edges. Sold as commercial flooring.

Because of the surface wear layer and waterproof primer used, these floorings are considered more resistant to moisture and water than solid bamboo, although manufacturers rarely claim their products are truly waterproof.

installation

Engineered bamboo flooring is the one form of bamboo that is relatively easy for amateurs to install. It is usually installed as a “floating” floor laid on a foam or membrane underlay. The installation is similar to parquet or laminate. Click-Lock products are designed to hold the seams together without glue; Some tongue and groove shapes require edge bonding to hold the sides of the plank or tile together.

advantages

This is the easiest bamboo flooring product that DIYers can install themselves.

Although not waterproof, the surface wear layer and a waterproof coating on the underside of the planks make engineered bamboo more resistant to moisture than solid bamboo.

The products made with cross-laminated wood substrates are very dimensionally stable; There are rarely problems of expansion and contraction due to seasonal climate changes.

Disadvantages

You cannot refinish a constructed bamboo floor. While the wearing course is quite durable, it will degrade over time and once it does, the floor will need to be replaced.

As a “floating floor” this floor can give a little; They are not as firm underfoot as solid, nailed down bamboo.

Costs

Solid bamboo with vertical and horizontal grain typically costs $2 to $4 per square foot for materials only, while strand-woven solid bamboo is slightly higher at $3 to $5 per square foot. However, the longer lifespan of strand-woven bamboo can offset the price differences over the lifespan of the flooring.

The cost of engineered bamboo flooring is roughly comparable, ranging from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the thickness of the veneer and the quality of the top layer.

Bamboo floors are available in different designs. The finish of a floor means how the surface looks and feels. The color of bamboo flooring is determined by whether the bamboo was stained or carbonized during manufacture. The finish is the process performed to protect the bamboo flooring from daily wear and tear. Bamboo parquet is always finished with several layers of varnish. This helps preserve the beauty of the bamboo grain or pattern while making the flooring stronger and more protected. All types of bamboo flooring are prefabricated, so they are ready to use as soon as they are installed.

There are three main finishes for bamboo flooring:

With a bamboo parquet floor in a distressed look, you get a bamboo parquet floor with a structured surface. During production, the bamboo boards were brushed by hand with a wire brush. This creates the distressed and rustic look. After the planks have aged, they are finished with a matt varnish. This gives the surface of the bamboo parquet the necessary protection against damage.

Distressed chestnut-bamboo floor

A bamboo floor with a matte finish means the flooring has been protected while maintaining its natural look. The varnish does not change the colour, appearance or texture of the floor covering. Some matt varnishes that are used for our bamboo floors also have anti-slip properties and UV protection.

Matt lacquered natural woven bamboo flooring

Bamboo parquet with a satin finish gives the surface a slight sheen. The color and beauty of the bamboo has been retained and then enhanced with a satin finish. This gives the bamboo parquet sufficient durability and protection in daily use.

Natural fiber bamboo base with a satin finish

Although the finishing process of your bamboo floor helps protect it from daily wear and tear, you may also want to take a look at how to protect it from damage. Read our bamboo floor care and maintenance guide for advice and tips.

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Yes and no. Whether you can finish bamboo floors (sanding, staining and sealing) depends on the bamboo floor in question. While you can refinish some, others, particularly the bamboo parquet floors or others with a thin bamboo veneer of less than 2mm, may not be perfect candidates.

Most manufacturers will tell you whether or not you can rework their bamboo. So always inquire when purchasing as refinishing can cause damage.

Why bamboo and why refinish?

Can you refinish bamboo floors?

Bamboo is becoming the flooring material of choice for many homeowners because it is versatile, stylish, environmentally friendly, durable, easy to install and low maintenance.

When sealed well, it’s also resistant to moisture, mildew, mildew, or insects (termites), and if you’re worried about bamboo being easily scratched, don’t worry as some, such as floors, including Ipe. You can even use a heeled bamboo floor that can withstand children’s dirt or pets like your dogs.

Beachwoven bamboo floors are very hard and may not need refinishing as they are not prone to scratches, dents, gouges, etc.

However, we cannot say that bamboo is completely scratch-resistant. It gets scratches, especially when the protective layer wears off or something sharp scratches it. Putting it in places with heavy traffic, dragging chairs, not using furniture pads (felt pads) or a sharp object may scratch it.

Charred bamboo, mainly horizontal and vertical planks, can also get scratches relatively quickly. Likewise, vertical bamboo boards are slightly weaker than flat ones.

As such, you may want to refinish your bamboo if it has scratches as they will trap dust or dirt or remove the stain, leaving it looking dull and unsightly.

If you’ve recently changed your room or home decor, you may want a floor that best suits it. In such a case, post-processing your bamboo is a viable option.

Whatever the reason, you don’t have to remove your entire floor just because you have scratches or want to paint it a different color. Why not just retrofit?

How to repair bamboo floors – what you need and what you have to do

We give you a step-by-step guide to help you refurbish your bamboo floor. This guide is a general discussion and does not apply to specific bamboo species i.e. H. solid strand woven horizontal or vertical bamboo flooring, SPC bamboo, parquet, constructed or carbonized.

WARNING

Before you start refinishing your floor, we strongly recommend speaking to the seller or manufacturer of the bamboo floor as they may need to know if it is ok. DO NOT RECOAT A BAMBOO FLOOR WITH A THICKNESS THAN TWO MM.

Some manufacturers may also recommend the use of specific abrasive grits (depending on the THICK WEAR LAYER) and the best surfaces to apply to.

Unless you are an expert, we strongly recommend hiring an experienced floor installer to do the job for you. Although it may cost you, you will end up with a better looking floor.

What you need

plastic sheeting

Blue tape

60, 80 and 100-120 grit sandpaper

grinding machines and edge grinders

scraper (optional)

Paint brush

stain or bleach

buffer or polisher

A floor covering

Protective clothing – safety shoes, knee pads, goggles, gloves and respiratory protection, hearing protection,

Step 1 – Preparation

Before you start sanding your floor, remove everything in the room and cover anything you can’t remove with plastic wrap. Also cover your windows and doors, electrical outlets and air intakes and outlets. You don’t want them to be dusty.

Then put on protective equipment (safety shoes, knee pads, gloves, breathing mask and hearing protection) and you’re ready to go.

Step 2 – Sand your bamboo floor

Sanding will help remove old paintwork, stains, scratches, minor effects of water damage, etc. and you will need to sand until you have a smooth finish (except for deep scratches which may need filling).

If the protective layer is not completely destroyed and there are no severe scratches, then there is no need to grind. Instead, polish and finish (screen or polish and coat) the floor. A buffer uses a nylon pad that only removes superficial scratches.

How you do this depends on the grinder you choose. Don’t just pick any and start grinding. Basically, unless you have a random orbit sander, always sand in the direction of the bamboo grain and in the direction your sander is moving, which is left to right.

However, we recommend sanding with medium sandpaper at a slight angle of about 7-15 degrees to the bamboo grain for the first sanding to minimize splinters.

Whether you rent or own a professional floor grinder, here are the main grinders and when to use them:

Drum Sander – A drum sander is most effective and gets the job done very quickly when your floor is terrible. However, it requires some skills to do the job well. Only use it if you are an expert.

– A drum sander is most effective and gets the job done very quickly when your floor is terrible. However, it requires some skills to do the job well. Only use it if you are an expert. Rotary Grinder – This grinder is also aggressive, but slower than the drum. It requires skills and is a bit more difficult to use. Please leave that to the experts.

– This grinder is also aggressive, but slower than the drum. It requires skills and is a bit more difficult to use. Please leave that to the experts. Random Orbital Sander – It is most recommended for newbies as it has circular motion and reciprocating motion. You can grind bamboo grains in any direction, and there are no whorl surfaces, grooves, or furrows.

– It is most recommended for newbies as it has circular motions and back and forth motions. You can grind bamboo grains in any direction, and there are no whorl surfaces, grooves, or furrows. Edge grinder – To grind next to a wall line, an edge grinder can grind close to wall lines without damaging our wall.

When sanding, use medium or 60 grit sandpaper and change it regularly as it wears out. After that use the 80 grit and finally a 100-120.

Between each sanding you will need to clean or vacuum the floor and check for consistency or the presence of splinters and ensure you have achieved the desired result before changing the grit.

Remember, bamboo is grass, it can get hot or its surface will burn faster than wood. Also, when sanding, focus more on areas of poor condition, including scratches and water damage. However, please do not overdo it as some scratches, nicks or ridges may need filling.

Finally, for delicate corners that your sander can’t reach, use your sanding edge cutter as it won’t damage your wall.

Step 3 – Clean or vacuum your floor

When you’re happy with your sanding result, it’s time to give your floor a thorough cleaning. People with dust bag grinders may not have a lot of dust on their floor. Still, vacuum it thoroughly to remove any residue.

When vacuuming, make sure you’re using a vacuum that’s rated for hardwood floors, one without a beater or one with a detachable vacuum.

Finally, don’t forget to check for splinters and if there aren’t any, let it dry thoroughly.

Step 4 – Stuffing and hand scraping

During the sanding you will get rid of the initial finish, some flat scratches or dents. However, if your floor has deep grooves, you will need to fill them in with a suitable filler.

Which bamboo filler you choose depends on the type of bamboo flooring you have, i.e. there are fillers for strand-woven, vertical or horizontal bamboo flooring. Please check with your manufacturer as some prefer fillers for their floors.

As you fill, apply your putty and scrape off any excess. Allow to dry completely before sanding with your smoothest grit for an even finish.

Finally, people with very damaged floors or those who want to maintain a rustic look that adds detail and character may consider hand-scratching their bamboo floor. Hand scraping also helps hide scratches and complements the natural bamboo look.

Step 5 – Coloring

Stained floors may require re-staining as sanding will remove the stains. However, people using carbonized bamboo that has not been stained may not need to restain the floor as it will still retain the original color after sanding.

Even if you need a new look, coloring is the next step. Even people with carbonized floors can still get stained if they want a different color.

When staining, use a synthetic bristle brush for a water-based stain or a natural bristle brush for an oil-based stain to apply two coats and allow the first coat to dry before the second. More layers will make the color darker and more vibrant.

Because they are difficult to stain, we do not recommend staining your strand-woven bamboo flooring unless absolutely necessary. Let the manufacturer advise you.

Step 6: Finishing the Bamboo Flooring

Once the stain you have applied to your bamboo floor has thoroughly dried, the final step involves applying several coats of protective layers.

Make sure you use an appropriate protection or sealing product as a poor finish will leave the floor vulnerable to damage (scratches, dents or moisture). An excellent protective layer should be resistant to abrasion, scratches or wear and tear and protect the underlying bamboo from moisture, i. H. be waterproof. You can also opt for one that is UV cured.

Popular sealants used are water or oil based polyurethanes. You can also opt for a penetrating oil seal, aluminum oxide, moisture-cured urethane, acid-cured finishes, or wax. The choice depends on where you are using it and what look you want to achieve.

Depending on the finish used, these finishes can be gloss, semi-gloss, satin, matte, or clear. Some sealers serve as patches. If you are unsure, contact the manufacturer of your bamboo floorboards for advice on which to use.

When it comes to the actual finish, apply the finish with a finish applicator or a rag and let dry. Once it has dried you can buff or burnish it to remove any particles or granules before applying another coat.

Finally, use a synesthetic applicator for water-based finishes and one with natural fibers for oil-based finishes. A T-bar, brush, pad or roller works well for water-based finishes, while lambswool applicators or rollers are used for oil-based finishes.

How much does it cost to renovate bamboo floors?

The cost you incur depends on what you’re using, including the stain and finish. Different stains and finishes are available at different prices. Also, the total amount you spend depends on whether you do it alone or hire an expert.

On average, refinishing bamboo flooring costs $1 to $2 per square foot if you do it yourself. However, if you are an expert, the cost will be as high as $3 or more.

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Typical range: $1,074 to $2,485

$1,074 to $2,485 National average: $1,757

If your hardwood floors are dull, scratched and looking old, it’s probably time to refinish them. According to HomeAdvisor, the typical price range for a hardwood floor refinish is $1,074 to $2,485, with the national average being $1,757. This equates to $3 to $8 per square foot, including materials and labor. Labor accounts for around 80 percent of the cost of finishing wood floors. The total cost can vary due to the complexity of the floor repair, the cost of labor, the type of wood floor, and the time required to complete the job.

Renew your floors? Some jobs are better left to the professionals. Get free, no-obligation estimates from licensed floorers near you. Find Local Pros +

Factors when calculating the cost of refinishing hardwood floors

Calculating the cost of refinishing hardwood floors will help you stay on budget. Prices may differ from the national average due to the size of the hardwood floor area, location, labor, cost of materials, prep labor, sanding, staining, coating and finishing.

Size of the room or apartment

The more square meters for the project, the more it will cost. A 15 by 15 foot (225 square foot) room costs between $675 and $1,125, or $3 to $5 per square foot.

location

The price for refinishing parquet floors can vary depending on the location. If you live in an urban area with a high cost of living, the cost of labor will be significantly higher along with the overall cost.

work

Labor costs are typically between $2 and $5 per square foot. The labor price depends on how much prep work the floor requires, the accessibility of the area, how much sanding is required, and the geographic location of your home.

material costs

Materials needed for finishing hardwood floors include a drum sander, sanding belt, various tools for prep or repair work, vacuum cleaner, plastic sheeting, stain, and top coat. Larger areas will require more stain and top coat than smaller areas.

preparation

Preparing hardwood floors for refinishing includes repairs, replacing wood boards if necessary, and cleaning. The extent of the preparatory work depends on the condition of the parquet floor. Floors with extensive damage such as deep scratches and gouges, stains, fading or water damage require more prep and repair work, increasing material and labor costs.

Ribbons

On average, sanding hardwood floors can cost anywhere from $0.50 to $3 per square foot. Sanding is done with large drum sanders for most of the area and belt sanders around the perimeter. Sanding usually requires multiple passes to ensure the hardwood floor is smooth and pristine.

coloring

Hardwood floors staining costs between $1 and $3 per square foot. Prices may vary based on the quality and type of stain and labor costs in your area. Low-end stains average $30 a gallon, and high-end stains can cost $100 a gallon. Be prepared to wait up to 24 hours between stain applications.

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coating or finishing

After the hardwood floors have been prepped, sanded, and stained, the final step is a top coat. Water or oil based polyurethane is applied in even layers. The oil-based coating costs between $20 and $40 per gallon. It takes approximately 24 hours to dry and develops an amber hue over time. Water-based coatings cost between $25 and $50 per gallon. This coating is clear and will not change over time. It also dries faster than an oil based one. Top coats are available in matte to high gloss finishes and can be buffed after drying for added shine and an even finish.

If your hardwood floor is in relatively good condition and doesn’t have any deep scratches or gouges, the option is simply to recoat the floor. Recoating applies polyurethane to the flooring without the additional cost of sanding. Recoating costs between $1 and $2 per square foot.

Additional Costs and Considerations

When budgeting to cover the cost of refinishing hardwood floors, there are usually additional pricing factors and considerations. This can include floor condition, repairs, carpet removal, furniture moving, cleaning, and traditional vs. dust-free refinishing.

Renew your floors? Some jobs are better left to the professionals. Get free, no-obligation estimates from licensed floorers near you. Find Local Pros +

ground condition

The better the condition of the parquet floor, the more budget-friendly the project price will be. Floors in poor condition require more time to prepare, repair and sand, which means additional labor costs.

underbody repairs

If your floor has major water damage, the subfloor may need to be repaired or replaced. Underbody repairs can cost as much as $7 per square foot. If the subfloor is loose and squeaks, a contractor can attach it to the joists to eliminate the squeaks.

carpeted floor

Expect additional costs if the hardwood floor is under carpet. A contractor charges additional fees for removing the carpeting before repainting the hardwood floor. Removal and disposal costs range from $0.25 to $1 per square foot, and removing carpet from stairs can cost from $7 to $10 per step.

Moving furniture and cleaning

Before hardwood floors can be refinished, everything must be removed from the room, including the furniture. Ask your contractor if there is an additional cost to remove furniture from a room or if it is included in the estimate. Also, consider asking if they will do the cleaning after the project is complete.

Conventional vs. dust-free painting

A more expensive option is dust-free refinishing. A dust-free refinish can cost anywhere from $5 to $8 per square foot and generates significantly less dust than traditional refinishes. Professionals attach a vacuum to the grinder to collect most of the dust. The dust-free finish is beneficial for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems.

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Types of Hardwood Floors

The type of hardwood floor does not affect the overall cost of the floor repair; The process, tools, materials and post-processing time do not change based on the type of wood. Some hardwoods may require extra care when sanding, but the overall process is the same. Hardwood floor refinishing costs range from $3 to $8 per square foot.

Oak

Oak floor refinishing costs range from $3 to $5 per square foot. Oak is also a very common hardwood for flooring and contractors are experienced in finishing this material. Oak is durable and can take a lot of foot traffic, so little to no additional maintenance is required when refinishing this type of flooring.

cherry wood

Cherry wood floors cost between $3 and $5 per square foot to repair. They’re one of the most common types of hardwood floors, and the process is similar to finishing oak floors: sanding, cleaning, staining, and sealing. Cherry has a naturally smoother texture than other types of wood and is therefore particularly easy to finish. Cherry wood floors have a distinctive color and will deepen in color and patina over time, so you may want to choose a stain option that enhances rather than detracts from the wood’s natural qualities.

parquet

Hardwood floor refinishing also costs $3 to $5 per square foot. It is recommended to hire a professional to finish this type of flooring as the wood grain runs in different directions and is easily damaged. If your hardwood floor has an intense sheen or an orange hue that you find dated or unsightly, a refinish is a great way to freshen up the floor and give it a more modern look.

Machined hardwood

Expect to pay around $3 to $5 for hardwood floor refinishing. Engineered Hardwood consists of a thin layer of real wood on plywood. For this reason, it takes a professional to sand technical hardwood properly, as only a thin layer can be sanded off. Any sanding mistakes that result from a home improvement project will ruin the flooring. Processed hardwood may only be refinished 1-3 times before the veneer becomes too thin.

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Jaw

Pine floor refinishing costs range from $4 to $7 per square foot. Because pine is a softer wood that dents and scratches more easily, the contractor must be careful with the sanding process and vary the grit depending on the condition of the floor, which means a slightly higher price. Pine also absorbs stains differently than other types of wood, so use caution when choosing a stain color and avoid dark stains.

maple

Maple floor refinishing costs can average anywhere from $6 to $8 per square foot. Because maple is a durable, high-quality material, sanding requires more effort and more time for the stain to sink into the wood. Dyeing maple a darker color makes it more prone to visible staining compared to a lighter color.

mahogany

Expect to pay between $6 and $8 per square foot to repair mahogany floors. Mahogany floors require more sanding time to prevent damage to the darker color of the wood. It is recommended to hire a professional to refinish mahogany floors to avoid damaging them. Mahogany floors will darken over time with exposure to sunlight, so changing the color of older mahogany floors can be more difficult.

Parquet floor refinishing costs: Do I have to refinish my parquet floors?

Hardwood floor finishing treatment removes scratches and dents and brings out the wood floor’s natural warmth and beauty. If the flooring is damaged by water or UV radiation, a full repair will restore the shine and shine. Here are some reasons why you should consider renovating your hardwood floors.

Dents or scratches are visible

If the flooring is scratched in several places and has seen better days, it’s time for a repair. Sanding the floor smooth is the best way to keep your hardwood floor looking new. Deeper scratches may require an additional repair, and a professional can ensure the repairs blend seamlessly with the rest of the floor.

Renew your floors? Some jobs are better left to the professionals. Get free, no-obligation estimates from licensed floorers near you. Find Local Pros +

Boards turn gray or black

Regular cleaning can also lead to water damage when the protective layer of the parquet floor is worn away. Water damaged hardwood floors will turn gray or black when enough water has penetrated. The darker the wood, the greater the damage. Reworking the floor before the damage becomes too extensive ensures the structural integrity of the floor. Keep in mind that some boards may need to be replaced if the damage is widespread.

The colors fade

Sunlight streaming across a lustrous hardwood floor may look appealing, but harmful UV rays can take a toll. Hardwood floors can fade and discolor from exposure to sunlight. If you find that your flooring is looking dull and faded, a refinish will help restore the wood’s natural color. Re-varnishing also allows you to change the color if you are not happy with the natural tone of the wood. For example, if you don’t like the reddish hue of a cherry wood floor, a different stain color can make the floor appear more neutral.

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Refinishing vs. replacing hardwood floors

Renovating wooden floors is cheaper than replacing them. On average, it costs about $2,000 to $7,000 to replace hardwood floors (two to three times more than a refinish). It is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly choice to refresh and maintain the wooden floors you already have, rather than replacing them. If the floor covering cannot be reworked, there is nothing left but to replace it. Here are some reasons why a replacement would be necessary.

There is water damage or structural integrity has been compromised

Extreme water damage from flooding or burst pipes compromises the structural integrity of the hardwood floor and underlying subfloor. Or if your home has been hit by a termite infestation, the flooring may be unstable or too damaged to be refinished. When the flooring is unsafe, repairs and replacements are required.

The boards are too thin

Older hardwood floors may have been previously sanded and refinished, or newer hardwood floors may not have enough veneer left. There is only a limited number of times a floor can be refinished before the planks are too thin. In this case, only the exchange remains.

You improve your floors

The repaint is primarily a cosmetic upgrade. If you’re looking to upgrade cheaper hardwood floors to something with more durability and better resale value, an exchange is the way to go. Replacing floors also offers the opportunity to add a new sub-floor or to fix constantly squeaking floorboards.

Cost of refinishing hardwood floors: DIY vs. hiring a professional

It might be tempting to do this project yourself to save on the expense of refinishing hardwood floors, but it’s more complicated than it looks. Refinishing hardwood floors is a time-consuming, messy, and costly job. On average, expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 to repair hardwood floors yourself. The cost of renting a drum floor grinder ranges from $50 to $80 per day or $100 to $200 for a weekend rental. You’ll need more than just a drum sander to complete the project. The prices of other supplies like sandpaper, belt sanders, edgers, nails, stain, top coat, brushes, rollers, safety gear, shop vacuums, cleaning supplies and more quickly add up. Remember that sanding and finishing mistakes can be expensive. Prepare to pay two to three times the price to replace the floors than you would have paid a professional to refinish.

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This will save you money on the cost of refinishing hardwood floors

The cost of refinishing hardwood floors can be high, and the extra costs associated with the project can quickly add up. One way to save money on hardwood floor refinishing costs is to find the cheapest contractor, but there are other ways to save money without sacrificing quality.

Do the prep work. Remove all furniture and personal items from the room to save on labor costs. If the hardwood floor is under carpet, rip it out yourself. These options don’t require skill, but it does require time and effort on your part.

Remove all furniture and personal items from the room to save on labor costs. If the hardwood floor is under carpet, rip it out yourself. These options don’t require skill, but it does require time and effort on your part. Get multiple estimates. Choosing the cheapest contractor can save you some money, but you mostly get what you pay for. Read reviews and ask questions to get the right price for you and your home.

Choosing the cheapest contractor can save you some money, but you mostly get what you pay for. Read reviews and ask questions to get the right price for you and your home. Take care of the cleaning. Many contractors charge extra for post-repair cleaning. If you don’t mind cleaning, dusting, vacuuming, and mopping after the project is complete, this is a great way to save some money.

Hardwood Floor Finishing Questions

Asking a professional the right questions about floor repair can help minimize misunderstandings, save you money, and get the results you want. Here are some questions about the cost of refinishing parquet floors.

Can you provide a reference list?

How long have you been in business?

Does the estimate include the cost of moving furniture and cleaning?

How long does post-processing take?

Do you offer a guarantee?

Are you insured and bonded?

What are the payment plan options?

How do you protect my home from all the dust?

How soon can I step on the floor after it has been repainted?

What type of stain and coating is best for my floor?

How do you deal with damage that happens during work?

frequently asked Questions

Deciding on the right way to repair hardwood floors while keeping costs down can be a daunting process. Here are some frequently asked questions about hardwood floor refinishing costs to help you with your decisions.

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Q. How long does it take to refinish parquet floors?

It takes about 5 hours per 100 square meters of flooring. The nature of the ground and the complexity of the layout also affect the duration.

Q. How much does it cost to renovate 1,000 square feet of hardwood flooring?

The average cost to renovate 1,000 square feet of hardwood flooring ranges from $3,000 to $8,000.

Q. Should I refinish or replace my hardwood floor?

On average, it costs 50 percent less to renew a parquet floor than to replace it.

Q. How often should I refinish my parquet floor?

Hardwood floors show their age approximately 10 years after installation. It is recommended that floors be replaced every 7 to 10 years depending on the extent of damage. Hardwood floors can be re-treated between 4 and 10 times depending on the thickness of the wood.

Q. Does floor repairing create a lot of dust?

Yes. Once the project begins, be prepared for a lot of dust. Many construction companies offer a dust-free finish with a machine that vacuums the dust while the floor is being finished. It will get rid of most of the dust, but no repair process is completely dust-free.

Sources: HomeAdvisor, Thumbtack, HomeGuide, Fixr

All bamboo floors we sell are already prefabricated. This means that the surface of the bamboo parquet is already treated and protected. Your bamboo floor is finished with varnish. Several layers of varnish are applied to the top of the bamboo floor. This helps protect it from everyday wear and tear and also gives it a nice surface shine.

Can I use my bamboo floor once it’s installed?

Yes, once your bamboo floor is installed, it is walkable. There is no need to apply additional coats of varnish or oil to the surface as it is already adequately treated and protected. The only time you need to treat your floor after installation is when you buy an unfinished wood floor. Most types of bamboo flooring are prefabricated, so you don’t have to worry about treatment after installation.

Carbonized Woven Bamboo Flooring Carbonized Woven Bamboo Flooring

Will I need to sand and reseal my bamboo floor in the future?

If you take good care of your bamboo floor, you may not need to sand and reseal your bamboo floor. However, if in the years to come you’ll want to re-varnish your floor to freshen it up or remove a stain, then you can. It is important to remember that the entire bamboo area needs to be sanded and finished, not just part of it. You must first remove all the furniture from the room and clean the floor. We strongly recommend hiring a professional floorer and finisher to do this job. It’s quite complex and requires special equipment.

How can I protect my bamboo floor from damage?

Once your new bamboo flooring is in place, you most likely want to keep it looking fresh and protect it from possible damage. There are a few steps you can take:

Always wipe spills off the surface of the bamboo to keep them from seeping into your soil.

Take off wet or dirty outdoor shoes before walking on your bamboo floor.

Sweep away any dirt, grit or rocks immediately so they don’t scratch or dent your bamboo floor.

Add protective felt pads to the underside of furniture or heavy objects. This reduces the risk of the furniture scratching your floor.