How to Install Bamboo Flooring

How to Install Bamboo Flooring

We've all heard of exterior shutters. We see them on houses in every town in the country. Their warmth and beauty welcome us home after a long, tiring day. Many have never heard of interior shutters, though. Shutters inside the home can be just as warm, beautiful -- and functional.


Interior shutters can be used inside a window in place of blinds. These offer both privacy and shade. In fact, some interior window shutters can help you save money on your energy bills. They are great in rooms that receive direct sunlight for much of the day. Additionally they look nicer and last longer than cheap mini-blinds.

Installation is relatively easy, and few tools are needed. If you prefer, many companies offer installation at an additional price. Contractors can also be hired to install interior shutters.

Interior shutters are available in either wood or vinyl. Experts say that vinyl is better for those desiring a painted look while wood is best for customers wanting a stained look. Wood shutters are available in most types of wood, from cedar to oak. Vinyl shutters are available in a variety of colors, but white is the most popular. Both traditional and plantation shutters are available.

Shutters are available in stock sizes or custom sizes. Naturally, stock sizes will be less expensive. Custom ordered shutters would offer more choices and flexibility. In historic or landmark areas, companies will even offer historically accurate shutters. This maintains the integrity of homes in protected landmark areas.

Shutters can be used in other areas beside windows. Some people use shutters on louver doors separating rooms within the house. This allows a certain level of privacy without completely shutting off the room. It also offers a unique decorating opportunity.

Interior shutters offer many advantages, including privacy, shade, and décor. For a unique and classy window cover or room divider, consider installing interior shutters.

Not just food for pandas or the stuff of cheap picnic mats, bamboo is now being processed with modern techniques into beautiful "hardwood" flooring that beats standard wood floors in durability, hardness, and dimensional stability.

An added bonus to these beautiful floors is the knowledge that bamboo, unlike wood, grows quickly and abundantly, reaching maturity in five years or less. Red oak and maple, by comparison, can take decades to mature and then have to be replanted. Clear-cutting of forests also has a negative environmental impact and threatens the planet's biodiversity.

After harvesting, cutting, processing, and finishing, bamboo flooring installation is not much different from standard hardwood floor installation. The important steps in installation occur before putting in the bamboo floor. First, make sure you buy from a reputable manufacturer who is willing to back up their product with a warranty.

The next step in bamboo flooring installation is making sure the subfloo is dry, clean, and level. Dirty subfloors will not bond well with the adhesive, and subfloors that are not dry will eventually cause rot. If not level, the bamboo flooring will squeak when walked on. If you are competent in home repair and good with your hands, you may be able to complete the bamboo flooring installation on your own. In some cases, with certain types of bamboo flooring, a professional will be needed.

Bamboo flooring may be glued down using a moisture barrier flooring adhesive. After applying the adhesive to the subfloor with a trowel, the bamboo flooring planks should be immediately placed. You may also install bamboo flooring using a nail gun over plywood or particleboard. Once starter rows are secure, subsequent planks should be nailed directly above the tongue at a 45-degree angle to face.

After installing the bamboo flooring, you will care for it in a similar way to hardwood floors; frequent dusting/sweeping, occasionally mopping, and use of wood cleaners. With regular care, bamboo flooring will add a stylish, beautiful component to your home for many years to come.