Carbonized Bamboo Flooring

Carbonized bamboo flooring is a type of flooring with carbonized finishing, offering a dark amber shade on the surface similar to the color of young teak. Usually, bamboo flooring is available in two colors: natural and carbonized or caramelized.

Carbonized bamboo flooring is obtained through a process called carbonization. The longer the process, the darker the bamboo flooring will be. Dark color on the bamboo flooring is acquired when bamboo undergoes pressure heating, which is a part of the process. During pressure heating, the sugar contents in the fiber darken and attain a coffee-colored tone on the surface. However, this pressurized heating might weaken the bamboo flooring from 20% to 30%.

If the freshly cut bamboo strips are carbonized within two hours and are not exposed to treatment with boiling water, the flooring gains 8% more hardness. Boiling water treatment is, however, used in the normal carbonization process.

Carbonized bamboo flooring is available in two varieties: vertical carbonized bamboo flooring and horizontal carbonized bamboo flooring. The difference lies in the alignment of the bamboo strips.

Carbonized bamboo flooring is not used in places with heavy traffic such as shopping complexes or office buildings. This type of flooring is best suited for use in residential buildings. Mishandling of this flooring can cause scratches and denting on the surface. Proper and timely maintenance is required for carbonized bamboo flooring.

The finish applied to the surface has to be durable and capable of protecting the flooring from scratches and other damages. All edges are to be sealed so that moisture content does not accumulate beneath the flooring. It is ideal if the room moisture level can be maintained using a dehumidifier or humidifier.

Rates for installation of carbonized bamboo flooring are similar to that of common hardwood floors but will vary from one region to another.