Install Bamboo Flooring Yourself: A Straightforward Guide
Bamboo floors are a big deal these days. Why? They look great. They're strong. They're also good for the Earth. Want to install one yourself?
This guide will show you how.
What Is Solid Bamboo Flooring?
Contents
Solid bamboo flooring is all bamboo, top to bottom. You can sand it and refinish it many times. It comes in three types: vertical, horizontal, and strand-woven. Strand-woven is the toughest. Each type has its own look.
Tools and Materials You Need
Ready to start? Here's what you'll need:
- Bamboo flooring planks
- Moisture Barrier
- Power Saw
- Rubber Mallet
- Pry Bar
- Floor Spacers
- Tapping Block
- Tape Measure
- Chalk Line
- Nail Gun
- Safety Gear: goggles, gloves, and knee pads
Prepare Your Space
First, make your room ready. Bamboo can change with heat and moisture. So, let the planks sit in the room for 72 hours first. Keep them flat and dry. Make sure your subfloor is clean and even. If it's not, you might have squeaky floors later.
Step-by-Step Installation
1. Plan Your Layout
Decide which way the planks should go. Usually, they go in the same direction as the longest wall. Measure so that you won't have really thin planks on the other side.
2. Mark Your Start Line
Use a tape measure and chalk line to mark where the first row will go. This line should be one plank's width plus 12 inches from the wall.
3. First Row
Start on the right side. Put the first plank down with its grooved side facing the wall. Use spacers to keep it 12 inches from the wall. Then add the next plank. Cut the last piece to fit.
4. Keep Going
Use a tapping block and mallet for the next rows. Fit the planks snugly. Keep going until you get to the last row.
5. The Final Row
The last row may need cutting. Don't forget the 12-inch gap for expansion. Use a pry bar to fit the last row tightly into place.
6. Add Transition Strips and Baseboards
Use transition strips where the bamboo meets other floors. Then put the baseboards back on.
7. Clean Up
Clean the floor with a soft mop. Use a cleaner that's safe for bamboo floors.
8. Let It Settle
Wait 24 hours before you put furniture on your new floor.
How to Take Care of Your Bamboo Floor?
Bamboo floors are easy to care for. Sweep or vacuum often. Clean up spills right away. You can also polish it sometimes to keep it shiny.
Hi there, I’m Sam Billings, and I’m all about sustainability. Running a printing business is my thing, but my real passion is preserving nature. That’s why I run the Live Health blog, where I focus on Bamboo plants and their eco-friendly goodness.
