But like wood bamboo can be scratched and it is prone to cracking in conditions where humidity levels swing dramatically.
Bamboo flooring moisture level.
Moisture meter settings when installing the flooring the source and the construction can influence the ideal moisture level for each environment and the species setting or specific gravity sg can vary greatly depending on the manufacturer s source and process.
Bamboo flooring can be installed when the moisture content between the floor and subfloor is within 3.
As a flooring material bamboo has many of the same benefits and drawbacks of hardwood flooring like wood flooring bamboo is an attractive natural material that generally adds real estate value to a home.
Using a dehumidifier or humidifier to maintain relative humidity in the home at 30 50 will maintain the moisture level in the wood and help minimize cracks between the boards.
If bamboo is the look you want there are four things to consider in order to prevent moisture related problems in your bamboo flooring.
Although engineered bamboo planks aren t waterproof they re more moisture resistant than solid bamboo planks thanks to the wear layer and the waterproofing on the bottoms of the planks.
If you see the interior humidity start to drop below 25 consider investing in a humidifier.
Continued excessive humidity can cause swelling of the floor.
It s worth noting at this point that there is no standardized grading system for bamboo.
A smart programmable home humidifier is a perfect solution.
However during an arid desert s winter season humidity levels can drop to 10 20.
That dry air can take a toll on hardwood and bamboo floors if it gets too dry think below 20 humidity.