Bamboo Flooring Checklist

You know bamboo makes great utensils but what about bamboo flooring? Before you run off and buy bamboo, it's important to answer a few key questions about where and how it will be installed. Our Bamboo Buying Checklist will assist you in determining if bamboo can be under your table as well as on your table. For your convenience, we offer a print friendly version of the Bamboo Buying Checklist so you can take it with you when shopping.

Bamboo Flooring Products

Buying Bamboo Flooring? Know Before You Go!

Download Checklist PDF
Buying Bamboo Checklist - 166kb pdf | Download our buying checklist, so you know what questions to ask at your local floor store.

	Questions to Ask the Salesman	What Do I Want to Know? / Key Points About Bamboo Flooring
	What are the pros/cons of bamboo flooring vs. other types of flooring?	If you are unsure that bamboo is for you this will help you decide.
	What different types of bamboo do you carry and how do they differ?	You should be shown the following to get an idea of the brands or types you like: Constructions (solid, engineered, strand woven) Species Grains (horizontal and vertical) Widths Brands Installation Methods Price Ranges Pre-finished/Unfinished Edges
	What would you personally recommend for my situation?	Consider: The look you are trying to achieve Home décor and furnishings Climate extremes and traffic levels Pets, kids, disabilities The type of room (stairs) Condition and type of subfloor Need for sound insulation Lighting
Once You Have an Idea of What Product You are Leaning Toward...
	What grade is this product and what is the expected lifetime?	Grade A: Fully mature; Consistent color; No mold or fungus; If maintained properly, should last a lifetime under normal conditions Grade B: Sometimes weaker; Immature bamboo; Uneven coloring; Mold or fungus may be present; Lower quality finishes are often used
	What colors are available for this product and what type of finish is used?	Natural: Golden blonde shade Carbonized: Darker colors which results in a slightly softer bamboo Stained: A variety of colors that is easily applied to your bamboo
	Can the flooring be sanded and refinished? If so, how many times?	Solid bamboo can usually be refinished more times than an engineered. How many times do you plan on refinishing your bamboo floors?
	Is the bamboo sealed on all four sides?	This prevents moisture damage. Ask your salesperson to show you bamboo like this.
	What type of glue is used and does it contain formaldehyde?	Some manufacturers use glues and/or adhesives that contain harmful levels of  formaldehyde. You should only purchase flooring that meets E1 Safety & Emission Standards.
	Is this preferred for a DIY installation?	Ask for DIY instructions. These can also be found in our installation instructions.
	What does the Manufacturer's Warranty cover and how long does it last?	Look for a warranty accompanied by a large US company backing the product. If you find a cheap warranty from a private labeled product without a big US presence, be cautious. Read the fine print!
	What can you tell me about the manufacturer and your experience with their products?	How long and how much have you sold? Are there any customer testimonials? Large or small/private label? Number of years in business? Do they provide support?
	Is the product in stock or does it have to be ordered? Is there a minimum order?	Rare products may take longer to ship. Ask your salesperson to check stock with the distributor. Normally, you can order 1 box at a time.
	What is your return policy?	Find out penalties, fees and stipulations for returning. Will the manufacturer reimburse you for returning unused/leftover bamboo planks?
	What is the lead time before I can have this completely installed?	Consider factors such as ordering the product, waiting for arrival, acclimation and installation.
	What other accessories or products might I need and do you carry them?	Examples: Moisture barrier or underlayment, adhesives, trims and moldings, tools for installation, rugs or mats
	Can you provide care instructions?	Follow all the manufacturer's instructions to ensure your warranty is not voided.
	Do you sell cleaning kits and repair kits?	You should look for products recommended by the manufacturer.
	May I see a sample of the actual flooring?	If it is in stock, ask to remove a piece from actual box to inspect it (not all retailers will allow this). If undecided, ask to take a floor sample home. Consider how it works with the other colors and the lighting in the room.
	What financing options are available?	Consider financing if you decide on a product that is more than your budget.
	Do you deliver?	If so, is it curbside or stacked in the installation area? Is there a fee? How many days do I have to schedule in advance? Do I need to move furniture? Are there any other preparations that I need to take?
	Do you offer installation? If not, do you have a list of licensed installers &/or contractors you recommend?	If not, use FindAnyFloor.com's directory search tool; "Find it Locally", to find a local flooring professional, installer (contractor), or cleaner.