Bamboo floors are a popular choice, and for many good reasons.  This unique type of flooring is environmentally friendly, durable, attractive and hypoallergenic.

However, before you buy bamboo flooring to install in your new home, it's important to have a good understanding of the different types and styles.  There are several different kinds of bamboo flooring out there, and it also comes in a number of colors.

In addition to all the different looks bamboo flooring has to offer, there are also many different grades.  These are available in different hardnesses, densities, and use different construction methods.

All bamboo flooring is made from thin pieces of bamboo laminated together.  This bamboo is cut from the round bamboo stalk and pressed until it's perfectly flat, then glued to other bamboo to create a strong, attractive material.

Vertical grain bamboo flooring is laminated together on its edge.  It's a little stronger than horizontal grain bamboo flooring, which is made in layers on top of one another, instead of side by side.

Strand-style bamboo flooring is made using long strands of this material which have been woven and compressed together.  It is also a highly durable type of flooring.

Each style has its own look, and there are a number of options within them.  Some bamboo flooring looks much like traditional hardwood, while other flooring is more uniquely bamboo, and some is available in tiles.

There are also many different colors available.  Bamboo floors are heat treated to produce shades from very light natural bamboo to very dark, smoky colors.

Darker colors are a little softer, but bamboo is still a very strong material over all.  It's harder than maple or oak hardwood floors, for instance.

Most bamboo floors come prefinished, making installation much easier.  Just put the flooring in and glue it down - there's no dust and few fumes to deal with.

Bamboo can be quite moisture resistant, too.  It doesn't crack or warp if correctly made, but it should be treated with care - don't leave water to puddle on your bamboo flooring.

Floors made from bamboo can also increase the value of your house, making them a good investment for people who intend to resell.  Their increasing popularity means they're an excellent choice for new construction, too.

If you're concerned about the environmental impact and sustainability of your remodeling choices, or you just want an attractive, durable new floor for your home, bamboo is the ideal choice.  It offers many advantages over hardwood and carpeting.

Just be sure to get quality bamboo products to install in your home.  Cheaper flooring has been hitting the market lately, and while it might save you a bit up front, it doesn't offer all the advantages of a better-made product.

Poor quality bamboo is prone to splitting, warping, and even delamination, and may be made with toxic glues and formaldehyde.  It's also often less well compressed, resulting in a less dense, lower durability product.

The investment in high quality, sustainable produced bamboo floors for your home really is worth it.  You'll be glad you paid a little extra when your floors stay with you and keep looking great for many years to come.