Refinish Bamboo Flooring? (4 Steps To Know!)

As a flooring contractor for over 15 years, I’ve seen it all – from disastrous DIY attempts to absolutely stunning transformations. One thing I’ve noticed is the growing popularity of bamboo flooring.

Did you know that bamboo flooring has seen a 20% increase in market demand over the last five years? It’s true! Everyone loves its sustainability and durability. But like any flooring, it needs some TLC to keep it looking its best. That’s where refinishing comes in.

In this article, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about refinishing your bamboo floors, from understanding what bamboo flooring actually is, to the tell-tale signs that it needs some love, and a step-by-step guide on how to get the job done right. Let’s dive in!

Section 1: Understanding Bamboo Flooring

So, what is bamboo flooring, exactly? It’s not wood, that’s for sure. Bamboo flooring is made from, well, bamboo! Specifically, Moso bamboo is commonly used because it’s strong and grows quickly.

The process involves harvesting the bamboo stalks, slicing them into strips, and then bonding them together under high pressure. This creates planks that are surprisingly durable and resistant to wear and tear.

There are a few different types of bamboo flooring you might encounter:

Horizontal: The bamboo strips are laid flat, showing the knuckles of the bamboo.
Vertical: The strips are arranged on their edge, creating a more linear look.

Strand Woven: This is the strongest type. The bamboo is shredded and then compressed, resulting in a dense and durable floor.

Why Choose Bamboo?

What’s the big deal about bamboo, anyway? Well, there are a bunch of reasons why people are choosing it for their homes and businesses:

Eco-Friendliness: Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource. It grows much faster than hardwood trees, making it a more sustainable choice.
Durability: Strand woven bamboo, in particular, is incredibly tough. It can stand up to heavy foot traffic and resist scratches and dents.
Aesthetic Appeal: Bamboo has a unique, natural look that can complement a variety of design styles. It adds warmth and character to any space.

Cost-Effective: Bamboo is often more affordable than traditional hardwood, making it a great option for budget-conscious homeowners.

You’ll often find bamboo flooring in living rooms, bedrooms, and even kitchens. I’ve even seen it used in some commercial spaces like offices and retail stores. Its versatility makes it a great choice for just about any application.

Section 2: Signs That Your Bamboo Flooring Needs Refinishing

Okay, so you’ve got bamboo flooring. How do you know when it’s time to give it some love? Here are a few tell-tale signs:

Scratches: This is the most obvious one. If you’re starting to see a lot of scratches, especially in high-traffic areas, it’s time to consider refinishing.

Dullness: Over time, the finish on your bamboo floor can start to wear down, leaving it looking dull and lifeless.
Discoloration: Sunlight and humidity can cause your bamboo floor to fade or change color over time.
Water Damage: Bamboo is more water-resistant than hardwood, but it’s not waterproof. If you’ve had a leak or spill that wasn’t cleaned up quickly, it can damage the floor.

Worn Finish: If you notice the finish is completely gone in some areas, exposing the raw bamboo underneath, it’s definitely time to refinish.

Environmental Factors

I’ve seen firsthand how environmental factors can wreak havoc on bamboo flooring. Humidity can cause it to expand and contract, leading to cracks and gaps. Excessive sunlight can fade the color and weaken the finish.

Compared to traditional hardwood, bamboo is generally more resistant to moisture, but it’s not invincible. Hardwood might last longer in some cases, but bamboo offers a unique aesthetic and sustainability benefits.

Lifespan Comparison (Approximate):

Flooring Type	Average Lifespan
Bamboo Flooring	20-25 years (with proper care)
Hardwood Flooring	25-50 years (with proper care)

Section 3: The Benefits of Refinishing Bamboo Flooring

So, why should you bother refinishing your bamboo floor instead of just replacing it? Here’s why:

Cost-Effectiveness: Refinishing is almost always cheaper than replacing. You’re saving on the cost of new materials and installation. In my experience, refinishing can save you 50-70% compared to a full replacement.
Enhanced Appearance: Refinishing can completely transform the look of your floor. It can bring back its natural beauty and make your whole room feel fresh and new.
Environmental Benefits: By refinishing instead of replacing, you’re reducing waste and conserving resources. You’re extending the life of your existing floor and avoiding the need to manufacture new materials.

Increased Home Value: A well-maintained and beautiful floor can increase the value of your home. It’s an investment that pays off in the long run.

Section 4: Four Essential Steps to Refinish Bamboo Flooring

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here’s my four-step guide to refinishing your bamboo flooring:

Step 1: Preparation

This is arguably the most important step. Proper preparation will make the whole process go much smoother.

Clear the Area: Remove all furniture, rugs, and anything else that’s on the floor.

Clean the Floor: Sweep, vacuum, and mop the floor thoroughly. You want to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that could interfere with the sanding process.
Assess the Condition: Take a good look at your floor. Are there any major damages like deep gouges or loose planks? These might need to be addressed before you start sanding.
Gather Your Tools and Materials: Here’s what you’ll need:
- Floor Sander: You can rent one from most home improvement stores.
- Edger Sander: For sanding along the edges and in corners.
- Sandpaper: Start with a coarse grit (40-60) to remove the old finish, then move to a medium grit (80-100) and finally a fine grit (120-150) for a smooth finish.
- Shop Vacuum: For cleaning up dust.
- Tack Cloth: For removing any remaining dust.
- Finish: Choose a finish that’s appropriate for bamboo flooring. I’ll talk more about this in Step 3.
- Applicator: A brush, roller, or pad for applying the finish.
- Safety Gear: Eye protection, a dust mask, and ear protection.

Step 2: Sanding the Floor

Okay, this is where things get a little noisy and dusty. But trust me, it’s worth it!

Safety First: Put on your safety gear – eye protection, dust mask, and ear protection.
Start with the Floor Sander: Use the floor sander to sand the main area of the floor. Overlap each pass by about 50% to ensure even sanding.
Use the Edger: Use the edger sander to sand along the edges of the room and in corners.

Progress Through the Grits: Start with the coarse grit sandpaper to remove the old finish. Then, switch to the medium grit and finally the fine grit.
Vacuum Thoroughly: After each sanding pass, vacuum the floor thoroughly to remove all dust.
Tack Cloth: Use a tack cloth to wipe down the floor and remove any remaining dust.

Sanding removes the old finish and reveals the fresh bamboo underneath. It’s like giving your floor a brand new start.

Step 3: Applying the Finish

Now for the fun part – bringing your floor back to life with a new finish!

First, let’s talk about finish options. There are two main types:

Water-Based Finishes: These are low-VOC (volatile organic compounds), meaning they’re more environmentally friendly and have less odor. They also dry faster than oil-based finishes.
Oil-Based Finishes: These are more durable and provide a richer, warmer tone. However, they have a stronger odor and take longer to dry.

Personally, I often recommend water-based finishes for bamboo because they’re more eco-friendly and dry quickly. But it really depends on your personal preference and the look you’re going for.

Application Process:

Read the Instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the finish you’re using.
Apply Evenly: Use a brush, roller, or pad to apply the finish evenly across the floor. Avoid applying too much at once, as this can lead to drips and uneven drying.
Overlap Each Pass: Overlap each pass by about 50% to ensure even coverage.

Apply Multiple Coats: Most finishes require two or three coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. Lightly sand between coats with a fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit) to ensure a smooth finish.

Step 4: Curing and Maintenance

You’re almost there! Now it’s time to let the finish cure and learn how to keep your floor looking its best.

Curing Process: The curing process is crucial. It allows the finish to harden and bond to the bamboo. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for curing time. This can range from a few days to a few weeks.
Avoid Heavy Traffic: During the curing process, avoid heavy traffic on the floor.
Use Protective Pads: Place protective pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.

Clean Regularly: Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris.
Use a Damp Mop: Use a damp mop to clean the floor as needed. Avoid using excessive water, as this can damage the finish.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish.

Conclusion

So, there you have it – my complete guide to refinishing your bamboo flooring! It might seem like a lot of work, but trust me, the results are worth it. You’ll have a beautiful, revitalized floor that you can be proud of.

Bamboo flooring is a fantastic choice for its sustainability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. By taking the time to refinish it properly, you can extend its life and enhance the beauty of your living space.

Don’t be afraid to tackle this project yourself. With a little preparation and the right tools, you can achieve professional-looking results. And if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to call in a professional.

Take pride in your bamboo flooring and enjoy the beauty and warmth it brings to your home!

Refinish Bamboo Flooring? (4 Steps To Know!)