The distinctive and unique bamboo flooring can bring warmth and style to any space. Not only is it an environmentally-friendly solution but it’s also one of the best options for kids and pets. While it’s very easy to maintain and clean, it may need occasional refinishing. 

In today’s post, we bring you everything you should know before you reach out to your experts in bamboo floor refinishing in Winston-Salem. Keep reading to find out more about whether and how you can refinish your bamboo flooring.

Can a bamboo wood floor be refinished?

Yes, they can be refinished, but it depends on the type of the flooring you have:

• Solid bamboo floors can undergo this process several times, just like hardwood flooring.
• Strand-woven bamboo is denser and more durable. It can also be refinished, but it usually requires specialized sanding techniques. 
• Engineered bamboo flooring has a thin layer of bamboo on top and can only handle light refinishing. In fact, the veneer needs to be thicker than 2mm.

If you’re in doubt, it’s best to contact professionals to assess your flooring and determine if it’s a good idea to refinish it.

What is the best finish for bamboo floors?

The right finish can help you keep your flooring looking beautiful and protect it from wear and tear. The best option for you will depend on several factors, such as your lifestyle, the amount of foot traffic in your home, as well as the overall look you’d like to achieve. 

Some finishes enhance the natural grain of the bamboo, while others add durability. Whether you prefer a glossy, matte, or textured look, the right choice will help extend the life of your flooring. Let’s go over some of the most common types:

Polyurethane

Water-based polyurethanes are easy to apply if you prefer carrying out this project on your own, and contain low amounts of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). They don’t give off unpleasant odors and they dry quickly (in about two to four hours). However, they’re more expensive than oil polyurethanes. 

When it comes to oil polys, they’re longer-lasting and tougher, but they have a slight off-gassing odor which, however, isn’t harmful. They also take a longer time to dry, so it’s best if your family and pets stay out of your home for about 8 to 10 hours until it’s completely dry.

Wax

If you don’t like a finish with high gloss, wax is the perfect choice as it offers a low-sheen look, whether you go for the liquid or paste. It’s a natural finish with low toxicity and VOCs. However, wax can darken the wood. If this isn’t the effect you’re looking for and you’d still like to use wax, then it’s best to first apply a base coat to keep the original nuance of your flooring.

Oil sealant

Oil sealants have quite a few benefits. They’re very easy to apply, it’s simple to do spot touch-ups, and they enhance the grain and color of patterns because they penetrate the surface. In addition, oil is resistant to scratches, but you’ll still need to recoat every two or three years.

Where can I find reliable bamboo floor refinishing in Winston-Salem?

If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of bamboo flooring, how bamboo floors are installed, or how to maintain them properly, Premier Hardwood Flooring is the team you can always rely on. With years of experience and a dedicated team, we’re here to provide you with tailored and durable solutions you’ll love. Whether you need us in Old Salem or another nearby neighborhood, we’ll be there to enhance your space. Give us a call today!