Five Things To Watch Out For
So what's to worry about? Of the dozens of bamboo flooring manufacturers, some sell poorly made, unsustainably harvested or irresponsibly manufactured products. There is currently no certification organization for bamboo like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for lumber because bamboo is a grass rather than a tree. Still, if you check sources carefully, it's not difficult to find bamboo flooring that scores high on all counts. You'll want to resolve the issues below, and doing so depends on asking questions of your dealer. Ask to see manufacturers' statements to make sure your concerns are addressed.

1. Unsustainable production. Demand has driven some producers to use chemicals or to clear forest land to make way for bamboo. However, numerous manufacturers take pains to use bamboo from sustainable sources. If you choose engineered flooring, check that the bottom layers also are from sustainable sources. Several manufacturers use plantation-grown pine or fir, and some use wood from 'retired' plantation rubber trees. These sources have no impact on virgin forests.

2. Quality. Both solid and engineered bamboo vary in manufacturing quality. Rock-bottom prices probably mean rock-bottom quality. Ask to see a sample. Either type should feel substantial and solid, without gaps in the layers or between the laminations. If prefinished, the surface should be smooth and clear.

3. Formaldehyde content. Flooring adhesives must be tough, and some of the toughest contain formaldehyde. Over time, this dangerous material escapes into the air. However, several manufacturers offer products with extremely low concentrations. The levels of formaldehyde that outgas from these glues are lower than the levels found in normal outdoor air, and they drop over time. Sources of low-formaldehyde flooring include:

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• Bamboo Mountain
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• Bamboo Hardwoods
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• EcoTimber
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• Teragren
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• Green Floors
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