But in fact it is becoming more and more popular around the world. It is thought to have started in China but can be seen in most East Asian counties and is a good alternative to most hardwood flooring. It has many advantages over other materials used for flooring, so here are just a few.

Bamboo really is as strong as or stronger than medium grade steel since it can handle as many pounds per each square inch.

Bamboo is as strong and flexible as hardwood and lasts as long as most timber, if not longer. Therefore, you do not have to replace it as often as you would with hardwood. That not only saves you a lot of money in the long run but also saves the environment (trees from being cut down).

Our rainforests are ever decreasing. By using bamboo flooring, you are helping to save our rainforests. It takes nearly 20 years for a tree to grow back after being cut down and then even longer for it to reach the right maturity to be used for hardwood flooring. Bamboo takes a maximum of 5 years, after being cut down, before it can be harvested for flooring. This is almost a quarter of the time it takes for a tree to reach that time. If doing your part to help save the planet is not enough for you, then how about the fact that bamboo flooring is cheaper than other good quality woods.

Another advantage to using this flooring is that it is naturally repellent to certain insects and bugs as well as being able to resist moisture. Some insects that nest in wood can be hazardous to a person's health. Bamboo flooring even lets in a breeze on those scorching hot summer evenings. That is a natural feature of bamboo flooring and is highly appreciated by many people.

You will find it does not swell or shrink as much as other commonly used woods. Therefore, you will get less gaps and holes in your flooring. Because of this, it is good to use in those places that have high humidity.

These are just features that are part of bamboo flooring, while most people are only interested in how it looks and costs. As for looks, well it is already being used all over Asia and Europe and in many parts of Northern America. It is highly recommended for a natural oriental look.

Designers everywhere are becoming more and more fond of bamboo flooring because of the unique details that bamboo flooring has; its unique look and style, durability and availability. You can even get bamboo flooring in two different variations and over 30 stain colours. It will match any room you use it in and it can even be installed using the same tools you use to install any other hardwood floor.

The grain patterns come in two varieties as well; vertical and horizontal grain alignment. Horizontal alignment lets you see the joints on the grass which will give your floor an even more beautiful all-natural look.