Strand Woven Bamboo (Carbonized)
Phyllostachys edulis · Bamboo
- Type
- Bamboo
- Origin
- Native to China and Taiwan; widely naturalized across Southeast Asia.
- Hardness
- Approx. 3,000 lbf (Extremely Hard). Significantly harder than domestic hardwoods like Oak or Maple due to the resin-compression process.
- Durability
- Moderately Durable to Durable. High resistance to indentation and wear; however, it is susceptible to moisture-related swelling and is generally not recommended for high-humidity environments or outdoor use without specialized treatment.
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Grain Pattern
Non-directional fibrous texture with distinctive "knuckles" or nodes visible as darker horizontal bands; strand-woven processing creates a marbled, linear, and variegated appearance unlike traditional timber.
Color & Appearance
Medium coffee-brown to honey color achieved through carbonization (pressure-steaming to caramelize sugars). Displays significant tonal variation between individual strands and may fade slightly toward a lighter tan with prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
Approx. 3,000 lbf (Extremely Hard). Significantly harder than domestic hardwoods like Oak or Maple due to the resin-compression process.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable to Durable. High resistance to indentation and wear; however, it is susceptible to moisture-related swelling and is generally not recommended for high-humidity environments or outdoor use without specialized treatment.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 - $7.00 per square foot (typical retail for flooring planks).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern manufactured product; based on the scratch patterns and installation look, the flooring appears to be 5-10 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly Sustainable. Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that reaches maturity in 5 years. Often FSC certified and recognized by LEED for rapidly renewable materials.
Common Uses
Flooring, wall paneling, heavy-use countertops, and modern furniture.
Geographic Origin
Native to China and Taiwan; widely naturalized across Southeast Asia.
Workability
Difficult. Extremely dense and abrasive, it dulled carbide-tipped blades quickly. Prone to splintering and requires pre-drilling. Glues well with standard flooring adhesives but sanding produces fine, irritating dust.
Finish Recommendations
Pre-finished with multi-layer aluminum oxide urethane. For site-finishing, water-based polyurethanes are recommended to prevent excessive darkening.
Notable Features
High density and weight; carbonization process weakens the fibers slightly compared to natural bamboo but increases aesthetics. Contains high amounts of resins/adhesives used to bind the strands together.
