Differences Between Horizontal and Vertical Bamboo

Building With Bamboo

• Bamboo is a type of grass that grows quickly and plentifully. Each blade of grass is actually a long, hollow tube -- this growing pattern is unique to bamboo. To make floors, these hollow bamboo reeds are sliced open and cut into strips. The strips are sealed together to make a flat, even, smooth surface. Whether bamboo is finished with a vertical or horizontal design depends on how it is put together during this process.

Horizontal Bamboo

• Horizontal bamboo is created when three or more bamboo strips are laid flat and laminated together with the natural surface showing. The natural growth rings and knobs create a textured look that closely resembles flattened bamboo stalks, because large, whole sections of the bamboo are used. Horizontal bamboo has a very natural look that some homeowners appreciate.

Vertical Bamboo

• Vertical bamboo is assembled from bamboo strips that have been turned on their sides. The strips are laminated together in thin rows and pressed together to create a single, smooth layer. Vertical bamboo flooring shows, essentially, only the edges of each bamboo strip, so you will see fewer details of the wood-like grass.

Choosing Bamboo Flooring

• Well-crafted horizontal bamboo is tougher and more stable than vertical bamboo flooring, but both are well-suited for either commercial or residential use. In the main, the difference between horizontal and vertical bamboo flooring is aesthetic. Horizontal bamboo has wider planks with lots of natural details. Vertical bamboo planks are thinner and look a little cleaner, with less detail.