The versatile finish and eco-friendly properties of bamboo flooring have become popular among homeowners in the past few years. But, many people want to refinish parts of their house later, and the bamboo floor causes the most confusion.
So, can bamboo flooring be stained? Yes, you can stain bamboo flooring! However, you are more likely to get an uneven color on the floor, which often looks cool. As bamboo floors have a longer lifespan than other floorings, exposure to sunlight and heat can make them go either dark or light.
So, let’s get to know about staining bamboo floors darker and everything else that comes with it! Check out the list of the best floor paints on Amazon now!
Can Bamboo Floors Be Stained Dark?
If you want to change the color of your bamboo floor using a darker stain, you can definitely do it. Many people don’t like the color of their bamboo floor fading with time. That’s why they choose a darker stain to give it a fresh and mesmerizing look.
However, staining the bamboo floor may not give a smooth and even color throughout. Some cells in the bamboo tend to absorb the color better, while some will never absorb it.
That is why we see different patterns on bamboo floors, even if they are stained with one color.
But, it isn’t an issue in our opinion. The different patterns are a reason for the popularity of bamboo floors.
How Do You Darken Bamboo Floors?
Staining or darkening bamboo floors follows the same process as staining hardwood floors. If you want to darken the bamboo floor yourself, here is a step-by-step guide for making your job easy. So, grab your tools, and let’s get started!
Prepare the room
Preparing the room is the first step to proceed with the staining process.
- Move all the rugs and furniture in the room into another place.
- Then, clean the bamboo floor to remove all the dirt and dust.
- If the room has an exhaust fan, turn it on to make the dust and air go out.
- Make sure to close the door and cover the air vents with plastic sheets. This step will help keep the air with VOCs in the room and prevent it from spreading in the house.
Prepare yourself
If you are allergic to dust, you need to prepare yourself too! While sanding the bamboo, it can release dust and VOCs into the air. It may make breathing difficult for a person with no respiratory issues as well.
- Put on a mask or cover your face by tying a cloth around. It will prevent the dust and VOCs from getting into your lungs.
- You can also wear gloves to keep your hands protected. However, it’s not necessary.
Sand the floor
The next step is to sand the bamboo floor. Before painting a new layer, you have to remove the one already present. It will also help the bamboo floor absorb the darker stain efficiently.
- After putting on your mask, take the drum sander and put sandpaper on it.
- Then, start the sanding process, ensuring that you’re sanding at an angle to the bamboo grain. This step will prevent any splinters during the process.
- You only need to sand off the topmost layer. Also, a drum sander makes the process easier as you don’t have to apply too much pressure.
- For checking if you’re applying the right amount of pressure, see the sawdust. White sawdust means you’re doing it perfectly. If it’s darker, you need to apply less pressure.
- For sanding the edges of the bamboo floor, you can use a floor edger and sandpaper.
Vacuum it
Vacuuming is the best option to remove the dust, and VOCs emitted during the process. You can also sweep the area. However, vacuuming will ensure that no dust particles remain on the floor and the air.
It will also prevent any uneven finish on the floor.
Apply the stain
- You can apply the stain by two methods. The first is to use a cloth and wipe the stain on the bamboo floor. Another method requires the use of a paintbrush.
- You’ll need to apply two thin coats for the best finish.
- After applying the first coat, wait for two hours to dry it. Then, you can apply the second coat. Check out the list of the best floor paints on Amazon now!
Apply the finishing coat
- Applying the finish follows the same steps as applying the stain.
- Make sure the stained floor is completely dry. Then, apply a thin layer of the finish.
- Once dried, you can add another layer.
How Much Does It Cost To Refinish A Bamboo Floor?
Although refinishing a bamboo floor is cheaper than installing a hardwood floor, the cost will depend on various factors. They include the room size, location, tools, etc. If you refinish the bamboo floor yourself, you can expect to pay $1 – $2 per square foot. However, if hiring someone, the cost can be $3 – $5 per square foot.
What Is The Best Finish For Bamboo Flooring?
Lacquer is considered the best finish for bamboo flooring. It gives a shiny look to the bamboo and offers additional strength. You can also apply polyurethane because it is thick and prevents scratches.
How Can I Make My Bamboo Floor Look New Again?
While refinishing the bamboo floor will give a fresh look, there are other ways of making the bamboo floor look new again.
- Sweep the floor regularly or use a vacuum cleaner.
- Clean any spills and dirt immediately from the floor.
- Use a floor cleaner to mop the bamboo floor.
- Rescreening the bamboo floor is another option. You’ll need to buff the top layer of the finish and apply another layer of a new finish.
Final Thoughts
You can stain the bamboo flooring or darken it to make it look new again. The refinishing process may take some time, but the results will be worth the effort.
Also, make sure you use the best finish and clean the bamboo floor regularly to keep it in the best condition.
