There are many types of “green flooring” including bamboo flooring (Plyboo, Natural Cork and Teragren).

The important thing to know is that only some of the names (like the above) are actually domestic manufacturers. Most bamboo flooring you'll find are made in China and East Asian countries. The quality of the bamboo is not very certain when imported. The thing to do is really rely on the importer.

Many people agree that the best bamboo flooring is made from the Mosa species of bamboo which has achieved 5 to 7 years of age. This product could be as much as 25% to 100% harder than red oak. When properly produced Bamboo floors are as hard as Maple (one of the hardest woods on the market) and very stable. Unlike many other hardwood products, it needs no finish work at all and comes factory prefinished with usually a state-of-the-art UV resistant varnish that requires absolutely no sanding, staining or filling.

Product from younger bamboo is much inferior. Make sure that when you buy from even places like Home Depot check every for defects (warping, broad discolorations, etc.). There are no grading or uniform quality standards for bamboo. Many manufacturers like Teragren are using their own grading standards to ensure quality.

With  domestic manufacturers there should be  a Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) available to make you aware of any hazards and toxicity issues that might be linked to the binders and finishes being used. Make sure the imported products that you buy also meet these standards.  Look out for hazardous material that they might be using for finishing.

Many of the domestic manufacturers can be found at a wide variety of quality flooring stores. Cost should run in the neighborhood of $4.50 to 6.50 a sq. ft.

Easy to clean and easy to maintain, Bamboo floors are very durable and not to mention one of the most environment friendly flooring available.