5 Frequently asked questions about MOSO Bamboo Outdoor

One of the most frequently asked questions about bamboo is, “Is it suitable for outdoor use?” and we would like to give a complete answer. Of course, we answer this question with a confident “yes”. With 75 million ft² of MOSO^® Bamboo Decking installed worldwide and countless positive experiences from installers and deck owners, there is ample evidence of the durability of bamboo decking. We would like to tell you why bamboo decking is even better than just “any good”:

• Bamboo Thermo Decking is one of the most durable materials, with great longevity (Durability Class 1 and a 25-year warranty).
• The high stability of Bamboo Thermo Decking allows for an easy installation with fastener clips, which provides a particularly beautiful, streamlined look.
• Bamboo Thermo ages naturally and takes on a beautiful  silver/gray shade, but can also be oiled if a deep dark brown color is preferred. More about the color change of bamboo decking can be found in this blog.

What is the lifespan of bamboo decking?

Thermally modified densified bamboo is a relatively new technology, so the practical lifespan is unknown. Decking of 5 to 10 years old  still looks as good as the day it was installed apart from appearance and color, which can vary over time and depend on the maintenance schedule. To give an indication and warranty, MOSO^® has extensively tested Bamboo Thermo. Based on this, the expected lifespan has been determined:

• The service life of natural materials, such as wood and bamboo, is classified according to the European standard EN 350. Bamboo Thermo achieves durability class 1;
• MOSO^® Bamboo Thermo Decking boards have an expected life span of 25 years or more;
• The quality and lifespan of the bamboo decking planks is influenced during production;
• Maintenance extends the lifespan of bamboo decking.

Why is stability important to determine if bamboo is suitable for decking?

One of the main advantages of bamboo decking is its stability. The boards are extremely stable, due to the manufacturing process which compresses thermally modified bamboo strips under very high pressure. Additionally, there is hardly any shrinkage, swelling, or deformation which provides a number of advantages:

• The bamboo decking retains its beautiful appearance for years and will remain flat.
• Bamboo decking boards can be installed with clips. Wooden boards are usually screwed down because the clips are under tension when the wood undergoes warping.
• The bamboo decking boards have an end-matched system. Due to this, the boards can be laid lengthwise without any gaps. This results in an aesthetically appealing appearance, and it is convenient during installation.

Easton Park – Treehouse Deck

Does a bamboo deck look any good after a few years?

A deck, whether in a garden or at a hotel or restaurant, is usually constructed to last for many years. It is therefore important that the decking still looks good over time. Experience with MOSO^® Bamboo Decking shows that bamboo decking looks good even after several years. The following is taken into consideration:

• The aging of bamboo decking boards is natural. There is no color fading like with PVC, but the boards acquire a beautiful patina. Aging only affects the surface of the decking and does not affect the quality of the material.
• Some are not fond of a weathered deck look and prefer to keep the warm dark brown color. By applying a layer of decking oil to the surface of the deck annually, or more often, the dark color can be retained.
• Bamboo decking boards are made from solid bamboo. A big advantage with them is that any damage can be repaired. Although the material is hard, damage can occur when sharp objects are dragged across it. By polishing or sanding the boards and re-oiling them, the damage will be completely undetectable.

Want to know more?

Looking for more information or inspiration for a bamboo deck? Check out our Bamboo decking inspiration page and download the MOSO Bamboo Outdoor leaflet.