Thread: Bamboo decking.

I have solid wood (blackbutt) throughout my house and I love it.

Was originally going to get bamboo but I got a great deal on the blackbutt, which I also loved.

Bamboo can be very strong ie compressed Bamboo as far as I have been told is harder than Jarrah.

As to whether it would be good for a deck, I have no idea, I do not see why not, but I have never heard of anyone doing it before?

Never seen it used outside so get in touch with the manufacturers and see what they recomend.

Would possibly be very expensive.

Thanks, guys for your replies. Definitely there are bamboo products made specifically for decking. (Bunnings carries one called Ekodeck). So I would assume that they are weatherproof at least to the extent of conventional decking. My problem is that I can find information only from those who make and/or market the stuff, or those like the staff at the big B, who are paid to sell it. I am seeking an independent opinion from someone who has taken the plunge and used it, and can speak of its workability and durability in the real world.
Regards, Mike.

I'd suggest checking out the sister Renovation forum (Renovate Forums). I just did a search over there for "bamboo deck" and there are a lot of results, looks like there might be some useful information there if you take the time...

Thanks, Sysiphus, that is a mine of information that I never knew existed. Total redesign of my deck plans is now in progress !!!

Originally Posted by mspil

SWMBO has decreed that we are to have a deck outside our back door. She has had intelligence from her coffee group that bamboo is the current fashionable material. There appear to be a number of alternative types of bamboo materials and techniques available. Does anyone have any experience in this field? What are the negatives involved in the use of the material? How does it compare with the more traditional decking timber (e.g. Merbau)?
All information gratefully received. Regards, Mike

I am a bit slow to be joining the Wood work forum - but I am here now.....We can supply bamboo decking. We are testing it out in our local conditions (Melbourne) to see how it holds up - so far, so good.
mspil - you have likely built your deck by now!

Originally Posted by Bamboo4U2!

I am a bit slow to be joining the Wood work forum - but I am here now.....We can supply bamboo decking. We are testing it out in our local conditions (Melbourne) to see how it holds up - so far, so good.
mspil - you have likely built your deck by now!

Yes, you're right. My deck is all done and dusted. I decided to remain conventional, and used 140 x 22 merbau. I surprised myself with how well the job turned out. So, sadly, I am unable to take on a position as your Melbourne guinea-pig.
Regards, Mike.