We currently use only bamboo in our product development, but are examining the possibility of incorporating other sustainably harvested materials into our products. We are undertaking extensive testing to ensure that the best characteristics of each raw material can be utilized in the final flooring products. After assessing the sustainability factor, we look at the following factors: durability (strength and hardness), resistance (insects, changes over time), adhesion properties, physical strand properties (size and shape and testing within these categories), feasibility of harvesting (proximity to manufacturing site and logistics of transportation), and economic viability (abundance, cost, and long-term resource plans).

The Strandwoven™ bamboo process allows a much increased yield from the material, which helps make the product cost competitive. Traditionally, high quality bamboo flooring manufacturing techniques use only 65% of the raw material, with the remaining material going to waste. This waste material is traditionally burned. The Strandwoven process increases the total yield to 84%, substantially decreasing wastage. This results in a positive affect on both pollution and air quality.

Bamboo is a widely varied grass and the fastest growing plant in the world. It includes more than a hundred genera, and covers over 1000 different species. Depending on the location, conditions, and species, bamboo ranges in size from less than a few feet to over 100 feet in height, and up to over 12-inches in diameter. It can grow up to a meter per day until it reaches its final height, which can take as little as three months. Once this height is reached the culm (stalk) begins to mature and harden, gaining strength until it is harvested or dies naturally. Due to this rapid growth period, bamboo has over 25 times the yield (weight per acre/ per year) of timber. One hectacre of bamboo can yield between 22 to 44 metric tons of raw material. Propagated by rhizomes (the root system), bamboo quickly regenerates after the harvest.

The Strandwoven™ bamboo process is unique. Cut bamboo culms and post industrial bamboo waste from other bamboo manufacturing operations are kiln-dried, coated uniformly in a formaldehyde-free and heat-sensitive resin, and then compressed with heat under intense pressure to form a large and dense log. The log is then cut into planks which are further milled into bamboo flooring and other products. The result is a product that is beautiful, practical, competitive, and environmentally-friendly.