I have just purchased some bamboo flooring. The type is carbonized vertical.
Before installation I inpsected the planks. I have found gaps and voids between the bamboo strips on the bottom surface of the planks. Is this normal / acceptable for "A" grade flooring?
Please advise.

Not sure what you mean but if it looks somewhat like the attached profile than the answer is yes.

( http://www.northendhardwoods.com/wp-con ... rofile.png )

Before installing this flooring product make sure you know what you are doing (does not sound so based on your inquiry), most libraries have a copy of Don Bolinger his book/dvd titled "installing hardwood floors".

Johannes

Hello Johannes-

Sorry if my description was not clear.
What you haave sent is an illustrated cross section of the plank milling profile.
What I have are actual cracks and splits in the bottom surface of my bamboo flooring planls.
Wish I could down load some pix of the condition.
Please advise.

Unhappy buyer-

I would love to have some 15 inch wide plank like in your end profile picture, Johannes LOL



Bob, that doesn't even sound like flooring I would even consider installing. Can you return it?

Dear respondent-

Thanks very much for your opinion.
This is my feeling also and I just wanted some additional confirmation before refusing the sub-standard product.
The Chinese supplier is trying to claim that this a normal condition for the product but I do know better.
This stuff would not pass as "C" grade much less the "A" grade it passed off as.

Thanks again for your input and very best regards.[/b]

With any laminated product and typically manufacturers use a lower quality bamboo for the lower level veneers. But the top should be smooth. Not sure where your located but bamboo can take extra care humidity wise.

What is the brand of flooring, and where did you purchase it?

Hello Jeff-

I ordered the flooring from a factory in Anji, China.
Z.T.Bamboo to be exact.
Did not purchase the flooring but rather cancelled the order after finding 30% sub-standard plank conditions in the first pallet.
The flooring style was traditional carbonized vertical short plank.
Will let you know how the situation unfolds moving forward.

Best regards,
Bob262

btw- I have actually lived and worked in China since 2001.
If anyone on the forum needs China side assistance with anything feel free to contact me.
www.duhsourcingsolutions.com

Best regards,
Bob262