Bamboo Care
Bamboo is a natural product and varies in color, size and shape. Some of the variable factors include the species, the curing or drying process, the application of bleach, stains or varnish and finally the size and age of the cane when it is cut. Bamboo4Sale.com products are made from natural bamboo with several coats of outdoor varnish applied at the factory. In strong sunlight, the varnish will break down and the bamboo will begin to weather and change in color, much like any wood product, to a silver grey. When wet, this silver grey color darkens. Some people prefer the darker natural look and either varnish it after it has aged or not at all. Bamboo is not meant to be placed in the direct sun especially in dry climates. It is normal for bamboo to crack. We recommend reapplying a UV protective outdoor varnish once a year in late spring before the heat of summer. If the product is to be used outdoors and you live in an area with wet winters, it is good to reapply the varnish going into the rainy season to seal it from the moisture. During the winter some bamboo products may grow a black mold on the surface. This does not harm the product and can easily be wiped off with a solution of water and bleach. This should keep it from reoccurring.
Splitting or Cracking
It is normal for bamboo to crack. The smaller the diameter of the cane the less likely there is to be any splitting or cracking of any kind. When canes 2" or greater in diameter are put into the direct sun, especially in dry climates, the larger canes are likely to split and crack open. It is best with larger cane products to acclimate them slowly before using them outdoors and avoid prolonged direct sunlight. All fences use smaller canes and can withstand direct sunlight in any climate without problems!