Vertical Bamboo A vertical pattern is made from bamboo strips that had been laid on edge, with the wider faces of the strips bonded to each other. This gives the floor more lines within the pattern, as well as a very consistent and even coloring. Bamboo floors with vertical orientation are 5/8" thick, but are only one-ply thick from top to bottom. These are ideal for smaller spaces, making them feel more open and roomy.

Horizontal Bamboo The horizontal pattern in bamboo flooring is made from wider strips laid on top of each other to give it its overall thickness. It is typically three-plies thick on a 5/8" floor. Horizontal bamboo floors feature more of the unique properties of the bamboo grass, with more visible nodes (the characteristic joint in the bamboo cane).

While some sources say that there is no advantage in choosing one orientation over the other, others believe that vertical bamboo is actually harder than horizontal bamboo. Whether vertical or horizontal, all bamboo floors offer the same design flexibility and environmental advantages.