Using Guadua Angustifolia Bamboo For Construction

Using bamboo for construction is a fantastic way to build structurally-sound buildings while avoiding much of the time and effort that using traditional materials often requires. Of the many species of bamboo that can be used to build structures, guadua angustifolia is widely-regarded by experts as one of the best. Unfortunately, many people don't realize the benefits of using this bamboo for construction. This article provides some insight on what guadua is and the unique advantages it offers as a construction material.

What Is Guadua Angustifolia?

It is one of the sturdiest of bamboo species. Able to grow, adapt and flourish in several geographic locations, it is most commonly found in the Asian Pacific, Africa and America. Most bamboo grows more quickly than trees and enjoys a greater level of productivity. Guadua has been known to grow even more rapidly than other bamboo species, reaching its full height within 6 months. Because of its fast growth pattern and ability to reach full height quickly, this bamboo can often be harvested after only 5 years, dwarfing the time to harvest of most trees in the same location. This short harvest time makes it an ideal candidate for construction material.

Advantages Of Using Guadua Angustifolia For Construction.

Besides its ability to reach full height and be harvested quickly, guadua offers other advantages. First, this species of bamboo is very easy to work with. Using relatively simple tools, builders can cut and reposition it with much less effort required of regular timber and even other species of bamboo. Second, it's cheaper to use than other materials. Construction costs rise quickly due to the cost of materials. Guadua bamboo can be up to 45% cheaper to use. Third, because bamboo fibers are considerably longer than those of wood, it can often be more sturdy than steel. Guadua's tensile strength actually exceeds that of steel.

There are also environmental advantages to using it for construction. Because it grows and can be harvested so quickly, guadua can help curb the dwindling size of our rainforests. When trees are cut for construction, it takes years to replenish the timber. Also, because it is an organic material, guadua can act as an erosion control that balances the flow of streams and rivers. Another benefit is that it can convert CO2 into oxygen much more quickly than trees. This oxygen can then be used by other living things in the environment, providing a key advantage for a healthy eco-system.

Despite most people not realizing the advantages of using guadua angustifolia as a construction material, there are some who are spreading the word. In many locations, it makes little sense to use regular timber when guadua offers so many cost, structural and environmental advantages!

For more info and pictures about building with bamboo, feel free to visit our website: Guadua Bamboo Furniture & Constructions Costa Rica.

Old Concrete Fence Base