Bambrella Bamboo, Processes & Finishing

Bamboo

The process of producing Bambrella parasols starts with the careful selection of the bamboo. After years of research and rigorous testing we found Moso bamboo to be the only species suitable for outdoor use. The characteristics of Moso bamboo, which set it apart from over a thousand other species, is the size of the individual fiber strands. These strands which are much smaller and more tightly condensed are similar to the structures in fine grained hardwoods like teak. We found other bamboos that had larger strands and were not so tightly condensed were more like softwoods, as the fibers/strands would peel individually, as well as being more susceptible to mold and mildew.

Processes

Once the bamboo has been harvested, the bamboo is split down the length of the pole into strips which are then planed flat ready for lamination. The first stage of the process is to kiln dry the strips which gradually reduces the moisture content to stabilize the bamboo and prevent cracking, warping and splitting. The next stage is the carbonizing process which takes away the starch giving the bamboo a rich golden color. We then laminate the bamboo together to make different sizes of lumber using a hot press which guarantees the glue penetrates and has a much more reliable and even adhesion than the cold press laminating.

Finishing

Obviously this is the basic process but to make the bamboo suitable for outdoor use is far more technical and has taken years of research and development. The bamboo is then precisely machined into different shaped and sized components before being carefully finished with our specially formulated penetrating oil. The parasols are then carefully assembled using quality 304 brushed stainless steel fittings and covers of your choice.