Cork Flooring in Your Home
An Environmentally Friendly Tile Product
Cork flooring has been around for a long time and it's making a comeback in a big way.
Many people visualize cork flooring as only available in a brown color. With modern technology, it can be stained to suit any décor and cut into a variety of patterns and textures. Some of the other available colors are black, dark green, navy blue, ivory and terra cotta. Installation is easy because cork flooring is manufactured in easy-to-install click and lock pieces.
Why is Cork Flooring Environmentally Friendly?
The product comes from the bark of the Cork Oak tree and is peeled away from the trunk approximately every 10 years. The tree regenerates its bark and can be harvested in years to come. With an average life span of 200 years, one tree can be harvested 20 times.
Benefits of Cork Flooring
- Cork is naturally anti-static and hypo allergenic. This makes it a good choice for allergy sufferers.
- It insulates against heat and cold; therefore, cork is ideal for cold basement floors or houses with crawl spaces. Even if a room is chilly, the floor will feel just right.
- Cork absorbs sound so it provides a good noise barrier between floors. It can also reduce the noise in the room where it’s installed. This is fantastic for apartments
- Cork is naturally shock absorbent and this prevents back and joint fatigue when having to stand for long periods of time.
- Cork contains a natural insect repellent called suberin which keeps termites away.
- Cork is mildew, rot, and mold resistant. It’s also fire retardant.
Care for Cork Floors
Do not drag furniture across the floor because this may cause gouging and scratches. Affix felt protectors or fabric backed casters on the feet of your furniture. Not only will this allow you to freely move your furniture, it will help protect your floor from the day to day use of your furniture.
If there is heavy foot traffic in your room, you should consider using an area rug. Be very sure to use a rug that can be used with cork flooring. Rubber or foam back rugs can inhibit ventilation and cause your floor to discolor. If your floor is near an outside entrance, it is a good idea to have a wipe mats adjacent to your cork floor. Over time, dirt can penetrate the floor surface.
Most cork flooring has a sealant applied at the factory. If the cork is not sealed, apply wax or urethane. Please check with your retailer to discuss options for treating unsealed cork.
You can sweep or dry mop a cork floor. A vacuum can be used but only if the beater bar is disabled. Wet cleaning is not advisable because the water can seep into the surface and tile joints. If it’s necessary to clean with water, use a slightly damp mop or cloth and immediately wipe with a dry cloth. A mild detergent or vinegar may be used.
Cork Floors Long Term Care
Over time, the urethane sealant will wear. After a light sanding, a new coat can be applied. Having a professional do this job is advised. Wax finishes wear out quicker and have to be re-applied.
Is Cork Flooring For You?
If you want something that is easy on the feet and quiet to the ears, cork does it best. If you want something that’s extraordinary and lasts a lifetime, you will not be disappointed. If you are concerned about the environment, remember that cork trees are never cut down.
