Cork Flooring

Cork is an ideal floor covering for humid locations, and is one of the most eco-friendly flooring options available. Cork is mostly imported from the Mediterranean; it is a completely renewable resource. Properly managed cork tree plantations can be harvested every 7-9 years, and increased demand has led to extensive planting and specialized research to boost yield. Cork flooring is naturally insect repellant, as well as rot, mildew and mold resistant. Cork floors can withstand water as well, making cork a natural choice for extremely humid climates and areas plagued by flooding.

Rooms Where Cork Flooring is Used

When properly sealed, cork floor tiles are an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor applications such as pool decks and gazebo floors. Cork flooring is also in demand for workrooms, laundry areas or entries. Cork flooring may be glued down or a floating floor installed. Floating floors generally are not pure cork but a fiberboard core with cork on both sides; the fiberboard is grooved for a ‘click lock’ snap together application that is great for living areas.

Advantages of Cork Flooring

The primary advantage of cork flooring is the option it offers to the rapidly growing number of ‘green’ homeowners and builders looking for an flooring solution. The price of cork flooring is slightly higher than other comparable floors, but it is durable and will last a long time if properly sealed and maintained. Cork is easier on legs, knees, ankles and feet than tile or vinyl, and is perfect for a workout room.

What to Consider When Purchasing Cork Flooring

When considering cork floor tiles, determine the location in which they will be used to determine what thickness you need and whether a floating or glue down floor is appropriate. Second story rooms can benefit from cork flooring as it is a natural sound dampener, and its non-allergenic properties make cork the ideal solution for allergy sufferers. Cork can be installed over concrete or wooden sub-flooring. The experts at Ideal Floor can help you choose the right thickness of cork flooring and help you decide which application will best suit your home.