Cork flooring has seen a boom in popularity in the residential market, delivering both durability and comfort. Although a slightly pricey avenue when it comes to flooring, cork has many advantages that make it well worth the cost. Cork is harvested from cork trees in several Mediterranean countries, and it can only be harvested once every nine years. This makes the supply of cork very limited, driving up prices worldwide. Cork flooring is comparable in expense to ceramic tile. The many benefits of a cork floor, however, make it worthwhile to invest in cork.
As the main defensive mechanism of ages old trees, cork has natural properties that make it resistant to moisture, insects, and abrasion. Cork is also made out of over 90% air, allowing it to absorb shocks gently, while also quickly returning to its original form. This ability gives cork flooring great resiliency, allowing it to cushion those standing on it while also remaining level. As tree bark, cork flooring is also very tough against moisture. Unlike a normal hardwood floor that may lose its shape when wet for extended periods, cork flooring can retain its shape without splitting. Easy maintenance and clean up of spills will maintain cork flooring in prime condition for many years.
A cork floor will maintain its beautiful finish for several years, given simple maintenance such as sweeping and mopping. Suberin, a natural compound within cork, repels insects and prevents water damage. The compound is also fire resistant, and does not emit any toxic emissions when burnt. The soft air containing structure of the cork also provides great noise cancellation, absorbing noise instead of bouncing it as hardwood is prone to do.
With just a little upkeep, cork flooring is known to keep for many years, as it has in public buildings for a long time. As cork flooring has grown in acceptance, the options associated with it have also multiplied. Cork flooring today can be bought in a wide variety of colors, shades, and patterns. Cork flooring can typically be installed by either gluing down portions, or using interlocking sections called a “floating floor.” Interlocking panels are slightly more expensive, but you will save on installation costs, as well as improved general reliability. Cork flooring is a wonderful alternative to hardwood, and is available today in many affordable models.
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