Cork Flooring

Cork flooring has seen a boom in popularity in the residential market, providing both durability and comfort. Although a slightly expensive avenue when it comes to flooring, cork has many benefits that make it a great investment. 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 about the same in expense to ceramic tile. The many advantages of a cork floor, however, make cork an attractive option.

As the main defensive mechanism of ages old trees, cork has natural properties that make it resistant to moisture, insects, and wear and tear. Cork is also comprised of over 90% air, allowing it to take shocks gently, while also quickly coming back to its former form. This property 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 resistant to moisture. Unlike a normal hardwood floor that may warp or buckle when exposed to moisture, cork flooring can retain its shape without cracking. Easy maintenance and clean up of spills will maintain cork flooring in prime condition for many years.

A cork floor will retain its beautiful finish for generations, with just a little care. 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 springiness of the cork structure also provides great noise absorption, 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 styles available have also grown. Cork flooring today can be bought in a wide variety of colors, shades, and patterns. Cork flooring can normally be installed by either gluing down segments, or using interlocking segments known as a "floating floor." Interlocking panels are slightly more expensive, but will cut down on the associated installation expenses, as well as improved general reliability. Cork flooring is a excellent alternative to hardwood, and is available today in many affordable styles.