Learn About Cork Flooring

Cork flooring has seen a boom in popularity in the residential market, providing both durability and comfort. Although a slightly expensive option 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 the trees only yield a crop once every nine years. This creates a limited supply for a material in high demand. Cork flooring is comparable in price to ceramic tile. The many advantages of a cork floor, however, make it worthwhile to invest in cork.

As the bark of a long lasting tree, cork has natural properties that make it resistant to moisture, insects, and abrasion. Cork is also comprised of over 90% air, allowing it to absorb shocks gently, while also quickly rebounding to its original shape. 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. Simple maintenance and clean up of spills will keep 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 reflecting 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 become more and more popular, the options associated with it have also multiplied. Cork flooring today can be ordered in a great spectrum of colors, shades, and patterns. Cork flooring can typically be installed by either gluing down portions, 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. Natural Cork flooring is a great alternative to hardwood, and is available today in many affordable models.