Cork Flooring Can Be A Sound Choice

When many people think about cork flooring, their first thought may be they do not want a bulletin board on which to walk. After learning about the benefits of this material, including the benefits to the environment, they become more interested in the prospect of installing cork flooring in their own homes. It has proven a viable alternative to many other flooring choices and has a natural insulation and sound absorption quality that makes it ideal in many applications.

From an environmental standpoint, cork flooring is made from the bark of the cork oak tree's bark, which grows back every eight to 10 years. This means that the tree does not have to be cut down while furnishing material for the flooring. This allows the use of this renewable resource whereas with hardwood flooring, the trees are harvested and cut to make the flooring and it can take up to a hundred years before new trees are ready for harvest. The idea of using cork flooring has the appeal for environmentalist who want the look and durability of wood without destroying the forest.

Various colors of cork flooring are also available making its use in a variety of rooms and environments possible. They are made with snap-lock connections similar to laminate flooring and can be installed either as a floating floor covering or glued to a sub floor material.

Different Texture Offers Comfortable Feel

The natural texture of cork flooring makes it feel naturally different from other flooring materials and its natural soundproofing makes it ideal in apartments or in rooms where noise can be distracting to those in rooms below them. Its insulating qualities also helps reduce heating and cooling costs. The durability and life expectancy of cork flooring is directly dependant on the quality of the installation and following care.

Many times fill materials are used to level sub floors prior to the installation of cork flooring and the appropriate time must be allowed for the leveling material to dry before beginning installation. Additionally, proper preparation of the sub floor surface has to make it smooth, clean and dry in order for the adhesive to provide the proper bond. Once the floor is in place, the glue has to be allowed to dry completely before placing furniture on the new floor.

Cleaning is accomplished by damp mopping or with a daily dust mop to keep hard particles from accumulating on the cork flooring surface. The floor should never be scrubbed with water and liquid spills will need to be cleaned quickly to prevent permanent damage.