Introduction
Cork flooring is a unique and popular flooring option that has many benefits. It is durable, comfortable, eco-friendly, and soundproof. However, cork flooring can be expensive and difficult to install. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of cork flooring so you can decide if it is the right choice for your home.
Cork Flooring – Cork Floor Tiles, Plank Flooring
What is Cork Flooring?
Cork flooring is a type of flooring made from the cork bark of trees. It is a sustainable and eco-friendly option that has several benefits. Cork flooring is available in tiles or planks and can be glued or floating.
Types of Cork Flooring
There are two main types of cork flooring: tiles and planks. Cork tiles are square or rectangular and can be glued down to the subfloor. Cork planks are long and thin and usually have a tongue-and-groove system that allows them to “float” on the subfloor (meaning they’re not glued down).
Cork Flooring Pros and Cons
Cork floors have several advantages: they’re durable, comfortable, hypoallergenic, soundproof, and eco-friendly. However, cork floors also have some disadvantages: they’re expensive, difficult to install, and susceptible to water damage.
How to Install Cork Flooring
Installing cork floors is not a do-it-yourself project – a professional installer should do it. The first step is to prepare the subfloor by cleaning it and repairing any cracks or damage. Then, the cork tiles or planks are glued down or snapped together (depending on the type of flooring you’ve chosen). Finally, the seams are sealed with caulk or tape to prevent water damage.
The Benefits of Cork Flooring.
Cork Flooring is Durable
Cork flooring is one of the most durable types available on the market. Cork floors have been known to last for decades with proper care and maintenance. Cork floors are so durable that they are often used in commercial settings where high traffic concerns them.
Cork Flooring is Comfortable
Another benefit of cork flooring is that it is extremely comfortable to walk on. This is because cork floors have a natural “give” to them, which makes them much more forgiving than harder flooring surfaces like tile or hardwood. This “give” also makes cork floors much quieter than other types of flooring, as there is less impact when walking on them.
Cork Flooring is Hypoallergenic
Cork flooring may be a good option if you or someone in your family suffers from allergies. Cork floors are naturally hypoallergenic, as they are resistant to mold, mildew, and dust mites – all of which are common triggers for allergies.
Cork Flooring is Soundproof
One of the lesser-known benefits of cork flooring is that it can help to reduce noise levels in your home. This is because cork absorbs sound rather than amplifies it like other types of flooring (such as hardwood or tile). Cork floors may be a good option if you live in a noisy household or want to create a more peaceful atmosphere in your home.
Cork Flooring is Eco-Friendly
Finally, another benefit of cork floors is that they are environmentally friendly. Cork trees are harvested without harming the tree itself, and the bark grows back within a few years. In addition, cork floors can be recycled or reused when they need to be replaced – making them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
The Drawbacks of Cork Flooring.
Cork Flooring is Expensive
Cork flooring can be more expensive than other types of flooring, such as laminate or vinyl. In addition, cork floors may require special cleaners and sealants that can add to the cost.
Cork Flooring is Difficult to Install
Cork floors can be difficult to install, especially if you do it yourself. The tiles or planks can be difficult to fit together, and the adhesive used to hold them in place can be messy and difficult to work with.
Cork Flooring is susceptible to Water Damage
Although cork floors are resistant to water and stains, they can be damaged by water if they are not properly sealed or installed in an area with a lot of moisture.
Conclusion
Cork flooring is a great option for those looking for a durable, comfortable, eco-friendly, and soundproof flooring material. However, cork flooring can be expensive and difficult to install. When considering cork flooring for your home or office, carefully weigh the pros and cons to decide if it is the right choice for you.
