Cork flooring has been an option for those looking for a unique option since the late 19th century, but it hasn’t always looked quite as good as it does now. In the earliest days, it was used primarily in public spaces thanks to its natural sound-absorbing properties, but these days, its durability and comfort have it surged in popularity in homes across the United States. It’s a renewable choice with fantastic properties, including the ability to be waterproof. Cork flooring offers a number of great options, but is it right for the wettest areas in your home? A quick look at the most common cork flooring pros and cons may help you decide.
A Closer Look at How It’s Made
Cork flooring actually comes from a plant called the cork oak tree. They are grown in Mediterranean countries such as Portugal, Spain, and Tunisia. The bark of the tree is harvested by hand every 9 to 12 years, once the tree reaches maturity. You can read more about the process on our modern cork flooring page.
The harvesting process involves carefully stripping off the outer bark layer, while leaving the inner bark and the tree itself intact.
Once harvested, the cork bark is stacked and left to dry for several months to reduce moisture content and improve its workability. After drying, the cork is boiled or steamed to remove impurities and make it more flexible. This is a part of the cork flooring installation trend we’ve noticed recently.
Once it has been boiled, the cork bark is left to dry and then cut into thin sheets or panels. These panels are typically around 6 to 12 millimeters thick. The sheets may be left in their natural cork color or dyed to achieve different shades. The panels are often layered together to create a more stable and durable product.
The cork panels are then mixed with a binding agent, such as polyurethane resin or natural adhesives, which helps hold them together. The mixture is then pressed under high pressure and temperature to create solid cork blocks or sheets. This process binds the cork particles and ensures a cohesive structure.
The solid cork blocks or sheets are cut into the desired dimensions, such as tiles or planks, using specialized cutting machinery. The edges can be shaped to create interlocking mechanisms for easier installation.
The cork flooring may undergo additional treatments and finishes to enhance its durability and aesthetics. This may involve applying protective coatings or sealants to improve resistance to moisture, stains, and wear. The surface can also be textured or embossed to mimic the appearance of other materials like hardwood or stone.
The Pros and Cons of Cork Flooring
There are many reasons you may want to consider cork flooring in a space like the kitchen or bathroom where you need a great choice that can withstand some water and humidity. One of them is the fact that it is a soft, comfortable choice in both of those areas. Cork has a unique cellular structure that gives it a cushioned feel underfoot. The material provides a comfortable surface to walk on and reduces strain on the feet, legs, and joints. That makes it perfect in the kitchen.
It’s also an incredibly durable material. It is resistant to cracking, abrasions, and impacts, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. The natural elasticity of cork allows it to bounce back from indentations, reducing the risk of permanent damage.
Additionally, it is naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and pests, making it a hypoallergenic flooring option. It does not retain dust or allergens, contributing to better indoor air quality. This aspect of cork flooring is beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.
For as many benefits as there are with cork, though, there are a few drawbacks as well. First, cork flooring can be sensitive to certain chemicals, such as harsh cleaning agents or solvents. These substances can potentially damage the surface or finishes of the cork. That might be a problem in spaces like the kitchen and bathroom where constant cleaning happens.
It is also sensitive to sunlight. Direct sunlight that hits your floor, again and again, can cause it to fade or change color over time because the UV rays can affect the pigments or finishes applied to the cork, leading to discoloration.
Finally, cork flooring does resist moisture naturally because of the properties of the flooring itself, but it is not completely waterproof. Excessive moisture or standing water can still damage the material, causing it to swell or warp. While it’s a great option, most manufacturers recommend it not be installed in permanently damp areas like steam rooms or near pool decks.
Is Cork the Right Choice For You?
Think cork might be the ideal choice for your kitchen or bathroom? Visit our showroom today to see the many different waterproof cork floorings we have on display and get a free estimate on the perfect cork flooring for your space. Contact East Coast Flooring today for more information.
For those interested in other high-end flooring options, consider visiting our pages on high-end tile flooring, high-end carpet, or high-end wood flooring.