Cork flooring has seen a boom in popularity in the residential market, delivering both durability and comfort. Although a somewhat expensive option when it comes to flooring, cork has many advantages 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 creates a limited supply for a material in high demand. Cork flooring is about the same in expense to ceramic tile. The many benefits 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 made out of over 90% air, allowing it to absorb shocks gently, while also quickly coming back to its former shape. This ability gives cork flooring great resiliency, allowing it to support those standing on it while also maintaining stability. 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 splitting. Easy 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. Suberin is also fire resistant, and does not emit any toxic emissions when burnt. The springiness of the cork structure also allows for great noise cancellation, absorbing noise instead of bouncing it as hardwood is prone to do.
With just a little upkeep, cork floors are known to last for many years, just as it has in a variety of commercial and government buildings. As cork flooring has grown in acceptance, the styles available have also grown. Cork flooring today can be ordered in a wide variety of colors, shades, and patterns. Cork flooring can normally be installed by either gluing down sections, or using interlocking sections called a "floating floor." Interlocking panels are a little more expensive, but will cut down on the associated installation expenses, as well as improved general reliability. Cork flooring is a great alternative to hardwood, and is available today in many affordable styles.
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