Are you looking to add a unique, natural flooring choice to your home? If so, cork might be the answer. Cork flooring is not only eco-friendly, but it’s also one of the most durable types of floor covering available today.
It may offer added warmth and cushioning compared to standard hardwood or tile, and its color selection may surprise you – since cork typically comes in a range of shades from blondes and reds to dark browns. Cost-wise, cork flooring usually falls in mid-range when compared to other materials – further adding to its appeal.
Whether you’re looking for an altogether different experience or just want something new in your current living space, understanding the basics of cork flooring can help make an informed decision as to whether it’s right for your home.
What is Cork Flooring?
Cork flooring is an amazing renewable resource that has been around for centuries. Made from the bark of the cork oak tree, cork floors have been used in European homes since the 1700s. In more recent years, they have become immensely popular in North America as well, providing a beautiful and durable floor surface.
Cork’s remarkable ability to regenerate after it is harvested makes this a sustainable choice for any number of home projects, whether you’re replacing outdated carpets or looking for something truly unique for your bathroom tile or kitchen kitchen backsplash.
Plus, its multiple forms and finishes give homeowners plentiful options when choosing their perfect style. From classic to contemporary lookalikes that mimic hardwood or marble, cork has earned its place as a reliable eco-friendly alternative.
How Much Does Cork Flooring Cost?
Cork flooring is a luxurious material that can bring a touch of sophistication to any room. Although it typically costs more than laminate or vinyl, it is usually less expensive than traditional hardwood.
The cost of cork will also depend on the quality and density of the product, as higher quality materials typically cost more. If you’re looking for a stylish but budget-friendly option, then cork flooring may be a great option for you.
Since cork floors are designed to last for many years without needing to be replaced, they can actually save you money in the long run if properly cared for and maintained.
Pros and Cons of Cork Flooring
Like any type of flooring, there are both pros and cons to cork floors.
Some of the pros include:
-They’re comfortable to walk on because they’re soft and have some give to them. This makes them ideal for homes with small children or pets who might be prone to accidents.
-They’re easy to clean and maintain. A vacuum or damp mop is all you need to keep them looking like new.
-They’re environmentally friendly. As we mentioned before, cork is a sustainable product, and it doesn’t off-gas like some other types of flooring (like vinyl).
-They’re sound absorbent. This makes them ideal for homes with small children or pets who might be prone to accidents.
Some of the cons include:
-They can be scratched or dented by high heels, pet claws, or sharp objects.
-They’re not as durable as some other types of flooring (like hardwood), so they might not be ideal for high traffic areas or homes with small children or pets who might be prone to accidents.
Important Tips For Installing Cork Flooring
If you’ve decided that cork flooring is right for your home, there are a few things you should keep in mind when having it installed:
-Make sure the subfloor is level before installation begins. Uneven floors can cause problems down the road, so it’s best to get this taken care of before the new floors go in.
-Give yourself time to acclimate the boards to your home before installation begins. This means letting them sit in your home for at least 48 hours so that they can adjust to the temperature and humidity levels.
-Make sure you have enough boards on hand before installation begins. It’s always better to err on the side of too many rather than too few because once installation begins, it’s difficult (if not impossible) to add more boards without causing damage to the existing ones.
How To Maintain Cork Floors?
Your new cork floors are an investment and should be well maintained for them to last. Regular vacuuming is the key to keep your cork floor looking like new – use the soft brush attachment and don’t forget those corners and edges!
A damp mop can help keep the surface clean too, just make sure you’re using a mild cleaning solution or just water – harsh chemicals could damage the finish so they should be avoided.
Placing mats at all entrances is also a good preventative measure as it will help collect dirt before it finds its way onto your floors.
Finally, put felt pads under furniture legs to prevent any scratches or dents that might occur when any pieces move around. The combination of these few steps will help keep your cork floors looking polished and beautiful for years to come!
Conclusion
Cork flooring has increasingly become an attractive choice for homeowners due to its benefits and stylish visual appeal. It is known for its cushioning effect underfoot, making for a comfortable walking experience even during prolonged periods of time.
Furthermore, cork flooring is easy to clean and is resistant to scratches and dents. Its sound absorption property also lessens the noise associated with footsteps, allowing you to move through your home without creating any disturbances. Additionally, cork flooring is eco-friendly because it is composed of natural and renewable materials.
With all that this type of flooring offers, it’s no surprise that it has become so popular for many households. Ultimately, taking into consideration all the pros as well as some minor cons (which can be easily mitigated), cork flooring has proven itself to be a reliable option that may suit your needs in more ways than one.
