Cork flooring is easy to care for and very comfortable underfoot. It’s also very versatile, making it a great choice for different rooms and purposes. Wondering if cork flooring is right for you? This guide will tell you everything you need to know.
Cork is made into two types of flooring: glue-down tiles and click-together planks. A few years back, waterproof cork planks also became available, making this flooring option suitable for anywhere in a home, including bathrooms and laundry rooms. Cork flooring is available in various looks and colours, and homeowners will find options that suit their tastes and design preferences. Whether you like the classic speckled design or prefer finishes that mimic wood or stone, cork flooring can be a great choice!
Basics of Cork Flooring
- If cork flooring is properly maintained, it can last several decades. Failure to care for your cork floors will result in a shorter lifespan of about 15 years.
- Floating cork clicks together without the need for fasteners or adhesives. If you enjoy home projects, this option is considered a DIY-friendly job. Glue-down cork requires experience and skill because you’ll need a perfectly flat subfloor and quick-setting adhesive. Hiring a professional installer is recommended for glue-down cork.
- Although the process is simple, maintenance is required. You’ll need to vacuum your cork flooring, and you can also use a damp mop. Protection from sliding chair legs and grit-covered footwear is also required. Depending on how much use your flooring gets your cork flooring may need recoating with polyurethane every 3 to 10 years.
- The cost of cork flooring is roughly $5 to $10 per square foot. Professional installation will increase the cost, adding about $2 to $3 per square foot for a floating floor and about $6 to $10 for glue-down flooring.
- Warranties are available and range from 15 years to a lifetime. There should be a warranty for the cork and one for the finish.
Do you think cork flooring is right for you?
If you are considering installing cork flooring, you need to understand its characteristics. The right information will help you determine if cork flooring is right for your home, and a pros and cons list is a great place to start.
Pros
- Comfortable and resilient – Cork flooring is cushiony underfoot and offers a high level of comfort for both your feet and back.
- Warm and quiet – The air cells in cork flooring material make it a natural thermal and acoustic insulator. This is why cork flooring is a great choice in colder climates.
- Insect, mould, and fire resistant – Cork repels moisture, mould, bugs, and even fire because it contains an antimicrobial wax called suberin.
- Easy replacement – Damaged spots can be replaced easily. If any tiles or planks are ruined, you can easily remove just the affected pieces and have new ones installed.
- Eco-friendly – Cork oaks can live for 200 years or more and regrow their bark roughly every nine years.
Cons
- Fades in direct sunlight – Cork flooring can lighten with exposure to ultraviolet light, although you can apply UV protectants in a clear coat, which will serve as a buffer.
- Prone to scratching—Like wood, cork can become scratched over time, especially if your household has pets. The topcoat will need to be refreshed regularly in high-traffic areas.
Types of Cork Floors
Click-and-lock floating planks
This option can be installed over existing flooring like vinyl or tile. These planks click together and are available in a range of looks. Many of these products contain cork veneers, often stained or photo-printed with a realistic wood or stone image.
DIY installation is possible with click-and-lock floating panels, which can be laid horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. This allows homeowners to achieve different patterns, including herringbone, which is very popular.
Glue-down tiles
These tiles are adhered to the subfloor and are ideal for those who want a showpiece pattern or an authentic mid-century look. Agglomerated cork is pressed into blocks, sliced into sheets, and cut into tiles that are either homogeneous or heterogeneous. Homogenous means the material looks the same throughout, whereas heterogeneous means the tiles have a veneer layer that can be stained or printed.
Glue-down tiles are available in various colours, shapes and sizes, which sets this option apart from floating cork. They are available in triangles and pentagons, and homeowners can choose mosaic patterns.
Styles of Cork Flooring
- Dramatic veining – This features a bold marbled pattern.
- Staggered stripes – Glue-down tile can be sanded and refinished because it is made from homogeneous cork.
- Faux Stone – This style can hold up to heavy traffic at home.
- Harvest hue – You can order this style in any size or shape, and its earthy orange colour will instantly warm up any space.
- Classic cork – There are no agglomerated pieces, meaning this click plank’s square edges create a seamless look.
- Versatile shade – This glue-down cork is available in dozens of shapes, and its soothing blue colour is natural for subtle patterns.
- Tile effect – You can achieve the limestone look while enjoying a springy feel underfoot.
- Wood look – This style comes embossed with realistic graining and knots.
Regardless of the type and style of cork you choose, you should order at least ten percent more than is needed to allow for any cutting mistakes. This will also ensure a good supply of replacement tiles or planks for the future.
Caring for your Cork Floors
Cork is prone to scratching, which is why protection is required. To prevent abrasion, try implementing a leave-your-shoes-at-the-door policy and adding felt buttons to the bottoms of furniture legs. Vacuum daily to remove grit, and use a just-damp mop once a week to maintain your cork flooring.
Are you thinking about cork flooring for your home? Let Floor Country Canada help. As Winnipeg’s leading flooring experts, we’ve been helping homeowners reinvent their living spaces for years through innovative materials like cork. Contact our team today for a free in-home consultation.