Cork flooring has become a very popular choice in the home, providing both durability and comfort. Although a somewhat pricey avenue when it comes to flooring, cork has many benefits that make it well worth the cost. 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 comparable in price to ceramic tile. The many advantages 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 wear and tear. Cork is also comprised of over 90% air, allowing it to take shocks gently, while also quickly rebounding to its original 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 lose its shape when wet for extended periods, 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 retain its beautiful finish for generations, with just a little care. Suberin, a natural compound within cork, works to keep the cork intact. 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 absorption, absorbing noise instead of reflecting it as hardwood is prone to do.
With little maintenance, cork flooring is known to last for many years, as it has in public buildings for a long time. 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 typically be installed by either gluing down segments, or using interlocking sections called a "floating floor." Interlocking panels are a little more expensive, but you will save on installation costs, as well as improved general durability. Cork flooring is a great alternative to hardwood, and is available today in many affordable models.