Cork Flooring

Cork is comfortable, tough and very renewable. All of these attributes contribute to the popularity of this outstanding environmentally-friendly flooring over the past several years. Additionally, cork flooring has a natural insect resistance, and is anti-allergenic, which are great qualities for the health of the home occupants and our environment.

Cork Flooring - What Makes it Eco-Friendly?
When you know where cork comes from, and how it is harvested, you will understand why it is one of the most eco-friendly floor options available. A native tree to the Mediterranean area is called the cork oak tree.

The bark from these trees is harvested about once a decade and is used to create wine bottle corks. This harvesting processes does not damage the tree at all, and this is very eco-friendly.

Even more eco friendly is the fact that cork flooring is produced from what's left over after the the wine industry is done with it.  The leftover pieces are ground up and then processed into sheets that are baked in a kiln.

The Benefits of Using Cork Flooring:
It's most obvious benefit is that cork is very renewable and thus, very environmentally friendly. As you will note, there are many other benefits for using this eco-friendly flooring as well.

Because of the cushioning qualities, cork flooring gives a natural sound barrier to foot traffic. This makes it an ideal candidate for multi-floor or multi-family usage.

Also, as a result of it's natural cushioning qualities, it is extremely comfortable for foot traffic. Along with being comfortable for walking a standing, cork flooring also has a natural shock absorbing qualities. Because it's soft, it's a wonderful alternative for anybody with children as well.

It is also very tough and cleaning it is as simple as regular sweeping or vacuuming. The uncomplicated care is attributable to a finish that is applied to the flooring prior to installation.
Take care not to mop cork flooring. There are special cleaners available to cleanse stained or soiled areas.

Cork is very beautiful. There is a wide diversity of shades that are obtainable. The final color of  the flooring depends largely on how long it's baked, but there are definitely options to please just about anyone.

Cork Flooring - What Does it Cost?
If cost is very important consideration when purchasing your flooring products, you will be pleased to know that it is very reasonably priced. The cost can vary between $3.50 to $6.50 psf for the materials only.

The total cost of the materials depends predominately on the plank type and the finish.

Installation can double the cost of the flooring.  That said, most cork flooring is a floating type floor and can easily be installed by homeowners who have basic do-it-yourself knowledge.  In most cases, the entire installation can be accomplished in a weekend.

Caring for Cork Flooring:
After you have purchased and installed your cork floors, caring for them is an simple procedure. However, you'll be interested to make sure that you observe a few uncomplicated steps to keep your floors looking good.

Do not let spills stay on the floor without wiping them up. Even though cork has a finish, you should not let spills rest on the surface for very long.

Use a vacuum cleaner or a broom to clean your cork flooring often. Even though cork is a rather tough product, you need to be vigilant and keep surface debris picked up to prevent surface scratching.
Cork flooring should never be wet moped. Use specially formulated cleaners to clean heavily soiled or stained areas.

After years of use, your finish may need attention.  In the event that the finish of your flooring fades, you'll want to contact a refinishing specialist to assist you.

In closing, cork flooring is eco-friendly, attractive, long-lasting, and very comfortable to walk on.  Add to that the fairly reasonable cost of this green flooring and it's no wonder that cork is so popular!


Article Source: Eco Friendly Cork Flooring.
Additional Information: Cork Floor Tile.