How Cork Floors Are Made (cork flooring)

by Melissa LaRose

Cork Flooring Information

Making of Cork Flooring

1. Cork flooring's main ingredient is cork bark, from the cork oak tree. The cork bark is harvested from cork oaks in Southern Europe, mainly Portugal. The process begins with the gathering, cleaning and boiling of the cork. The cork is then put through a grinding process and afterward a resin is mixed with the ground cork. The material is then pressed into sheets and then baked in a kiln. The heating process caramelizes the natural sugars in the cork which colors the cork. Heating times are altered to adjust the final color of the cork flooring. Additional dyes can be added to change the final color. Cork is sold in sheets, planks and tiles.

Harvesting Cork

2. Cork harvesting is done by hand and is a regulated commercial enterprise. The oak trees being harvested must be at least 25 years old before being included in the harvest cycle. Removing the cork does not affect the tree's health and, in fact, the bark grows back in time and the tree stays healthy throughout the process. Cork harvesting is a highly renewable, "green" source of material. Cork trees being harvested today are in some cases 200 years old and have been harvested for more than a century.

Components of Cork Flooring

3. The most common cork floor is a floating floor. A floating floor is made up of four layers of cork and is installed without the use of adhesives or glues. The first layer is the under-layer and is a low-density cork used to provide a base. The next layer is a stabilizing layer. This layer is high- or medium-density fiberboard, using a tongue and groove construction. The third layer is the core, also made of cork, and it offers further sound insulation and absorbs impact. The final layer is the veneer of cork bark. This is the layer that will be seen. Final layers are almost always sealed with an oil, varnish or wax for further protection of the cork.

Advantages of Cork Flooring

4. Cork is a renewable, green product that is being used in place of linoleum and vinyl products. Cork is nontoxic, antimicrobial, mold resistant, insect resistant and doesn't succumb to mildew. Its durability and sound resistance are great for modern homes and areas for family gatherings. Sometimes cork is installed beneath other types of flooring for its deadening and acoustical properties. Cork has good "memory" which means it bounces back from high pressure like high heels. It does not produce any odors or irritants and is chemical-free. Cork floors do need to be maintained regularly and may require the use of a particular type of floor cleaner.

Cork flooring is interesting.

How to Select Cork Flooring (cork flooring)

Cork Flooring: Selecting the Cork Floor

Cork Flooring

Choosing the finishing touches of any room can be difficult. You may not be fond of traditional wood floors and are looking for another option other than traditional tile or carpeting. Natural cork is a great durable material for your home or office. Here are a few tips to help you select your cork flooring.

1. Step 1
   
   Cork

   Visit your a merchant that carries cork flooring. This can be done online. View the different shades, patterns, and textures.

2. Step 2
   
   Colored Cork

   Think about what colors you want on your floors. Do you want a look similar to wood ? Or do you prefer a textured natural look ? There are hundreds of shades and patterns. You can combine the different looks to create a unique room.

3. Step 3
   
   Cork planks

   Measure the space that will have the new flooring. Select and order your cork tiles or cork planks.

4. Step 4
   
   Completed cork tile installation

   Find your inspiration and decide how you will lay out your cork flooring. Many cork products can be installed yourself of by a professional.

Good basics on Cork Flooring!

Cork Flooring: Pros and Cons of Cork Flooring

by Karen Lawson

Cork Flooring: Pros and Cons

Cork flooring offers a resilient alternative to traditional carpet and hardwood floors. A product of trees that can live for 500 years, the material used for cork flooring is actually bark naturally shed every nine to 15 years. Choosing a cork floor can provide benefits and drawbacks. Here are some things to consider when deciding if a cork floor is right for your needs.

First, the Good News

Cork flooring provides and attractive and resilient alternative to traditional flooring materials. It can also be used as sub flooring to provide "spring" beneath hardwood and carpeted floors. When used as a flooring surface, it provides cushion and "give" not provided by less flexible flooring materials, including ceramic tile, hardwood and cement.

Hypoallergenic

Cork flooring is hypoallergenic and resistant to the mold and mildew commonly associated with other types of flooring. Cork flooring is made from the bark of cork oak trees, which is resistant to invasive organisms as a means of protecting the trees This does not mean that cork floors remain 100 percent problem-free. It is important to follow manufacturer's guidelines for installation and maintenance of your cork flooring.

Versatile and Durable Flooring

If you are looking for attractive flooring that blends with your decor and stands up to a busy household, a cork floor can be a great choice. Available in dozens of natural tones and man-made colors, cork flooring requires little maintenance and is typically more durable than wood. Cork flooring provides more "give" than hardwood, and is warmer to the touch, too.

Potential Drawbacks

Cork flooring costs more than linoleum and carpeting, and there are potential issues concerning its use and placement. A significant issue with cork flooring can occur when heavy furniture is placed on it. If you're going to place heavy objects on cork flooring, it is important to use coasters under furniture legs to distribute the weight, or your cork flooring could become indented with imprints from heavy furniture. Similar damage can occur if heavy objects are dropped on cork floors.

No Wet-Mopping

You can't use a wet mop to clean cork floors as any water absorption can damage cork flooring. Spills and stains can be cleaned with a damp rag. Cork flooring is typically finished with polyurethane, which protects it from damage, but as with other flooring, removing spills promptly can reduce the possibility of permanent damage.

Potential Discoloration

Cork floors can change color if exposed to direct sun, and may gradually discolor due to age. When planning how to use cork flooring, consider sunlight exposure. Protecting your cork floor from long hours of strong sunlight can prevent discoloration.

Comparing Costs and Warranties

When selecting cork flooring, check manufacturer's warranties and compare cork to other types of flooring suitable for your floor. Cork offers an unusual appearance, warm surface, and can enhance most decor, but it can be permanently damaged by heavy objects and sustain discoloration if consistently exposed to strong sunlight. Evaluate your planned use of cork flooring by considering its benefits and potential flaws to determine if cork flooring is an appropriate investment for your home.

Cork Flooring

Revitalizing your old cork floors (cork flooring)

by Jerry Work

Cork Flooring

Home builders started using cork flooring in their home plans during the 60's and 70's. Cork floors became less popular over time due to the lack of necessary cleaning materials, which led to a problem with the floors fading.

The recommended initial maintenance isn't something most wood flooring owners are familiar with. Unless you have used a more common maintenance solution such as scotch guard for your fabric furniture materials. When the flooring industry discusses initial maintenance they're usually referring to floor types such as hardwood, bamboo, laminate and cork flooring.

Once you have selected a cork flooring dealer, made your purchase and had the new flooring installed, you should seriously consider initial maintenance. Your new cork flooring will have a shiny finish and a protective coating to prevent damange once you apply the protectant and sealant after the factory dirt and grime has been removed.

If your home currently has cork flooring installed, you can follow a quick two step process for cleaning and restoring the cork flooring. Revitalizer restoration and buffing should allow you to easily maintain your floors. With a little time and elbow grease your old floors will look new again. You shouldn't have to forget how great the cork floors looked when they were restored or installed. There is a lot of information online that discusses proper maintenance. Visit your favorite search engine using phrases such as "cork flooring maintenance" or "maintaining cork flooring" and you shouldn't have any problems finding the information you need to get your cork floors looking new again.

Cork flooring is the best!

Cork Flooring: Some Basics You Should Know

Cork Flooring
by My Dream Home Registry

Cork flooring is one of the most remote flooring options out there today. For whatever reason, cork flooring never did quite catch on like regular wood flooring did, or even to the point of vinyl and laminate flooring. The reason why? There really is no given reason why cork flooring never did quite gain the popularity of its counterparts but it is important nevertheless to realize that cork flooring is just as viable a flooring option as any other material out there on the market.

If you are looking for a new option for flooring in your home, you should consider the many different benefits that cork flooring options. In order to help you along the way to a final decision, here are a few basic facts about cork flooring for you to consider:

COMFORT

Cork flooring is one of the most comfortable options for flooring in your home. The hard wood and ceramic flooring that is available in many homes is bad for your body in a sense, leading to sore muscles. There is not as much pliability under a wooden floor or a ceramic floor as there is with a cork floor, so when you take steps every time you set your foot on a cork floor helps absorb the shock of the step.

This makes it perfect for athletes or those who are nursing injuries, long and short term.

HEALTH

Cork flooring is one of the better options for your health as well. If you have allergies, cork flooring is great options as it does not allow mildew and mold to fester without being seen like many other flooring options do. Cork flooring does not attract dust or pollen, and the floors do not let small fibers go to irritate your sense. In addition, cork floors are hypoallergenic and they resist static electricity.

If you have issues with carpet fibers and the little mites that come in carpet, cork flooring is a good option. There is no place for them to hide, so when you sweep or clean, you sweep them away and don't have to worry about them anymore, getting into your eyes and nose and causing problems.

DURABILITY

Cork flooring is one of the more long last options for flooring in your home, if you know how to care for it. If you want a floor that can outlast you, cork flooring is a great option but you have to make sure that it is well maintained. There are professionals who specialize in caring for cork floors or you can get the materials to care for your cork floor on your own.

Cork flooring is not as prone to scratching or chipping as hard wood is, either so your mind can rest a tad bit more when it comes to the hap hazardous habits of your little ones.

EFFICIENCY

If you don't like the feeling of a stone-cold floor on an equally cold day, you should consider the benefits of cork flooring for your flooring needs. Cork flooring is known to be an excellent insulator, helping to keep the warmth and the cold in the house where it belongs. If you are looking at creating an energy efficient home, cork flooring is the floor covering option for you.

VARIETY

Whatever you need as far as flooring goes; chances are that you will have that option in cork flooring. You can buy cork flooring in just about any color and you can buy the cork flooring in planks like hardwood flooring or in tiles like linoleum or vinyl flooring. Cork flooring comes with a vinyl topcoat or a natural topcoat; either one is fine but people choose the vinyl-covered option for easier cleaning. This option is a bit more expensive than the natural, unfinished cork.

Whichever way you slice it, cork flooring is an excellent option for any person who is looking for a relatively inexpensive option for flooring in the home. Cork flooring not only more comfortable and insolent than regular flooring or carpeting, but it gives you the freedom of expression and versatility that vinyl and laminate flooring offer, with twice the quality. If you want a good, long lasting floor you should consider investing in cork flooring.

Installing and Maintaining Flooring More Easily (Cork Flooring)

Cork Flooring
by Ray J. Walberg

A lot of people out there when thinking of cork flooring, visualize a bulletin board. But that's not reality. Available at a large number of shades and color ranging from light to dark, the cork flooring has a beautiful material and texture. Custom designed to fit any type of interior décor; cork flooring comes at a variety of patterns and textures that includes pergo flooring like wood grain and marble patterns.

Advantages of Cork Flooring

A good insulating material, cork flooring keeps your house cool in summer season and warm in winter. Cork flooring brings down the energy bill in your home during winter due to its energy efficiency, which is more than that of discount wood flooring or Armstrong laminate flooring. Cork flooring also brings down the noises in another floor or room, as it's a good sound insulator.

In addition the material of cork flooring feels softer than stone or wood flooring, Bellawood or ceramic tiles. Your feet will feel wonderful on the cork flooring itself. A good place to put the cork flooring is in the kitchen. It's the place where you probably spend most of your time standing. Chances of breaking your brittle utensils if you drop them are lower than on stone flooring or tiles. Its resistance to fire is definitely an added bonus.

The cork wood tree's bark is used to make the cork and it is environmentally beneficial. These trees can mainly be found in Portugal and Spain. Without harming or cutting the trees, its barks are simply stripped away thus it doesn't affect the number of trees in anyway. The bark that has been stripped is replaced by new ones and in about nine years gets ready for the taking again.

Cork Flooring Installation

Cork flooring can be installed easily. The material is either glued or nailed during installing. Cork flooring can be done over concrete or wood. Making sure that the sub floor is dry is an essential criterion. To control moisture and prepare the surface, it's always helpful to apply a sealer. Cork tiles are easier to install as they can be simply peeled away and stuck again.

The adhesive can be spread with the help of a paint roller on the sub floor and the tiles can be placed next. The seams are hardly noticeable and one can use sharp knives to cut angles or corners for the perfect fit. Roll a 100 pound weighted floor roller on it once the tiles are properly placed. The floor roller can be rented from any tool-renting place. For added protection a clear urethane can be placed on the tiles as it helps to make the floor more water resistant.

Cork Flooring Maintenance

Maintaining cork flooring is easy as it's pretty easy to clean. Clear away the dirt by a sweep of broom and mop it with a damp cloth when required. After some years the finishing might start to wear off. Lightly sand the floor with floor sanders. After sanding thoroughly, give a urethane coating for floor protection. To make the floor more water-resistant add several urethane coating.