Top 7 FAQs About Cork Flooring

Posted by James Anderson on November 21st, 2018

Cork is popular as a flooring option for the various benefits associated with it and its beauty. It is eco-friendly, affordable and comfortable to walk on. Besides being a full-fledged flooring material, it is a popular choice as an underlayment for other flooring options. Customers often have numerous questions about this material, partly because it is an unusual choice when compared to hardwood and other popular options.

This post compiles six questions our experts have encountered from clients regarding cork flooring and answers them.

1. Is cork flooring pet-friendly?

Every flooring type will experience some wear and tear when you have pets roaming around the house and cork is no exception to that. But the general resilient nature of cork makes it more resistant to your pet’s claws. Hence, it is a pet-friendly option provided you trim your pet’s claws periodically.

2. Is cork flooring eco-friendly?

Unlike hardwood, cork flooring is extracted from the bark of cork trees which will grow back. Harvesting of cork oak is strictly regulated. Trees must be 25 years old at least before harvesting to ensure their health. Once harvested, the bark will eventually grow back, leaving the tree as healthy as ever. This makes cork a renewable natural flooring material that is eco-friendly as well.

3. Is cork flooring durable?

Cork flooring is resilient to compression and pressure and can be compressed up to 40 % and still return to its normal shape because of the cellular structure of cork. If it is well cared for, cork flooring can last for decades even when the furniture movement and foot traffic is heavy. Thus, it is a durable flooring option for the household.

4. Can cork flooring resist fire and water?

Cork in its raw form has a natural resistance to fire. However, the method of processing and finishing the product can affect its fire resistance.

A waxy material called suberin is found in cork which makes it significantly water resistant naturally. However, it is best to ensure that the flooring does not get excessively wet and left like that for long to avoid possible water damage.

5. Can cork flooring reduce noise?

Cork is an excellent choice for its sound resistance and ability to muffle noise. It does not creak and groan like wood flooring either. Its sound resistance is enough to make it an eligible choice for recording studios.

6. Where can we install cork flooring?

Cork flooring is versatile and can be used for any room in the house as well as for commercial areas. Since it has a natural resistance to insects and is comfortable to stand on as well, it can be used for the kitchen too. Avoid installing cork in damp areas like the basement and bathroom.

7. How safe is cork flooring for children?

Cork has a cushion-like feel because the cellular structure can trap air in the microscopic compartments that act as natural shock absorbers. Usually, children are more prone to accidents due to slipping. The shock absorbing property of cork makes it a safer choice for them. Even if you drop the glassware by accident, they are not likely to shatter.

Still unsure about whether cork flooring will suit your requirements? Our experts at AA Floors are always ready to help you out. If you are considering cork flooring for your home but have any doubts about it, you can always visit our store during the business hours and explore the collection on the spot.