In the realm of flooring options, the choices are plentiful, yet cork seems to be met with skepticism by many consumers. This natural material boasts numerous virtues along with a few drawbacks.
While it may come with a slightly higher price tag compared to laminate flooring, for certain spaces, cork emerges as the superior choice. While the majority of users have positive experiences with cork flooring, its sales in our region still lag behind in terms of quality.
Embracing Natural Materials
When it comes to flooring, prioritizing natural materials whenever possible is paramount, and cork stands out as one of them. Derived from the bark of a specific oak species cultivated in Mediterranean countries, notably Spain and Portugal, cork can be harvested from the tree after 25 years of growth, with subsequent harvests every eight to ten years. This process doesn’t harm the tree and can be repeated for the tree’s lifespan, which typically spans 150 to 200 years.
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Consequently, cork floorings are as natural as wooden ones, albeit with some differences that bring both advantages and disadvantages. With a density ranging from 120 to 240 kilograms per cubic meter and a porous structure filled with air, cork excels as a thermal insulator, adding to its elasticity, making it a top choice for flooring.
Manufacturing Process
Cork flooring panels aren’t directly cut from tree bark but produced by compressing small cork pieces. When subjected to high pressure during the compression process, a substance is released, binding the cork particles together. Certified manufacturers typically refrain from using additional chemicals or utilize only the minimum permissible binding agents, resulting in a final product that’s almost entirely natural. In recent years, cork floors have gained popularity globally.
Given the limited source of this material, cork panels are manufactured by pressing and processing cork waste from other industries and collected cork closures from wine bottles. Manufacturers now offer various designs depending on whether the panels are made from finely or coarsely ground cork, along with different color options. However, if your main motivation is cork’s natural composition, additional colors might not be the ideal choice.
Comfort and Practicality
Walking barefoot on cork flooring is exceptionally pleasant due to its elasticity, providing a comfortable feel. Furthermore, its excellent thermal insulation ensures a cozy sensation underfoot, far more enjoyable than laminate or hardwood flooring, not to mention ceramic tiles. Cork flooring serves as an ideal alternative to carpets, as it doesn’t accumulate dust and dirt, making room maintenance much easier.
Moreover, cork boasts anti-allergenic properties, making it perfect for individuals prone to seasonal or other types of allergies. These qualities make cork an excellent choice for children’s rooms, where they spend a significant amount of time playing on the floor.
Durability and Other Considerations
Cork is resistant to mold and doesn’t react to moisture, and surprisingly, it’s non-flammable. When installed in children’s rooms, another significant advantage, especially in apartment buildings, is its soft structure, which absorbs and dampens impacts, reducing noise from furniture impacts and various objects. Additionally, cork enhances the room’s acoustics, noticeably reducing echoing when covering an empty room with cork flooring.
Drawbacks and Considerations
Despite its benefits, cork flooring has its drawbacks. Its softness, while comfortable for barefoot walking, also makes it more susceptible to damage from heavy furniture, leaving indentations over time. Cork is also not fond of high heels or sharp objects, making it less than ideal for entryways or hallways. While inherently resistant to moisture, cork floors can be damaged by spills, especially if they penetrate the adhesive or reach beneath the cork panels, as with click systems.
Furthermore, households with pets may find that their furry friends can damage cork flooring. Dogs can’t retract their claws while walking, and cats often perceive cork flooring as tree bark, a place to sharpen their claws.
Despite these drawbacks, cork flooring remains a highly attractive option for those seeking comfort, sustainability, and unique aesthetics in their living spaces. With careful consideration of its properties and proper maintenance, cork flooring can provide a durable and eco-friendly flooring solution for years to come.
Foto: Freepik