Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Is CORK flooring for you?

Have you been looking at sustainable flooring alternatives to wood flooring.
Read further if you cannot decide if Cork flooring is suitable for you.
Cork flooring has the following characteristics:

- Cork is a renewable resource. The bark of the Cork tree is peeled to make cork products. In a few years, the bark grows back and ready to be harvested again.

- Cork is a fairly good insulator that will not conduct heat like wood or tile flooring. It is not a good option for radiant heat.

- Cork feels great to walk on barefoot because it feels soft and it is never too hot or too cold.

- It is not hard surface, so it is great for children's rooms.

- It is a great choice for areas such as kitchens or laundry rooms, where you stand for long periods of time. However, any water spill should be cleaned up fairly quickly.

- Cork in its nature does not offgas. However be sure that the product you buy is treated with low or zero VOC finish.

- Cork flooring is available in floating panels that snap together and is ideal for a DYI application. There is an air space under the panels. Make sure that a felt underlayment is installed to prevent excessive noise when you walk.
available in many colors (Cork by DuraDesign)

- There are a wide array of finishes and looks available to fit your taste.

You can mix different colors to create a design of your choice.

- Cork flooring can be recycled.

- It is not an ideal product for a sunny area because it fades in bright light.

We love this product because of its wonderful qualities and availability in a variety of colorful finishes.

2 comments:

  1. How does it compare with bamboo cost wise? What can I expect to pay per sq ft, for a small job uninstalled? Thanks for posting this Naz!

    ReplyDelete
  2. this link should answer your questions: http://homerenovations.about.com/od/greenbuildingmaterials/a/BambooVsCorkFlooring.htm

    depending where you buy and what you buy, the cost will vary. You can call Beau Monde in Belmont and get a ballpark amount. 1343 Old County Road Belmont, CA 94002-3922
    (650) 654-7703
    http://www.beaumondefloors.com/visitus.aspx
    also ask about Amtico which is a sustainable flexible flooring that comes in many patterns (stone, wood, etc) it might be good for your application.

    ReplyDelete

Would love to see your thoughts…