The Benefits of Cork Flooring

The cork oak tree has a high concentration of the chemical called suberin, hence the latin name for the tree Quercus Suber. Suberin gives cork flooring some important properties that makes it a flooring that fulfills the criteria set out in LEED recommendations for green interior design.

Firstly, the high suberin content of cork flooring makes it mold resistant. This is important for people who suffer from allergic rhinitis as mold is one of the main triggers of allergic reaction. Also because of the fatty substance called suberin found in cork flooring it is impermeable, thus preventing dust mites from penetrating its structure. With no where for dust mites to live, indoor air quality is greatly improved providing better quality air and an allergen free environment.

Also the sealing properties of suberin means that cork flooring has fire retardant properties and does not give off toxic fumes in the event of a fire. And lastly suberin makes cork flooring a non-absorbing flooring - it does not fully absorb water or other liquids.

In terms of interior design, cork flooring has the advantage of being available in various styles and colors from the traditional mottled pattern of cork as is associated with wine bottle stoppers, to modern black shadings, to more swirling patterns like maple to vibrant colors. It is easy to dye cork tiles any color. You can either buy cork tiles already dyed to a color of your choice or you can easily dye them yourself. However, remember that you can only dye cork tiles if they haven't already been treated with a protective varnish such as polyurethane. It is also possible and advisable to use a water-based dye to color cork tiles.

Finally, one of the major benefits of cork flooring is the price. Cork flooring is a similar price to bamboo flooring - typically about $5 to $12 per square foot if professionally installed and between $2 and $10 (per sq ft) for do-it-yourself installation. Compare this with factory finished hardwood flooring which costs between $10 and $14 (per sq ft) with professional installation. And the advantage of cork flooring is that it is less prone to shrinking and swelling because of humidity and can be easily self-installed. Being able to do a self-installation is a big money saver and not having to worry about humidity levels is also a potential money saver.

To read more about maintaining a cork floor click here or read our blog about cork and cork flooring.

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