Over the past 10 years cork flooring has made a huge come-back and is one of the fastest growing segments of flooring materials available. The increasing use of cork is not surprising as consumers learn more about cork’s incomparable, unique properties and its positive impact to our environment.

In truth, cork has been used for flooring for 100s of years, but went by the way-side in the 1950s when other products, like linoleum and vinyl came into existence, so now it seems like a "new" discovery!

I’m sure you’re curious too about the possibilities of cork flooring and eager to know all about it.

So take a moment to read the following answers to some of the most common questions asked about cork flooring to discover why consumers are so taken with this truly remarkable flooring product.

Q: What are the unique properties of cork flooring?

A: Considering that it is actually the bark of a tree, thus a protective barrier that is naturally anti-fungal and repels insects, doesn't hold a static charge or dust (anti-allergenic), resists mold and mildew (anti-microbial) and is fire resistant. Cork’s micro-cellular structure is very resilient and will cushion blows, resist dents and absorb sounds. The composition of cork also works as an insulator and makes for a warmer floor underfoot while reducing sound and echo transmission, overall a healthier living environment.

Q: Is cork suitable for kitchens and/or bathrooms?

A: Absolutely! Cork is naturally resistant to fungus, mold, and moisture and warm underfoot so it makes an ideal floor for kitchens and bathrooms. All you need to do is apply a coat/sealer of water-based polyurethane to protect against staining and excessive liquid spills common to these areas. Don’t worry about things breaking if dropped on cork because they tend to bounce not break!

Q: How long will a cork floor last?

A: With proper care, cork floors will last over 50 years! It is not unusual for them to last much longer. The cork floors in the Library of Congress were installed in the 1800s and are still in use today! Cork floors are resilient, tough and easy to maintain, needing only routine sweeping and damp-mopping with water. For residential use, re-coating with water-based polyurethane every 5-7 years is standard maintenance.

Q: Where does cork come from?

A: Cork comes from the bark of the Cork Oak tree. Plantations, or forests, of these protected trees are found in Western Mediterranean countries, mostly Portugal and Spain. They are grown for the sole purpose of harvesting every 9-12 years from trees that are at least 25 years old. Removing the bark does not harm the tree; in fact it prolongs its life which ranges from 200 to 800 years!

Q: How does the use of cork affect our environment?

A: Unlike most other types of flooring materials, there are no trees destroyed, no mining, no harmful, polluting chemicals used and no waste in the production of cork flooring. Cork is a resource that is completely renewable/sustainable and the use of it has a positive impact to the environment.

Q: Can I install a cork floor myself?

A: Yes, and quite easily even if you are NOT the handy type! Cork floating floors are made to click and lock together, making for an easy, no mess installation. Cork tiles are glued down with an adhesive to hold them in place. The deciding factor: If the sub-floor is in poor condition, it is less costly and time-consuming to use a floating floor system as long as the sub-floor is reasonably level. Glue down tiles can be used over any clean, smooth, flat and dry sub-floor (wood or concrete) where cracks have been filled and it is free of wax or anything that would prevent a good bond.