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With advances in manufacturing technologies escalating in the recent years, cork flooring has experienced resurgence in many homes and offices today. As one of the best renewable resources on earth, the barks of the cork oak trees are harvested and the trees are not felled. The bark continues to grow once every 10 years. Cork is then pressed flat with resin or similar binding agents after it is granulated and then baked into sheets which are used for installing floors. Cork floors can be used in heavy duty areas, kitchens, bathrooms and other rooms in the house. Care has to be taken when using them in moist and damp areas. Due to its honeycomb cellular properties, it is made up of millions of cells that are filled with air. This provides the cushioning effect that works as natural thermal insulation and is excellent for blocking out sounds from other rooms. The material is biodegradable and has the ability to bounce back so no impressions or dents are left on the surface. Flooring, using cork, comes in various hues and shades. The common tile form is normal standard 12” x 12” or 12” x 24”. The cork planks are standard 12” x 36”. The thickness essential for commercial buildings is a minimum of 5/16th thickness while for homes, it can be about 3/16” thickness. When installing cork floors, care has to be taken to ensure that the surface is dry and smooth. It is a good idea to use plywood or bricks for the underlay. Cork flooring can be installed onto concrete slabs after a vapor barrier is created to ensure that moisture does not leak from below. Use a compound made up of cement base to smooth the surface of the subfloor or underlayment. The nail holes in the plywood should also be covered with paper to make sure that the nails do not stick to the cork installation material. Cork floor tiles can also be used. A special adhesive has to be used and care taken to follow the directions of the manufacturer explicitly. This job is best handled by a professional carpenter. Cork tiles are finally covered with a sealant such as polyurethane. Make sure that the floor is always clean and remove any dirt and grit that may stick to it. If this is not done periodically, tiny particles on the floor may wear down the protective sealant and it will end up scarred. Use this type of flooring in kitchens, bedrooms, dining rooms or in the den. It is advisable to use cork tiles or other material as the material is made up of fiberboard and great aftercare is required to ensure that it does not attract moisture. Cork floating floors can be glued down or interlocked by using the floating floor application. The cork floating floors are a versatile option and not as expensive as tiles. Contact your nearest distributor or look for them online. They will provide you with all information required and also send you samples. Take advantage of this versatile flooring that is both affordable and long lasting. Resource Box Cork Flooring is an affordable option for homes and offices. iCork Floor is the distributor for quality cork floors that has been certified by North American and European quality control companies. No binders or adhesives use formaldehyde. Look for savings and discounts when you place your order with this company.
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