5 Advantages of Cork Flooring

When choosing the right floor for your home there are many considerations.  You want it to be durable, to be beautiful and to fit your budget.  You may also want it to be an environmentally sound decision, having the least impact on the environment.  Weigh all your options; cork flooring may be your flooring of choice.  Here are five advantages of cork flooring. 

#1.  Cork flooring is a renewable resource.  Instead of having to cut down a tree, cork is harvested from a tree without causing it any harm.  The harvesting process is actually pretty interesting; cork, made from the bark of oak trees, is only harvested from a tree once every ten years.  And it’s biodegradable, which means you don’t have to feel guilty when your flooring has reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced

Varnished cork bathroom tiles. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

#2.  Cork flooring is excellent for people with allergies and sensitivities.  Unlike carpet, which can collect pollen, pollutants and dust mites, cork is naturally hypoallergenic and mold-resistant. 

#3.  Cork also contains suberin, a natural insect repellent.  Why would you want your floor to repel insects?  Think termites…enough said, right?  What’s better than a floor that repels termites rather than attracting them? 

#4.  Cork flooring is extremely durable.  Not only does it resist the dents and scratches most wood floors easily incur, it’s also lightweight which means you can install it on any type of subfloor.  It is important to note that while cork is very durable, it isn’t kryptonite - you can gouge it.  Additionally, it is water resistant which means it won’t suffer water damage as easily as other types of floors.

#5.  Cork flooring is economical.  Basic cork tiles start around $4.00 per tile or plank and vary depending on stain choice and size of plank or tile.  And because it’s fairly easy to install, do-it-yourselfers can save a lot of money on installation.

Cork flooring has the ability to be customized to fit every lifestyle and décor choice.  It can be stained, and be installed as tiles or planks, which creates a variety of pattern options.  It’s durable, mold and mildew resistant and perhaps best of all, a renewable and sustainable product.  If you’re looking to replace the flooring in your home, consider cork.  It’s an economical and environmentally friendly option.