Cork Flooring: Pros and Cons

Cork flooring is appearing in a growing number of American homes. If you are considering this contemporary, natural option for your home, consider cork flooring pros and cons first.

Pros of Cork Flooring

Easy on the Feet. Cork, which is 50% air, has a natural softness and warmth that makes it an ideal surface for those who are on their feet for long periods of time.

Good Insulator. Cork is a natural sound dampener. In addition, it doesn't conduct heat or cold.

Hypo-Allergenic. Cork flooring is an excellent choice for allergy sufferers, because it is easy to keep clean and free of pet dander and other allergens. In addition, it is water resistant and, therefore, resistant to mold and mildew and naturally resists termites and other insects.

Easy to Install. Cork flooring can be installed on top of another surface as a floating floor. It is available in tongue-and-groove interlocking panels or tiles that are relatively easy for an experienced do-it-yourselfer to install.

Ideal Undersurface. Cork can be an ideal undersurface or sub flooring for carpet or other flooring materials: it cuts easily, is light in weight, comes in different thicknesses, provides good sound and temperature insulation, and is easy to install.

Environmentally friendly. Cork is a sustainable resource. It comes from the bark of cork trees, which is shed naturally or harvested every nine years for commercial purposes.

Price. Cork flooring is priced comparably with many hardwood flooring options.

Great Looking. Cork flooring is available in many natural shades and stains. It has a natural beauty that is perfect for contemporary homes.

Easy Care. Cork flooring is easy to clean and maintain. It should be swept or dry mopped frequently.

Long Lasting and Durable. Frank Lloyd Wright, who died in 1959, incorporated cork flooring in some public and private buildings, some of which are still in use.

Cons of Cork Flooring

Susceptible to Weight Damage. The cushiony give of cork flooring that makes it easy on the feet also makes it susceptible to damage from heavy furniture. Therefore, coasters or pads should always be placed under furniture that is sitting on cork flooring.

Can Fade/Discolor. Cork flooring may fade or discolor if it is exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time.

Water Resistant, Not Water Proof. Cork flooring is water resistant, but it can be damaged by standing water or constant moisture. Therefore, spills should be wiped off its surface immediately and it should not be wet mopped.

Not Best High-Traffic Surface. Cork is not an ideal choice for high-traffic areas like entrance ways.

Green Choice, with Caveats. While cork is a renewable resource, most cork is imported from Southern Europe, especially Portugal. As a result, the manufacture and transportation of cork flooring uses energy, partly offsetting cork's green benefits.

Sources:

Karen Lawson, www.ehow.com, Pros and Cons of Cork Flooring/eHow.com

www.corkflooring.com, Cork Flooring Tips & Information - CorkFlooring.com

www.flooringandcarpets.com, Cork flooring - Cork floors

Mark J. Donovan, www.homeadditionplus.com, Cork Flooring Advantages/Cork Flooring Disadvantages