Six Reasons to Consider Cork Flooring for Kitchens

You may remember the days when the biggest kitchen flooring decision was what color of linoleum to select. Those days are no more. Today's homeowners have a dizzying array of choices for kitchen flooring, including laminate, wood, ceramic tile, bamboo, vinyl, linoleum, brick, slate, and travertine. While all of these materials have advantages, here are 6 reasons to consider cork flooring for kitchens.

Easy on the Feet. Cork contains millions of air pockets. Because of this cellular structure, cork flooring has a unique cushioned, soft feel underfoot. As a result of this natural give, standing on cork flooring for long periods of time is easier on your feet and legs than nearly any other flooring. The kitchen is very likely the room in your home where you spend the most time on your feet, and, therefore, it is probably the first room in your home where you should consider installing cork flooring.

Comfort and Quiet. Cork flooring's comfort underfoot also is enhanced by the fact that is does not conduct heat or cold. As a result, it is uniquely warm and comfortable to the touch, even for bare feet. Also, cork tends to absorb sound, so it is quiet to walk on and dampens noise.

Give and Resilience. Cork flooring's give and resilience means that items dropped on it are less likely to break. While this can be an advantage in any room, it is a definite plus in the kitchen with its abundance of breakable dishes and glassware. You'll be glad you installed cork flooring in the kitchen the first time that you drop one of your favorite bowls or a piece of your best china and it survives the impact unscathed.

Water Resistant. Cork flooring is water resistant and, therefore, is a good choice for the kitchen where spills are inevitable (although, as with most flooring, spills always should be cleaned up immediately).

Beautiful. Cork is naturally beautiful. Today's cork flooring comes in a wide range of natural colors and stains. There is sure to be one that will complement your kitchen décor.

Eco Friendly. Given cork's green credentials, you'll feel good about your choice of cork flooring for the kitchen. Cork flooring is made from the bark of cork trees. The bark is shed by the trees naturally or, for commercial purposes, harvested every nine to ten years. Once harvested, cork bark grows back, so it is a naturally renewable resource.

Sources:

Tim Carter, www.askthebuilder.com, Cork Floors Are Captivating

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