The Consumer’s Guide to Cork Flooring
Having cork flooring installed in your home will prove to be a good investment in the years to come. An environment-friendly surface, choosing the material saves you cash and allows you to do your part in preserving the environment. Cork floors are low maintenance. They do not require lots of work to clean up. Plus, they make ideal floors for children and for busy parts of the home. There are various cork floor materials available at present to match your existing furnishings and décor.
With cork flooring, you can proudly say that you are actively protecting the environment. The material is harvested from the barks of hundred-year-old cork oak trees found across Europe, making cork a sustainable resource. This means that the material is obtained without harming the trees in any way. The barks used for making floors grow back every ten years after harvest.
Cork floors also help you save energy because they are natural insulators of temperature, as well as sound. They hold in heat so your electric bills do not skyrocket. Cork floors also feel warm during the winter. They also have anti-slip and anti-static properties, making them safe and comfortable to the feet. You will also be amazed to know that the material actually helps relieve back and leg pains because cork cushions well. Cork therefore makes ideal flooring for areas like the kitchen, where people stand up for a long time doing activities like cooking and baking.
Cork flooring is recommended for house owners who would very much prefer low maintenance floors. Regular sweeping and mopping should suffice in keeping your cork floors in shape. Use mild detergents every once in a while. There is no need for harsh chemicals. The material keeps away mildew and mold but prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colors to fade. This can be solved using treatments or strategic furniture placement.
Manufacturers offer cork flooring in tiles or planks. Colors vary from shades of brown to blues and greens. There are even patterned ones available for you to choose from. You will surely find something that will go perfectly well with your floor or cabinets.