What is Cork & Why is it Unique

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What is Cork and Why is it so Unique?

Cork is an all-natural product, harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree. Perfect for green construction, cork oak is the only tree whose bark regenerates itself after harvest, leaving the tree unharmed. The bark is harvested every 9 years as mandated by governmental agencies resulting in an all-natural, environmentally responsible product with exceptional physical properties. Aside from the rich texture, numerous patterns, cork flooring is appreciated for its soft give under foot, resistance to dents, and its thermal & acoustical insulative qualities. 

Softness:

The first thing most people notice about cork is how soft it feels underfoot. Soft enough that your back, hips and knees feel better after standing on your feet for long periods of time but yet it doesn't feel spongy. Cork's cellular structure is made up of millions of tiny, sealed air-like pockets which provides many of the benefits of cork. This provides the soft feel underfoot.

Resiliency:

 Heavy pressure does not break down or destroy the tiny air cells that are unique to cork, pressure only compresses the air within the cells. The cork begins to spring back when the pressure is removed. This resiliency allows the cork to give under pressure while still maintaining its beauty and finish. In your home this means that if you make a dent in a cork floor, over a short period of time the dent will disappear unlike hardwood flooring which maintains a permanent dent. However if you need to move heavy equipment across the floor such as a piano or refrigerator, protect your floor your floor first before rolling across it. Sharp edges can make cuts in the floor during this move.

Resistance To Moisture And Liquid Penetration:

While natural cork is not completely impervious to moisture penetration, its cellular structure gives it a high resistance to penetration by water.  Cork tiles are coated with a premium water-based finish and are highly resistant to stains or water damage. So yes, you can install cork tiles in the kitchen or bathroom.

Thermal Insulation:

The minutely divided air spaces within cork make it one of the most efficient non-conductors of heat/cold. The unique cell construction of cork provides this property. Additionally, cork maintains a warm temperature in your home. Therefore a cork floor will always feel warmer to the touch than stone, ceramic, vinyl or even hardwood floors. Test have proven this.

Acoustical Insulation And Impact Noise Resistance:

Cork, with its 200 million air cells per cubic inch; of which 60% is air, essentially acts as an "air cushion", absorbing vibrations and direct impacts. This means cork is great for music rooms, recording studios, and entertainment rooms. You should consider cork for your floor, walls or ceiling if you have high ceilings and wide expanses of hard surfaces. Cork will help to muffle the sound or noise in these situations.

Anti-Allergenic:

Bugs, mold, mites and even termites are repelled by cork due to a naturally occurring waxy substance in cork called Suberin. So if you've removed all your carpeting and installed hard but cold surfaces in your home due to allergies, now you can consider warm, soft cork. Suberin also prevents cork from rotting even when completely submerged under water for long periods of time.