Cons Of Cork Flooring
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Cork is actually the ideal option in case you suffer from allergies and if you have an illness which demands your living setting to be very clean. These cells deliver a number of other benefits and we will mention them in a bit. This successfully makes this particular flooring type suitable for suites like the bathroom, kitchen and basement, together with the standard rooms for instance the family room, den or bedroom.
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If you'd love to find out more about this amazing flooring item we suggest you stick to the links below and get hold of more training on this eco-friendly green flooring solution. That is right, this is not like other flooring solutions that require chemicals and man-made components to reach certain specifications.
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Millions of tiny honeycomb air loaded cells in cork content allow it to absorb and cushion impact, shocks, etc. Why don't we dig a little deeper into the benefits of cork flooring. The cork oak tree is the sole tree which can provide commercial grade cork for manufacturing as well as production. Cork flooring isn't new, but you won't find it in way too many homes; at the very least not yet.
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Cons of Cork Flooring
When it comes to choosing the right flooring option for your home or office, cork flooring has gained popularity in recent years due to its eco-friendly nature and unique aesthetic appeal. However, like any other flooring material, cork also has its drawbacks that should be considered before making a final decision. In this article, we will explore the cons of cork flooring in detail, covering various aspects such as durability, maintenance, installation, and potential health concerns.
1. Durability and Longevity:
While cork flooring is known for its resilience and ability to spring back after being compressed, it is not as durable as some other flooring options. Although it can withstand daily wear and tear from foot traffic, heavy furniture or sharp objects can cause permanent damage to its surface. Additionally, cork is more susceptible to water damage compared to materials like ceramic tile or vinyl flooring. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to warping or swelling of the cork tiles, compromising their structural integrity.
FAQ: Can cork flooring be used in areas with high humidity?
Answer: While cork flooring can be used in spaces with moderate humidity levels, it is not recommended for areas with high humidity such as bathrooms or basements. Excessive moisture can cause the cork tiles to expand and contract, leading to potential damage.
2. Maintenance Requirements:
Although cork flooring is relatively low-maintenance compared to carpet or hardwood floors, it requires regular care and attention to ensure its longevity. One of the main concerns with cork flooring is its susceptibility to scratches and dents caused by sharp objects or heavy furniture. To prevent these issues, it is essential to use protective pads on furniture legs and avoid dragging heavy items across the floor.
Furthermore, cork flooring should be periodically sealed with a polyurethane finish to protect it from moisture and stains. This sealing process needs to be repeated every few years depending on the amount of foot traffic the floor receives. Failure to maintain the protective finish can lead to damage from spills, stains, or moisture infiltration.
FAQ: Can cork flooring be refinished if it gets scratched or damaged?
Answer: Unlike hardwood flooring, cork cannot be sanded and refinished to remove scratches or damage. However, some manufacturers offer cork tiles with a thicker wear layer that can withstand more wear and tear. If deep scratches or gouges occur, replacing the affected tiles may be necessary.
3. Installation Challenges:
While cork flooring can be installed as a floating floor system, which means the tiles are not glued or nailed down, it still presents certain installation challenges. First and foremost, proper subfloor preparation is crucial for a successful installation. The subfloor must be clean, dry, and level to ensure the tiles adhere properly and prevent future issues such as tile lifting or cracking.
Additionally, due to its natural tendency to expand and contract with changes in temperature and humidity, cork flooring requires an adequate expansion gap around the perimeter of the room. This gap needs to be filled with a flexible baseboard molding or quarter round to allow for movement without causing buckling or warping.
FAQ: Can cork flooring be installed over existing flooring?
Answer: In most cases, cork flooring can be installed over existing smooth and stable flooring materials such as vinyl or laminate. However, it is important to consult with a professional installer to assess the condition of the existing floor and ensure it is suitable for cork installation.
4. Potential Health Concerns:
Although cork flooring is often marketed as a hypoallergenic and environmentally friendly option, it can Still pose some health concerns. Cork flooring is made from the bark of the cork oak tree, which contains a natural substance called suberin. While suberin is typically non-toxic, there have been reports of some individuals experiencing allergic reactions or respiratory issues when exposed to cork dust during installation or removal.
To minimize these potential health risks, it is recommended to wear a mask and use proper ventilation when handling cork materials. It is also important to purchase cork flooring from reputable manufacturers that adhere to strict quality control standards and use low VOC (volatile organic compounds) adhesives and finishes.
Overall, while cork flooring offers many benefits such as durability, comfort, and sustainability, it is important to be aware of its limitations and maintenance requirements before making a decision. Consulting with a professional installer and doing thorough research can help ensure that cork flooring is the right choice for your specific needs and circumstances.