Nowadays, most people looking to build their dream home are intent on transitioning into eco-friendly options. One of the ways you can achieve this in your construction is by investing in cork flooring. Cork is a renewable material made from a cork oak tree’s bark. This is an evergreen tree that mostly grows in northern Africa and the Mediterranean region. The trees are specifically grown to harvest their bark in summer. This harvesting will not affect the tree, and the bark re-grows in nine to ten years.
For Notting Hill property owners, cork flooring is a quiet, resilient, non-slip and soft choice that can be used in all rooms. Cork contains a substance known as suberin. This is a natural pest repellent that will negate costly professional pest remediation to keep termites and vermin out of your floors. Cork is also mold and fire-resistant and will not produce fumes when burnt. These properties make it perfect for allergic individuals. You will often come across several alternatives for cork flooring. While they might seem confusing, here are the aspects that differentiate cork floors.
Colour
Cork has a natural pale tan shade. This makes it the best choice for interiors that want to generate a warm appearance. Cork is, however, also available in different brown shades, including hazelnut, sesame, cashew, and chocolate. If you are keen on a dark floor colour, you can settle for black cork flooring as well. Those looking for light colours can settle for white and gray floor shades. Even so, you need not choose one shade. You can have both light and dark tones in interesting patterns.
Texture
There are different cork flooring granules that all have varying texturized looks. If, for instance, you are intent on a textured look, opt for big granules for your floors. Property owners intent on smooth floors, on the other hand, should get small cork granules. If the large granules do not tickle your fancy, you can go for burled cork floors. These have more texture than large granules since they comprise different ground cork sizes mixed into one material.
Thickness
Most cork floors have thickness ratings of 6-13 millimeters. The ideal pick for your property will largely depend on the use of your rooms. If, for example, you are installing floors for an office, you can opt for thin cork floors, but for hallways, thick sheets are essential. Thick cork flooring is a bit expensive but is more durable and has better sound insulation compared to thin floors.
Formatting
Cork floors are available in tile and sheet formats. Tiles are easy to install for DIYers, but it is essential to stick to one product range with the same dimensions if you want a seamless and flawless look. The tiles can also be used to create corridor, herringbone and cobblestone patterns. Property owners who wish for a hardwood or laminate floor effect should settle for planks.
Basing your choice of cork floors on the above elements will guarantee you find one that suits your needs. After installation, uphold the highest levels of care to ensure the floors remain durable. Do not flood the floors or use abrasives when cleaning them and always wipe spills immediately.