Cork is harvested from the cork oak (Quercus suber), generally at plantations planted for commercial purposes. The cork is found in the outer bark of the tree, which is cut away every seven to 10 years and used in a variety of purposes, from wine corks to poster boards. Manufacture of flooring material generally involves using the cork waste remaining after wine corks and other products are made. This leftover cork is pulverized, boiled, mixed with resins, and pressed into sheets for use in flooring products and sheet goods. Cork flooring, therefore, is a very “green” product since it is made of post-industrial waste material. There are many cork flooring products available, from glue-down tiles and rollout sheets to click-lock planks that “float” over the subfloor. The very popular plank form is a laminated product, featuring a base layer of compressed cork, a core layer of fiberboard, and a surface layer of top-quality cork. Here are nine examples of how cork flooring can be used in homes. Cork lends both visual warmth and literal warmth to a room, through its rich brownish-red color and its ability to insulate against thermal loss. This makes it a great choice for colder climates, where cork tiles are often used in the same way that ceramic tile is often used in warmer climates. In a commercial space like this one, or in a residential high-use area, it is critical to keep cork floors clean and well-sealed. While cork is not as impervious to moisture and stains as ceramic tile or vinyl flooring, cork can be a good choice for kitchens, provided a good sealant layer is maintained to repel water and stains. A mottled white wallpaper provides visual texture, while features such as the contrasting brown curtains act as a counterpoint to the rest of the palette. The use of rich warm tones from floor to ceiling gives the space an inviting and comforting ambiance. Cork flooring can be a logical choice in Mission or Craftsman style room designs, where the natural warm colors of a fully natural material fit perfectly. Large cork tiles in dark colors are a perfect choice for formal rooms, thanks to the simplicity of appearance that lets furnishings and decor show more prominently. The softness of cork underfoot makes it a great choice for kitchens, where you’ll spend a lot of time on your feet. But remember to keep the flooring well-sealed to prevent stains and damage from moisture.
