Cork floor: types, pros and cons. Cork flooring: how to choose the best cork flooring, advantages and disadvantages Cork parquet pros and cons

The text discusses in detail such a type of material as cork flooring. From the article, you can find out what this type of finish is, what properties and characteristics it has, as well as evaluate the feasibility of using natural coatings in the interior by examining its advantages and disadvantages, consumer reviews, average prices and other factors.

Cork flooring is made from porous oak bark. The extraction of this material does not have a negative impact on nature. The place where the bark was cut continues to grow and renew, which allows this procedure to be performed every 9 years without jeopardizing the condition of the tree. For the production of flooring, raw materials from 25-year-old oaks are used. Younger trees are not suitable for this. The most valuable is the bark cut from 150-year-old oaks.

As the basis for the coating, a mixture consisting of pressed bark is used. As a result of a special treatment inside the furnace, the material is saturated with air. In this case, natural juice contained in micropores is used. It's called suberin. At the next stage, the material is given strength. For the so-called reinforcement, resins and wood dust are used, which are added in several layers.

The finish layer is made of cork or other materials such as veneer or PVC. The scope of the floors, as well as their service life, depends on the properties and characteristics of the top coating.

To protect the coating from wear, as well as to give it a certain design, manufacturers use veneer in combination with cladding with other materials:

• veneer - the thickness of the layer is only 0.5 mm. The coating is applied over the base to the adhesive composition;

• veneer varnished for cork flooring - the lacquer composition increases the life of the finish, which is ideal for living rooms, including bedrooms;
• veneer covered with a protective vinyl film - it prevents scratches and also prevents moisture from entering the material. Thanks to this, the manufacturer's warranty extends to 10 years;
• veneer made from precious woods and covered with a vinyl film - the material is a natural veneer made from expensive woods. For protection purposes, it is covered with a layer of vinyl.

Note! Thanks to modern technology, consumers can buy cork flooring in any design. The photo printing method allows you to apply a realistic imitation of grass, wood, sand, stone, etc. to the surface of the material.

Cork flooring: material advantages

Cork used as a floor covering has many useful properties. This finishing material is lightweight compared to other types of coatings. Cork is characterized by sound impermeability. The material does not transmit noise, so it is suitable even for recording studios. At the same time, the finish has a low level of thermal conductivity, so that the heat of the room does not go to the floor, but is stored inside.

The surface of the cork is elastic and soft. Orthopedic specialists recommend using this type of finish for people with diseases of the musculoskeletal system, as well as as a coating in children's rooms. Cork is safe and environmentally friendly. Its surface does not slip, does not absorb liquids and does not emit harmful substances. In addition, the material has antistatic properties. The cork does not need complex care and perfectly repels dust.

The coating is resistant to liquids and chemicals. The exception is caustic solutions of alkaline origin. Cork does not interfere with natural air circulation. Due to this, the material does not contribute to the growth of bacteria and the exacerbation of allergic reactions in the residents of the house. Cork is not subject to decay. She is not afraid of moisture. If the floors in the house get wet as a result of flooding, the coating will not deteriorate under the influence of the liquid, but provided that the surface has a protective treatment.

Cork is not afraid of temperature changes and is not subject to fading in the sun. Unlike laminate, this material can be laid on open loggias and balconies. This type of coating is very strong and durable. Due to its porous structure, the material reduces the level of friction, therefore, the aggressiveness of external influence factors is reduced.

Cons of cork floors

Like any other type of flooring, cork floors have both advantages and disadvantages. Due to its softness, the coating eventually sags under the weight of the furniture. Especially for bathrooms, manufacturers produce plates with a thickness of 1-1.2 cm. The size of such products is 14.8x14.8 cm. If the coating in the bathroom is thinner, there is a possibility that the bathtub will pierce it through.

Do not walk indoors in rubber-soled or high-heeled shoes, otherwise marks will remain on the surface of the coating. Also, do not lay mats made of latex or rubber on the floor. The trace of these products after a long stay is practically not removed.

Helpful advice! The pits left by chair legs and light furniture will even out on their own. For heavy furnishings, it is advisable to buy soft felt pads that will reduce pressure.

Significant disadvantages include the price of a cork floor. Moreover, the adhesive type of coating will cost much more than cork laminate. On the other hand, due to the simplified installation of interlocking plates, the costs of purchasing the material are partially compensated. As a result, the total cost of coating will be lower than that of natural parquet.

Another disadvantage of cork is flammability. The material itself is not combustible. The flammable component of the floor is its protective coatings, such as paint, varnish, glue. Natural coating has a low level of resistance to moisture. This disadvantage can be eliminated with varnish, sealant or wax impregnation.

Some flooring options (for example, adhesive-type floors) have a complex installation system. Only specialists can provide high-quality performance of such work. In addition, it is impossible to install the underfloor heating system under the cork floor. The material has a high degree of thermal insulation, so heat flows cannot enter the room.

Pros and cons of cork floors, photos, prices for various types of coverage

Manufacturers produce three types of cork that are used as flooring:

• solid veneer - the material consists of solid pieces of wood bark (this type of finish has a high price and is used to decorate ceiling and wall surfaces, as well as niches);
• glomerate - the material looks like sheets, consisting of crushed bark, joined together by gluing (this type of finish is practical and affordable);
• combined cork - consists of agglomerate and veneer, they are glued together under high pressure.

For the production of combined cork, veneer is used that is not suitable for the manufacture of plates. As a result, the finish acquires a decorative appearance and a beautiful texture. Combined cork goes well with other materials.

There are the following types of coatings:

1. Floating or castle floor.
2. Adhesive floor.
3. Technical traffic jam.

They have different properties and are characterized by a specific scope.

Features of cork tiles for interlocking floors

The floating floor consists of slabs interconnected by interlocking joints. The thickness of these panels varies between 10.5-12 mm. The size of the tile is 18.5x90 cm. The finish is laid in the same way as a conventional laminate.

For the manufacture of the base of these plates, crushed crumb is used. Wood or cork is used as a topcoat, which is covered with a layer of paint and a printed image. This type of finish is desirable to use in well-heated rooms, where there are no temperature differences. Sudden changes can adversely affect the condition of the interlocks.

Important! When buying plates, be sure to pay attention to the quality of the interlocks. The integrity of the coating and its durability depend on them.

It is not recommended to use cork floating floors in areas with high traffic, such as walk-through corridors or kitchens. The installation system of the coating is quite simple. If one of the fragments is damaged during operation, a whole row will have to be disassembled. The area from the wall to the place where the defective element is located is subject to dismantling.

Parameters affecting the choice. Properties of various materials. Features of the floor in different rooms. Additional floor modifications.

Cost of floating cork floors: price per meter of finish

Leading manufacturers and suppliers of cork flooring are Spain and Portugal, where porous oaks are widely distributed. Products from Asian countries are in lower demand, since the climatic conditions of this region do not allow growing high quality wood.

Average cost per 1 m² of Wicanders floating cork floors:

Features and specifications of adhesive cork floors

The adhesive floor consists of cork panels with an additional protective coating. The thickness of these elements is 4-6 mm. The material has a two-layer structure. At the bottom there is pressed cork chips, and the finishing layer on the panels is veneer. Elements can be either rectangular (60x30 and 45x15 cm) or square (40x40 and 30x30 cm). This type of coating is suitable for rooms with a high level of humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Before installation, you need to carefully prepare the surface. The base for the installation of the coating must be perfectly flat. Glue is used to fix the panels. In order for the result of laying the coating to be of high quality and durable, all elements must be carefully adjusted. Backlashes are not allowed.

With the help of this material on the floor, you can create decorative ornaments and patterns. When the installation is completed, the cork is coated with a polyurethane-based varnish in several layers. Be sure to process the gaps between the modular elements.

Helpful advice! If one of the fragments is damaged, do not dismantle the entire coating. It is enough to cut out the damaged bar and replace it with a new one.

Average cost of adhesive cork floors: price per m2

The main criterion for choosing flooring is the manufacturer. The following manufacturers are considered the most popular and best on the market:

• Wicanders;
• corkstyle;
• Allied Cork.

Average price of cork flooring Wicanders:

What is the purpose of installing a technical cork on the floor

Technical cork is made from the remnants of production. Therefore, it is not used as a floor finish. The main function of this material is to eliminate defects by filling (granules) or preparing the surface for laying the laminate. In the second case, the cork cloth is used as a substrate that levels the base.

Technical material is available in several forms:

1. Granules.
2. Rolls.
3. Plates.

In addition, technical material is used to create additional sound and thermal insulation.

Technical cork cost:

Which is better to buy a cork floor: glued or floating

Adhesive and lock floors differ from each other not only in their structure, but also in their properties.

The adhesive floor panel consists of the following components:

• bases from compressed agglomerate obtained by gluing;
• wood veneer as a decorative coating;
• a thin layer of lacquer or a protective vinyl coating that gives the panel a matte or glossy surface.

Advantages of adhesive coating:

1. It is not afraid of the influence of humidity and temperature changes, as well as contact with water.
2. Installation in rooms with a high level of humidity or lack of heating is allowed.
3. The material is easy to cut, which facilitates the installation system.
4. An extensive selection of design solutions (the coating can not only be tinted, but also create mosaic drawings on its basis).
5. There is no need to use thresholds in the areas of joints between the cork floor and the base covered with parquet or tiles.

Adhesive Disadvantages:

1. Installation requires careful preparation of the base. Any differences in the surface will be evident after laying the coating.
2. Requires the purchase of a varnish composition and glue.
3. High-quality installation of the coating can only be done by specialists.

Note! The price of castle floors made of cork is much higher than glued ones. However, the installation of the latter requires the participation of specialists and the purchase of additional materials, due to which the total cost of the coating increases significantly.

The lock plug consists of:

• pressed agglomerate;
• fiberboard HDF or MDF, complete with mounting spikes and grooves;
• protective layer of agglomerate;
• veneer finish;
• protective layer of vinyl film or lacquer coating.

Advantages of castle floors:

1. There is no need to cut the material. Installation does not require varnish and glue.
2. It is not necessary to carefully level the base. A height difference of 2 mm per 2 m of the surface is allowed.
3. A simple installation system allows you to lay the cork yourself without the help of specialists.
4. It is possible to dismantle and reuse the material in another room.

The lock plates are not afraid of high humidity, but on condition that this indicator, like the temperature, is constant. The coating can withstand contact with water for no more than 24 hours. After that, it is necessary to dismantle the floors and dry its elements.

Choosing cork floors: owner reviews, pros and cons

When choosing a finish for floors, you should pay attention to the quality of the cork agglomerate. Some manufacturers, in order to reduce production costs, add cheap impurities to this layer, such as shavings. As a result, the material is hard, while it wears out faster. For this reason, it is worth giving preference to clean products, even if it is a compressed cork and its cost will be high.

Adhesive floors have their drawbacks. Even products from quality manufacturers can have small defects. Most often there are errors in size, which is why the slats have different sizes. As a rule, they are small and are 1 mm in length or width. This indicator is considered normal, because due to the elasticity of the material, this disadvantage is compensated during installation: the panels are compressed and the joints are tight. Sometimes there are strips with different thicknesses. This defect brings much more problems.

Helpful advice! If there are strips with different thicknesses in the batch, the material will have to be re-sorted. It is better to lay thin elements in those places where the transition will not be so noticeable. Thick ones can be corrected by removing excess thickness along the edges with sandpaper.

Since cork is a natural material, often on the surface there are such defects as depressions, an ugly color transition, as well as manufacturing defects (peeling of the veneer or its partial absence). Before proceeding with the installation, you should carefully examine the material, glue the peeled off places, and place the defective strips where they will not be so noticeable. Castle floors in this regard are more profitable, because the protective coating hides all the flaws.

Considerable importance is given to consumer reviews when choosing a cork flooring for floors. The opinion of buyers who have already tried this type of finish can be informative and decisive.

Strengths and weaknesses of cork floors: customer reviews

Cork flooring is not as popular as other finishes that are already well known to buyers. Those consumers who nevertheless ventured to purchase this material share their feedback on the cork laminate on the forums.

“At first we considered laminate flooring, but found it too noisy and slippery. We have a dog in our apartment. I don't want to listen to the constant clatter of claws. Parquet turned out to be unaffordable for us. Therefore, we decided to take a closer look at the cork coating. The material, of course, cost more than laminate, but its high price was outweighed by numerous advantages. The coating turned out to be soft and quiet, and most importantly, warm. The cork was laid on the floor on their own, without calling the master to the house. I bribed the naturalness and environmental friendliness of this material. I don't regret my purchase at all and would recommend it to everyone. You won't find a more comfortable finish."

Svetlana Ezhova, Moscow

“I am ambivalent about cork floors. The material really has many useful properties. This is beauty, and naturalness, and the ability to keep warm. On the other hand, it cannot be called practical. Cork swells from water, so the seams between the plates may swell. I also cannot recommend this coating to those who have children in the house, because the surface of the cork is very sensitive to damage. The material requires careful handling. If you're willing to take proper care of it, cork won't disappoint."

Maria Korotaeva, St. Petersburg

What cork floors look like in the interior: photo

The use of this coating in the interior can be diverse. In the photo, cork floors look prestigious and original, especially in the living room, bedroom and office. It is allowed to use in the children's room, but subject to careful treatment. The coating can be made in natural colors (natural) or painted in any shade of the palette.

The most common natural colors:

• yellow;
• ocher;
• light brown;
• red-brown;
• mustard, etc.

Note! When choosing the color of the future coating, it is necessary to take into account the design and color of the furniture.

Can cork floors be used in the bathroom and kitchen

In any room where the microclimate involves a constant change in temperature, the cork will collapse and crumble. These rooms include not only the kitchen, but also the bathroom, which is also characterized by a high level of humidity. Temperature changes provoke the appearance of cracks in the coating. As a result, water begins to seep into the cork, causing the coating to peel off. It is also not recommended to use cork on the balcony and in the hallway.

Problem areas are usually hidden from view:

• under the bath;
• behind the plinth;
• under the sink;
• under the washing machine;
• for outdoor furniture.

It is in these zones that water vapor settles and condenses, destroying the coating. As an alternative, you can use a quality waterproof varnish to protect cork floors in the kitchen or bathroom. However, it does not prevent the appearance of mucous blisters. Under the influence of humidity, they appear under the top layer of the coating and spoil its appearance. In addition, the cork does not have antiseptic properties, so a microbiological environment can form under it.

Experts do not recommend using cork in the bathroom. With regard to the microclimate, the kitchen has more benign conditions, although even there the floor will be subjected to serious tests - constant pollution, spilled liquid (juices, coffee, tea), etc.

How to install cork floor tiles

Cork sensitively reacts to the level of moisture, shrinking and expanding depending on the conditions of the room. Therefore, before starting work, it is advisable to hold the packaging with the material for several days in the room where it will be laid. During this time, the humidity level stabilizes. As a substrate under the coating, you can use a technical roll cork. The optimal thickness of this material is 2-3 mm. 1.5 cm should be retreated from the wall. The technical cork is laid on a waterproof film over a concrete screed.

Installation of the first row starts from the wall, which is located opposite the front door, with a 5 mm indent. If the material needs to be cut, the cut is made on the side where the comb is located. The groove cannot be touched. To cut the cork, it is advisable to use a circular saw or an electric jigsaw. It is better to refuse a hand tool, otherwise the cork will crumble. The set of the second row is carried out with an offset of half a tile. To adjust the elements, use a wedge (cork) and a rubber mallet.

Important! Be sure to leave a gap of 1-2 cm from the wall. Like any natural material, cork undergoes deformation changes, so you need to leave a small space for expansion.

After that, the coating is treated with several layers of varnish. The composition can be matte or glossy. The joint area near the wall is masked with wooden skirting boards.

How to properly install cork adhesive floors

Before work, the material must be sorted, selecting thinner elements. Thick strips must be sanded with sandpaper. The coating is laid on the base in the form of a concrete screed. It is allowed to install the cork on the old linoleum, but on condition that its surface does not have blisters and damage. The main thing is that the surface is flat, smooth, free of dirt and debris. To level the base, you can use moisture-resistant plywood or fiberboard.

If there are small differences on the surface, it is advisable to apply a primer coat. It will not only eliminate minor irregularities, but also increase the adhesion of materials. The recommended level of humidity in the room is 65%, and the temperature is at least 18°C.

In this case, installation work should begin from the middle of the room. To simplify the process of laying the coating, it is desirable to apply markings to the surface of the base. This is for a cord. According to the instructions, the adhesive composition is prepared. It is applied to the surface of the boards with a roller. After that, the element is tightly pressed against the base, previously lubricated with glue. To apply the composition, you need to use a spatula with fine teeth.

Excess adhesive must be removed immediately. There are special substances intended for these purposes - solvents. You need to act very quickly. Prolonged contact of the solvent with the coating is not allowed. To more tightly press the tile to the floor, its surface must be rolled with a heavy roller (metal).

After all installation work is completed, the room must be ventilated. It takes at least 36 hours to dry the coating. Then the surface of the cork is thoroughly cleaned of debris and varnished in 3 layers. After 5-7 days, the floors can be exploited.

The advantages of cork as a finishing material are obvious. With proper care, the coating will retain its attractiveness for a long time. A wide range of colors and the possibility of applying prints allow you to create a unique design of the room. And subject to all the requirements of the technology, cork floors can be laid on their own and save a lot of money on this. Installation of the adhesive coating is more complicated in execution. But this type of flooring is perfectly combined with parquet and laminate.

And in this article we will consider all, all aspects, we will analyze cork floors into chips, identify the pros and cons, and also show you a photo of such a coating in the interior and announce an approximate price.

What is a cork floor and what kind of coating can it be compared with

Cork flooring can be compared to OSB, only thinner and more flexible. This coating is made of cork chips, and she is still a tree, albeit a rather unusual one.

It is impossible to compare it with laminate and linoleum.

But with wood, too, because wood is actually a natural coating, but a cork floor is just a pressed piece of wood, on glue. And the base of the cork floor is the same as that of the laminate.

Therefore, dreaming that he "breathes" is not worth it. And what's the difference, really? Before laying any coating, now cover the screed with two layers of primer. And even though the fabric of the bed, the floor will still no longer breathe. Yes, and he does not need to breathe, there are windows for this ...

What are the benefits of cork flooring in the kitchen?

So, where do we start our debriefing? Perhaps - with the advantages of this coating. We draw your attention to the fact that we will focus on how the cork floor "behaves" in the kitchen.

1st plus - Waterproof

Many mistakenly believe that the cork floor is terribly afraid of water, as it is porous. But, it's quite the opposite. Water is not particularly terrible for a cork floor, since the tree itself, from which the coating is made, absorbs only 20% of 100% spilled water. Remember the same wine corks: are they soaked through with liquid? And this despite the fact that they were in a humid environment for a very long time.

That is, if you pour a cup of hot tea on the cork floor, the puddle will remain on the surface for a very long time. It will not be absorbed anywhere, but rather simply disappear if it is not wiped.

Waterproofing the floor in the kitchen is a big advantage. For example, the same tree is afraid of moisture, which means that you can’t wash it too often, forget about spilled cups of tea, too. But tea is nothing compared to the flood from above...

The cork floor, in this regard, "behaves" just fine. Yes, it may swell for a moment, but a month passes, it completely dries up and regains its original shape. As you can see, these facts go against the popular belief that cork is best suited for dry rooms in an apartment.

2nd plus - Warmth and softness

Even a wooden floor is not as pleasant to walk on as a cork floor. In this regard, nothing can compare with him: he is like velvet, you can’t say otherwise. And, if you like to walk around the house barefoot - this is what you need.

In addition, it is warm to the touch. Even on cold days, cork flooring is warm, even warmer than wood. And this means that if you have small children who crawl on the floor, then the cork flooring for them is the best thing you can think of.

3rd plus - Noise-isolating properties

The cork floor perfectly muffles the sound. If you have a herd of restless children running around your house, then lay such a floor and the neighbors will be very happy. Yes, and you too. It is absolutely not audible in the house of trampling, roaring... Beauty.

But keep in mind that it dampens the shock noise. If you want to use the floor to protect yourself from the neighbor's screaming tape recorder from below, then leave this idea. Music is vibration and your cork floor will vibrate beautifully with the wall.

4th plus - Resistance to fungal attack

Managers who describe the benefits and wonders of cork flooring always mention fungus resistance. Perhaps this is actually an undeniable plus. But in our memory, there is not a single floor covering that suffered from fungus.

Perhaps you know of such cases? Write in the comments, we are interested in your opinion ...

And, in general, how much water should be poured in order for a fungus to form on the floor? And, if it is already formed (for example, from micro-leaks in pipes), then it will hit not the floor covering, but the entire screed! Both concrete and plaster...

You understand that in this case, the cork floor will not save you. So what if it stays? Tearing it off and re-laying it is almost impossible, contrary to the assurances of the sellers. They say that it can be rebuilt five times, nothing will happen to the locks. It will even become, it has been checked more than once.

5th plus - Saving dishes

If you often drop cups on the floor, buy a cork floor! This is the absolute truth, dishes practically do not break on it. And given the current prices for plates and other glass utensils, this is a big plus and savings in the future.

Of course, the thinnest glass goblet will burst. But an ordinary plate and a cup will survive.

6th plus - Low static

They say that dust practically does not stick to the cork floor. And it is true. It is non-static, therefore, there is almost no dust on it. Is it a plus? We don't know. After all, if there is no dust on the floor, then it is on other interior items. And, frankly, it is much easier to wipe the dust off the floor with a light movement of the mop than to wipe it off the lighting fixtures, decorative elements...

And you can’t see dust on the cork floor, it’s motley! But, we could not help adding this item to the pros. If managers say plus, it means plus.

7th plus - Dust and crumbs are almost invisible on it

This is the continuation of the previous paragraph. Cork flooring is a lazybones dream. If the same laminate instantly betrays your laziness, then the cork one does not.

Crumbs and other small debris are not visible on it. Also, it is much easier to wash than other coatings: there are no streaks on it, which means that you don’t have to spend money on Mr. Proper and wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth (like glossy ceramic tiles, for example, or laminate).

8th plus - It does not slip

This point is rather controversial. Cork stopper strife. Or rather, cork flooring. Some floors are non-slip, and some are very slippery, because they are exposed with three layers of slippery varnish. That is why the reviews on the Internet are different.

By the way, about non-slip. This medal has a reverse side. If the floor really does not slip at all, then this is fraught with worn socks, torn nylon tights and burns on the knees of children when they slow down on it with a run ... Children are like that, yes. They manage to bleed their elbows even on carpet, not like on cork.

And what are the disadvantages of a cork floor in the kitchen?

And now let's move on to the most important point - the cons. If they are not taken into account, it will be very annoying ...

1st minus - Doubtful appearance

Yes, the cork floor does not look very good, to put it mildly. Although, maybe you have a different taste and you do not agree with us. But we still believe that this floor looks extremely poor and gray.

There is absolutely no beauty in it. There is no special naturalness and aura in it either.

Although, things are much better with the design of cork floors now than some five years ago. You can find colors "under the tree", and something else more interesting than "no" cork crumb.

2nd minus - Price

Cork flooring costs twice as much as laminate flooring. Perhaps this is not a minus, of course. After all, cork is better than laminate and, therefore, it is quite fair that it is more expensive.

But on the other hand, cork is quite a bit cheaper than a good deck board, which is just better than cork. Therefore, think about whether the game is worth the candle.

3rd minus - The need to perfectly level the base of the floor

If there are drops on the floor, your cork floors will come to an end very soon. They will be sold, torn and crumbled. The screed should be not just perfect, but super-ideal.

You yourself are unlikely to build such a thing and you will need to hire craftsmen. On the other hand, there is no big difference in price between the quality of screeds, and the ideal one is needed not only for cork, but also for linoleum, laminate ...

4th minus - Burnout

This is a significant minus. If your kitchen is on the sunny side, then the cork floor will burn out very quickly. And the difference between the window area and the rest of the room will be simply colossal.

Making sure that direct sunlight does not enter the room is an unnecessary fuss that you will soon forget about. And as soon as you forget, the floor will slowly and surely burn out.

5th minus - Difficulty in care

The cork floor is porous, which means that it will not be so easy to wash it from something colored. For example, if you spilled cherry juice, then you have to kneel down and carefully rub the stain, while, on ceramic tiles, you can run a mop and voila ...

Also, over time, these micro-slots become clogged with dirt. And the cork floor, periodically, must be thoroughly washed with a brush, hands, otherwise it will look stale and gray.

6th minus - Vulnerability to punching and scratches

This aspect is also controversial and it all depends on the quality of the floor. Some floors are not afraid of punching and do not leave dents on them even from heavy furniture. And other floors are more delicate (read - cheap) and you will have to put pads on the legs of the table and chairs.

Of course, there can be no question of any walking in heels in the kitchen. But on the other hand, there is nothing to spank in shoes around the house. Learn to take off your shoes in the hallway.

7 minus - the inability to wash the paint

Some interesting things happen with the paint that got on the cork floor. We, for example, cannot explain this miracle, but it exists.

If hair dye gets on the cork floor, then it is not immediately wiped off with anything.

Well, just nothing, it is absorbed tightly. But a month, two, three passes, and the stain begins to gradually disappear and, as a result, it simply neutralizes. But on the other hand, for two or three months you admire a dark spot that cannot be removed.

Also, you will not be able to wash drops of brilliant green, iodine, paint for Easter eggs, inscriptions with a marker ...

8th minus - Inability to get rid of greasy stains

But the fat cork floor does not self-destruct, unlike paint. If the fat is not wiped off often, it will be absorbed, and you will never get rid of it.

Of course, you can sand the cork and open it with a new varnish. But this is dreary and long, and the veneer that covers the floor is quite thin and such manipulations have a limit.

About the environmental friendliness of the cork floor

Many people opt for cork flooring because of this benefit. It seems that it is so environmentally friendly and safe that it's just a nightmare. But in reality, this is nonsense.

Cork flooring is no better than laminate or linoleum. But a poor-quality cork floor is even worse, since the glue with which it is pressed can release harmful substances into the air for a very long time.

Then, the cork floor is necessarily varnished. Is varnish environmentally friendly? And what does the cork have to do with it, if you don’t come into contact with it in any way? You breathe in the fumes of varnish and glue.

Furthermore, cork floor base- or the same vinyl or PVC. Cork layer - 2-6 mm (which is very rare, usually 2-3).

Judge for yourselves, why are there so many forests in the Mediterranean to provide the whole world with floors made of pure cork? This is just unreal. On the veneer are millimeters of this coating, millimeters. And the rest is the most ordinary materials.

Therefore, if your goal is environmental friendliness and complete hypoallergenicity, then laminate is better. It certainly doesn't vaporize anything.

It is also worth mentioning here cushioning properties about which sellers sing. It seems like walking on a cork floor is so good for the spine, as you walk almost on rubber, cushioning, cushioning ... This is not true.

Cork flooring is as hard as laminate flooring.

And it doesn't matter which manufacturer produces this product: there is no cork floor from one cork.

Is it possible to lay a cork floor on a "warm" floor

There is a rumor on the net that there is no reason to put electric heating under the cork floor, since the cork simply will not let it through. This is nonsense.

Try putting a piece of cork floor on the battery and you will understand everything. It conducts heat very well. Another question is that there is not much point in heating it, since it is quite warm in itself. Unless, if you removed the batteries and decided to install underfloor heating instead, then you can do so.

What kind of cork floor is best for the kitchen?

Cork flooring is of two types:

• Rolled (adhesive), which is spread out like linoleum and glued directly onto the screed;
• Tiled (castle), which is laid like a laminate on locks.

For the kitchen, it is better to take the first option, since it is without gaps.

The cracks swell with moisture over time, get clogged with debris ... This is not very practical for such a room, as you understand. In general, there are more types of cork flooring, but now it makes no sense to disassemble them, we are talking about design there.

Differences cork flooring from other popular flooring

Our review would be incomplete without a comparison with other types of flooring. It is in this way that it is easiest to understand whether there is a reason to buy a cork floor. Let's go.

Which is better: cork or ceramic tiles

Durability: Ceramic tiles last a long time if you do not drop a cast-iron goose on it ... But you can drop anything on a cork, even knives. No scratches are particularly visible and holes from punctures with something thin - too.

As for which coating wears out faster - cork, of course. But on it the protective varnish is erased, which can simply be updated. But the cork tends to crumble from impacts and from punching.

In a word, nothing concrete can be said. If you don't start dropping the caterpillars, tiles are more reliable. And even more reliable - roll up the kitchen with asphalt, this will definitely be for centuries.

Ease of maintenance: it is much easier to take care of tiles, this is not even discussed.

Simplicity of flooring: under the "cork" you need to perfectly equalize the base. But the tile - you need to perfectly water it. If you leave air gaps in the adhesive or if you lay the tile unevenly, it will begin to lag and crack where the “play” has formed. Both leveling and laying are expensive. Therefore, here the score is 1:1.

Warmth: Well, here you understand everything yourself. Of course - a cork.

Which is better: cork floor or linoleum

Durability: cork is much more durable in operation, whatever one may say. Although, if you take linoleum for industrial purposes, then it will outlive you. But the colors of such linoleum are creepy, therefore, we are talking about a household version. And it is soft, torn, worn out, and after 10 years it looks like the devil.

Cork floors after ten years can be opened with fresh varnish and they will still serve. Due to the fact that they are so pockmarked, damage is not particularly visible on them.

Ease of maintenance: Linoleum is easier to care for as it is completely smooth. And the cork is porous and it is necessary to thoroughly wash out the dirt that clogs into microcracks.

Simplicity of flooring: Both coatings require a level surface. If linoleum is spread on an uneven floor, it will quickly wear off and look disgusting. Under the linoleum, every crumb and hole is visible.

Warmth: Both coatings are warm, but walking on the last one is 10 times more pleasant. Linoleum is like oilcloth to the touch, and cork is like wood.

Which is better: cork flooring or laminate

Durability: Laminate and cork last about the same. But the laminate tends to swell at the joints, which is why its appearance deteriorates. Cork, especially glue, looks much better.

Ease of maintenance: Laminate is easier to clean, as there are no pores on it, into which dirt clogs. But it has to be wiped dry after washing, as stains are too visible.

Simplicity of flooring: both are easy to lay. The main thing is to prepare the surface well, and laying is already the tenth thing.

Warmth: Both of these finishes are warm, but laminate is not as pleasant to the touch. In addition, he is very noisy.

Which is better: wood flooring or cork?

Durability: wood is much more durable, especially if it is not about parquet, but about deck boards. Yes, and it is easier to restore a wooden floor than a cork veneered one.

Ease of maintenance: it is easier to care for a tree, despite the fact that it needs to be periodically rubbed with mastic.

Simplicity of flooring: under the tree you do not need to equalize the floor and this is a plus. But it needs to be perfectly evenly laid on the logs, and this is a minus: professionals are needed here.

Warmth: These are equally warm coatings. But judging by the reviews of the owners, the feeling of the cork floor is warmer.

Conclusion: We told you everything and even more about cork floors, their pros and cons, showed a photo and indicated an approximate price for 1 square meter. Now think for yourself, decide for yourself what is better to choose when you make repairs.

Cork has been used as a floor covering relatively recently, so many questions arise regarding the nuances of laying this material, its advantages and disadvantages. The rather high price of new items is another reason that most people planning renovations prefer traditional, well-known floor coverings. So is it worth making cork floors, and what pleasant and unpleasant surprises can await those who have made a choice in favor of this material?

Cork oak bark has long been used in winemaking for corking bottles, as well as in the production of shoes, fishing tackle, medicine, and the automotive industry. Recently, the scope of this material has expanded, cork is used as a substrate for flooring and finishing, as well as facing material for walls and ceilings.

The bark has a porous structure, which is due to its light weight and firmness, elasticity. Its pores are airtight, so that, unlike most materials with a porous structure, cork does not absorb moisture and is not a favorable environment for the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms. The air-filled pores cause a low coefficient of thermal conductivity of the cork, 0.03-0.04, which is slightly higher than that of air. The sound absorption coefficient of 0.85 makes cork an ideal material for rooms with high demands on sound insulation.

Advantages of cork

Cork flooring is an elite coating that has many advantages:

• environmental friendliness. The coating itself is natural, safe for health, and its production does not harm nature. The technology of harvesting the bark does not require cutting down trees, and the life expectancy of cork oaks reaches 200 years
• Maximum safety for health is due to a number of other factors - cork does not accumulate static charge and does not attract dust, which makes it an ideal material for people suffering from allergies. It is not affected by mold, fungus, does not promote the growth of microorganisms, does not attract insects and rodents, does not emit toxic substances when heated
• excellent indicators of heat and sound insulation;
• elasticity, which determines resistance to compressive deformation;
• comfort of operation, orthopedic properties associated with the same elasticity. It is very pleasant and useful to walk barefoot on the soft, springy cork floor. Due to the shock-absorbing abilities of the cork, the load on the musculoskeletal system is reduced. In addition, the floor is also warm to the touch, like natural wood, and due to the high coefficient of friction it is not at all slippery, safety;
• durability, abrasion resistance. The warranty period of high-quality cork floors is 10 years, and the actual one is much longer;
• attractive appearance, rich colors, variety of patterns

Sometimes the advantages of a cork floor include ease of installation, but this applies mainly to lock-type coatings, the so-called cork laminate. The technology of laying the adhesive coating is quite complicated.

Cons of cork

Of course, cork has its drawbacks, and the main one is the high price. It takes 10 years to grow a layer of bark sufficient for industrial purposes, which explains the high cost of the material. Budget floor coverings (Asian origin or technical, made on the basis of agglomerate) are inferior in quality to more expensive ones. We will discuss the types of cork coating, their pros, cons and application features below.
Other disadvantages of cork:

• insufficient tensile strength and resistance to point impacts. The cork floor should be protected from stiletto heels, furniture legs that are not covered with protective pads, falling sharp objects
• relative whimsicality for operation and maintenance. The cork floor can be washed with a damp cloth with the addition of neutral or slightly aggressive products, but the use of caustic alkali, abrasive compounds is unacceptable. Floors should be regularly cleaned of debris - small debris and grains of sand can be pressed into the surface. It is almost impossible to remove the marks left by the soles of rubber shoes from the surface of the cork.
• usually a protective coating is applied on top of the cork floor, and problems can arise here. If the coefficient of friction increases as a result, the floors become excessively rough, it is unpleasant to walk barefoot on them, and shoes and socks wear out quickly. If the coefficient of friction decreases, floors can become slippery, which is dangerous.

Claims that cork is afraid of water are greatly exaggerated. As already mentioned, its pores are sealed and do not communicate with each other. Even if some of the pores are opened during processing, moisture will not penetrate beyond the outer layer, and treatment with a protective compound ensures complete water tightness. In the bathroom, a cork floor is not recommended, not because the cork itself will begin to rot, but because moisture can seep under it through small cracks at the joints, but will not evaporate - the material is not hygroscopic.

What are cork floors

Not everyone knows that the quality of the cork is significantly affected by the region where the cork oak grows. Its homeland is the Mediterranean countries with a warm, humid climate.

• Cork from Portugal is traditionally considered the best. It is here that the largest plantations of cork trees are located and well-known concerns for the processing of raw materials work. Not inferior in quality to Spanish cork
• cork oaks grow not only in Europe, on the western coast of the Mediterranean, but also on its North African coast, this is also a fairly high-quality product
• Recently, plantations have appeared in China, but the climate here is not ideal for cork oak, which affects the quality of the cork

Important: Chinese-made cork floors are much more affordable than classic European ones and have an attractive texture. But the cork itself is looser, and bulk glue additives to increase density deprive the material of elasticity, which is one of its main advantages.

In addition to the origin of raw materials, the technology of its processing and the form of "semi-finished products" are important, from which the flooring is subsequently made:

• the most expensive type of cork coating is veneer, it is a solid sheet material, it is practically not used in its pure form
• agglomerate - the most budgetary variety, made from production waste - cork chips - by pressing at high temperature
• combined option - a layer of veneer and a layer of pressed agglomerate, connected in the factory

The following types of building and finishing materials are produced from them:

• agglomerate-based technical coating is produced in the form of rolls, slabs or granules, can be used as a substrate, dry screed
• castle (floating) is an analogue of laminate, consists of a combined cork and MDF, has the form of boards with dimensions of 90x18.5 cm
• adhesive, produced in the form of rectangular or square slabs of various sizes, is a combination of agglomerate and veneer

Technical cork is an auxiliary material that cannot serve as a finishing coating, but lock and adhesive coatings are designed specifically for this purpose. Cork laminate (parquet) has a thickness of up to 12 mm and a multilayer structure:

• base made of MDF (HDF), in which locks are made to connect the boards to each other
• pressed agglomerate layer
• a layer of veneer, and in more budget options it may not be cork, but made from different types of wood. In elite coatings there is a decorative layer of pressed leather
• protective coating (vinyl, acrylic, polyurethane), often applied in several layers

Glue cork is thinner, its total thickness is 4-6 mm, the layer of pressed cork is covered with a thin layer of cork veneer on top. Sometimes the veneer is simply sanded, sometimes it is immediately covered with various protective compounds:

• pre-varnishing (1 layer of varnish, on top of which several more can be applied, but after laying)
• polyurethane varnish
• keramolac
• vinyl film

Important: when choosing a cork coating, you need to pay attention to the composition of the protective layer. Keramolac is good for rooms with high traffic and floor load, but it makes the material more rigid, unpleasant to the touch, so other options are preferable for a bedroom, a nursery.

Pros and cons of different types of cork flooring

Both types of cork flooring finishes have strengths and weaknesses.
castle floor:

• more expensive than glue
• easier to lay, less whimsical to prepare the base, can be dismantled
• requires the use of an underlay (some manufacturers produce laminate with an integrated underlay)
• not suitable for wet rooms due to the hygroscopicity of the wood base
• due to the heterogeneous structure, it is subject to deformation over time, the appearance of cracks at the joints (cork and MDF have a different coefficient of linear expansion)

Adhesive:

• somewhat cheaper, but requires the use of expensive high-quality water-soluble glue, you can’t save on this
• requires skill from the stacker, do-it-yourself stacking is problematic
• elastic, easy to cut, ideal for rooms of complex geometry, curved surfaces
• extremely whimsical in preparing the base, uncleaned grains of sand and small pebbles will make the owner feel like a princess on a pea
• forms a monolithic coating, resistant to moisture and not subject to temperature deformations
• completely natural material
• some collections are designed for artistic styling, creating panels, mosaic floors, but this is already aerobatics, and such work is highly valued

Outcome

Cork floors have many advantages, and the main disadvantage is the high cost. When choosing a material, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the room where it will be laid, pay special attention to the protective layer. And remember that the elite coating requires delicate handling.

Cork flooring is an environmentally friendly and practical floor covering made from natural wood, cork oak bark. Learn more about the production, types, advantages and disadvantages of cork flooring to make the right choice!

Choose glue and lock plugs, with natural veneer or photo printing in the Cork-24 specialized online store. Specialists work for you who will select the best option for flooring, give all the necessary advice, arrange delivery in Moscow or Russia.

✔ Select a cork floor from the Cork-24 catalogue.

Production features

Cork flooring is made by pressing the bark of a cork oak. These amazing trees, living up to 200-230 years old, grow in only 7 Mediterranean countries, more than 50% in Portugal. Such a narrow distribution is due to the special climatic conditions necessary for the full growth of oak.

To obtain a high-quality cork, the bark of the third cut is taken - from trees about 40 years old. They remove the bark in the summer: experienced workers use special tools and techniques that do not damage the tree. It takes about 10 years to restore - with proper care of the oak.

The removed cork dries on the plantations for six months, after which it is transported to the plant, where it is dried in special chambers for another 6 months. The dried material is sent to production lines for the production of various types of cork flooring.

Pros and cons of cork flooring

The main advantages of cork flooring:

1. environmentally friendly material. Cork - oak bark; plasticizers are not used in the manufacture, water-based varnishes are used to create a protective layer.
2. thermal insulation. Cork floor tiles are a natural material with a low thermal conductivity. Additional insulation is unnecessary - the veneer itself is an ideal heat insulator!
3. moisture resistance. Adhesive the cork does not absorb moisture, the appearance of mold, the development of microorganisms or fungi is excluded. Flooring is recommended for wet areas: bathroom, toilet, kitchen, balcony, loggia.
4. Strength. Coatings are sufficiently wear-resistant and durable to withstand moderate mechanical damage, such as a heavy object being dropped.
5. Elasticity. Cork tile has a very elastic structure, quickly recovers after point deformation. The elastic surface reduces the load on the joints and spine.
6. Soundproofing. The floor cork has exceptional soundproofing characteristics, provides noise reduction, creates a comfortable and cozy atmosphere in the house.
7. Easy Care. The cork board on the floor is unpretentious in operation: do not use abrasive compounds and solvents; detergents and polishes that create a protective film on the surface are recommended.

Among the shortcomings, a rather high price of a cork floor is distinguished, as well as low efficiency in combination with underfloor heating systems - due to the natural insulating properties of the bark. In addition, a cork parquet board is afraid of point dents and cuts. When installing furniture, it is recommended to make substrates under the legs.

Types of natural cork flooring

Interlocking floors

Cork laminate has a simple laying technology: glueless locking joints are used. Multi-layered structure with MDF or HDF board and factory applied top protective lacquer.

Advantages of floating cork flooring:

• operational installation;
• use immediately after installation;
• the possibility of dismantling;
• no additional installation costs;
• no need for a perfectly level subfloor.

The cost of castle cork floors is slightly higher than adhesive. In addition, the coatings are less moisture resistant: it is recommended to use in dry rooms without temperature fluctuations. For living rooms - a living room, a bedroom, a nursery, as well as for offices with medium traffic, a floating cork floor is ideal. For you, we have collected a great selection of lock plugs from the best manufacturers!

Glue stopper

The classic cork is glued to the floor with contact glue, and after drying, it is covered with several layers of varnish. The method of mounting the adhesive plug requires professional skills and experience.

Pros of corks for glue:

• moisture resistance;
• the material is combined with other coatings;
• laying without sills;
• the scope is unlimited;
• cut allowed.

Adhesive parquet is used for wet rooms, and is also indispensable for country houses, office and commercial facilities with moderate traffic. In the catalog of our company you will find a huge range of high-quality cork parquet at competitive prices!

Substrate

Technical cork is used as a heat and sound insulating substrate for laminate, parquet board and other floor coverings. As a rule, it is made of cork agglomerate and is produced in rolls.

Design solutions

The coating has a special texture, characteristic only for the structure of the bark of an evergreen oak. Additionally, there is the possibility of applying a chamfer - from 2 or 4 sides.

However, manufacturers from Switzerland and Portugal went even further: cork with photo printing appeared on the building materials market. Thanks to the use of modern digital printing, high image resolution and color reproduction are achieved. We offer exclusive cork floors with wood or tile photo printing from Corkstyle, Corksribas, Granorte Vita, Egger, Wicanders!

✔ In our salon you can also order professional installation of cork flooring in Moscow and the Moscow region.

A variety of photos in manufacturers' catalogs and the Internet show that cork flooring is quite attractive in appearance, it can look different, satisfying a variety of tastes.

What are the pros and cons of cork flooring? What do user reviews say? What types of cork floors are there?

How is the installation? This article is an attempt to answer the most common questions about cork flooring and help you make the right choice.

The main features of the cork floor

The cork oak grows well in the northwest of Europe and in the northern part of the African continent.

This is an evergreen plant that can grow to a height of 20 meters and reach a meter thick trunk. The plant blooms in May, and its fruits, like those of Russian oaks, are acorns.

The tree lives for about 250 years, and during this period, starting from the fourth decade, its bark can be removed every 9 to 12 years.

Cork is made from the bark of a plant. The largest cork oak plantations are in Portugal.

Approximately 360,000 tons of bark are harvested worldwide every year. In the 1930s, a project was launched in the USSR to plant cork oak groves in order to refuse to import expensive imported cork into the country, but for some reason the cork industry did not gain much weight in a country that once occupied 1/6 of the land.

Most of the bark of the cork tree is used to make wine corks. The wine industry has never been able to find a substance capable of preserving bottled wine as well.

Cork corks affect the cost of wine, so they are used only for expensive brands. Cheaper wines use other types of corks.

Floor coverings are second in terms of revenue from southern oak bark products.

For the manufacture of floor coverings, the bark is crushed and heated in special ovens. After that, the raw material is pressed under high pressure, and a semi-finished product is obtained - suberin. It is a mixture of cork and air particles.

To obtain finished floor coverings, a strong layer of wood dust and resins is applied to the suberin, on which another layer of suberin is superimposed.

The front surface can be cork or other types of coatings can be applied to it, for example, PVC or veneer.

The cork floor perfectly isolates noise (extinguishes the sounds of steps, hitting the floor), avoids heat loss.

Cork floors are credited with cushioning properties - such a floor is quite soft, which reduces the load on the joints and spine. At the same time, which is confirmed by reviews on the forums, there are no dents left on the floor from furniture.

Other reviews indicate that stiletto heels can dent a cork floor.

Perhaps it depends not so much on the material as on the quality of the coating, however, in any case, in the corridor near the door, installation of tiles may be more appropriate.

Almost all the reviews on the forums dedicated to cork floors note the amazing comfort of the cork floor, which is pleasant and not chilly for bare feet.

But, like any other gender, cork has its drawbacks.

Adhesive and interlocking cork floors

There are two main types of cork floors - adhesive and castle. They are distinguished by installation and appearance, each of them has its pros and cons.

Castle floors are plates of various shapes, mostly square or rectangular.

The locking system allows them to be laid like a mosaic without the use of glue - just like installing a laminate or parquet board.

The core of each plate consists of rigid MDF, which is covered on the inside with a 1.2 mm layer of cork compensating substrate, and on top with a 2.5 - 3 mm layer of cork face covering, decorated with cork veneer or photo printing.

Adhesive cork flooring is so called because of the need to lay it on the glue. Such a floor must be additionally opened with varnish.

The adhesive coating is classified as professional, since its installation is much more difficult than laying castle cork floors, which anyone, even a person far from repairs, can handle.

Advantages of cork flooring:

• the plates are ready for use immediately after laying, installation does not require glue or varnish;
• can be laid on an imperfect floor - a base height difference of 2 mm is allowed for every two meters of surface;
• installation of the floor can be done independently, without involving specialists;
• it is possible to dismantle and lay the plates in another room.

Disadvantages of the castle floor:

• can only be used in rooms with a constant temperature and humidity;
• reviews show that if liquid enters the joints, the floor may swell. The plates withstand contact with liquid for no more than a day. During this time, it is necessary to notice the "leak", disassemble and dry the plates.

Advantages of adhesive coating:

• not afraid of contact with water, temperature changes or air humidity;
• can be used in unheated buildings or rooms with high humidity;
• the ability to cut the material facilitates installation;
• the coating can be tinted, creating floors that look like mosaics, which opens up scope for designer imagination;
• no need to install thresholds at the joints with sections of the floor covered with tiles or parquet.

Adhesive floor cons:

• the base under the floor must be ideal, since even the smallest level differences will be noticeable on the finished floor;
• you need to purchase glue and varnish;
• only qualified specialists can guarantee high-quality installation.

The cost of the castle floor is higher than that of the adhesive floor, however, taking into account the purchase of additional materials for installation and the cost of work, the adhesive floor will ultimately cost no less, and maybe even more expensive than the castle floor.

Castle floors are suitable for bedrooms and living rooms in residential areas for permanent residence.

Theoretically, children's rooms are included in this list, but children tend to spill liquids, so the choice of coverage should be approached carefully.

It is better to choose an adhesive coating for kitchens, bedrooms, country houses in which the owners do not permanently reside, for office space.

More about cork flooring

Cork coating is not only distinguished by installation or operational capabilities. Both the lock and the adhesive coating provide a wide selection of colors and textures.

Some people like the characteristic appearance of cork, others want something more interesting. Manufacturers of both provide a huge number of options.

Modern technologies allow cork flooring to imitate any type of wood from traditional (oak, pine, birch) to exotic ones, such as rosewood, zebrano, cocobolo, American walnut and others.

Today, one of the most fashionable ways of laying the floor is the deck method, in which the boards are laid lengthwise, leaving a gap between them.

If a cork floor is laid using the deck method, then a convincing effect of solid wood arises.

Cork floors can reliably imitate a variety of surfaces: stone slabs, sand, pebbles, and so on.

Cork floors are a great solution for apartments with small children. Firstly, this floor is very warm.

This is due to the fact that, compared to tiles or laminate, cork takes away the heat of the human body much more slowly.

Cork is even warmer than parquet, which is considered one of the warmest natural flooring materials.

Secondly, the neighbors below usually hear the clatter of children's feet from the apartment above. Thus, the cork floor makes it possible to provide comfort inside and outside the apartment.

True, the opposite effect is not observed - if you are not lucky with noisy neighbors below, then the cork floor will not help much, since it dampens the sounds of steps and blows, but not the sound waves propagating through the air.

Cork floors may not be the best choice for interiors with massive furniture, but for spacious and in every sense “light” modern interiors, they are the best fit.

Experts still advise using soft furniture legs, for example, felt pads, to protect the floor from damage.

According to user reviews of various forums, the price of cork does not affect the number of dents.

For example, a fairly expensive Swiss coating (more expensive than Portuguese) is quite soft, so furniture legs with sharp tips or stiletto heels can leave marks on them.

However, everything depends on the quality of the material, the professionalism of the installation, the uniformity of the initial floor covering, the quality of the final varnish coating, and the thickness of the cork layer also matters.

Typically, cork is used for smaller residential or office spaces, but there are unprecedented exceptions that demonstrate the potential of cork flooring.

Two thousand square meters of the floor in one of the main halls of the Sagrada Familia (Sagrada Familia) in Barcelona are made of cork.

This decision was made by the chief architect of the legendary building, who evaluated the acoustic and thermal insulation properties of the flooring.

In addition, its appearance makes a luxurious impression. The thickness of the cork and the special topcoat made it possible to achieve amazing performance properties - the floor withstands thousands of visitors in various shoes every day.

Forum visitors do not get tired of arguing about the advantages and disadvantages of various floor coverings.

There is no universal right choice, everyone will have to weigh the pros and cons and choose the most suitable option in a particular situation in a particular room.