On a consistent basis we get calls of people who are interested in using cork for their flooring project, but are not sure what is really available and what would be the best choice for their specific application.  Cork is a softer yet resilient product that can excel in most applications.  Prized for its natural properties, cork is 100% impermeable, anti-microbial, acoustically insulative, thermally insulative, re-forms to 99.9% of its original volume when compressed, and is easy on joints.  Within the category of cork flooring, there are two main types:  Cork Planks and Cork Tiles.

Cork Planks are a floating application that needs no glues or nails for installation.  They are generally 1’ x 3’ and have a tongue and groove click lock system that makes for a fast and easy installation.  The cork planks have a High Density Fiberboard (HDF) that is sandwiched between two layers of cork (for more information on HDF, see previous posts on cork and formaldehyde).  The HDF provides stability and strength within the plank that allows it to be more tolerant when installing over less than perfectly smooth subfloors.  Cork planks tend to cost more for the materials, but your savings come with the ease (time) of installation because smoothing out a subfloor with the intention of using cork tiles usually costs more than switching to the more expensive material.   Cork planks are a great residential “do it yourself” type project, yet some of the newer, more durable finishes (like ceramic infused finish) on the planks make it appropriate for commercial installations.

Cork tiles are a glue-down installation that requires a more perfect subfloor.  They are generally 4mm thick and will “telescope” any imperfections in the subfloor, meaning they will appear on the surface of the tiles.  Cork tiles are great for new construction and commercial installations, as the smooth laid concrete makes for a desirable subfloor.  Cork tiles tend to be less expensive for the tile, but have a more involved installation that is commonly directed to a professional installer.

Cork flooring is a unique, yet resilient product that has been around for many years.   The more we work with it, the more we like it.  So whether you are remodeling your house or building a commercial retail space, there is a cork floor for you.