by Frederick M. Hueston
Cork flooring offers several outstanding benefits to homeowner looking for something new and exciting in their home. The durability of cork flooring is appealing to most homeowners. High heels and furniture can do no damage! Cork flooring tiles are typically protected with a durable environmentally friendly urethane containing no formaldehyde. When cork is subjected to pressure, the gas in the cells is compressed and volume reduces considerably. When released from pressure, cork recovers very rapidly to its original shape. Cork is remarkably resistant to wear, as it is less affected by impact and friction than other hard surfaces because of its cellular composition.
Natural cork is a fire inhibitor, not spreading the flame. Cork also does not release any toxic gases on combustion. Another major benefit is the fact that cork is antimicrobial and insect repellant. Even termites are unwelcome. The suberin, the inherent substance of cork, is a natural insect repellent
Perhaps the most valuable asset of cork flooring is the ease of maintenance. Today, waxing is no longer needed. Sweeping and mopping will be the usual maintenance. A few years down the road when the finish starts to wear off, lightly sand the floor and reapply a new coat of urethane. Your floor will last for several decades.
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