POP!! The sound of the cork flying through the air awakens the senses for the fellowship and laughter soon to follow. What most people are unaware of is the fact that a by-product of cork stoppers can more than just top that bottle of bubbly; it can play a major role in helping you to design the kitchen of your dreams! Let us here at Carolina Flooring show you how a cork floor would make an ideal choice for your kitchen. Cork flooring has many benefits.
First of all, cork flooring is environmentally sustainable. Cork is harvested from the bark of the cork oak, Quercus Suber, which typically grows around the Mediterranean region. Once the tree reaches 18-25 years of age, its bark is harvested. The harvesting process causes no harm to the tree. The bark will regrow, and can be harvested again every 9-10 years. The cork oak has a very long lifespan.
Cork flooring has insulating properties. Cork’s cellular structure contains many “air pockets” which create a wonderful buffer for noise. This is great for mornings when you are trying to move around the kitchen “quiet as a mouse” while the rest of the household sleeps. Cork’s density also acts as a natural insulator improving energy efficiency, and many people who own cork floors report that a cork floor is just a “warmer” floor for those bare feet.
Cork floors are a healthy and safe alternative to most traditional flooring. They are antimicrobial, mold and mildew resistant, and insect resistant. Cork flooring is hypoallergenic as it does not absorb dust or pollen. In case of fire, cork requires a very high temperature before it will melt/ignite. Cork generates less smoke and will not release toxic fumes as those found in other popular floor coverings.
Cork floors are design friendly. The flooring can be purchased in tile squares (12” x 12” or 12” x 24”), planks (12” x 36” boards), or in sheets for a seamless installation. In its natural state, cork is usually a pale tan or brownish color; however, it can be stained in a color of your choosing. If done in tile, you can have different tiles stained or dyed different colors to create a pattern that is one of a kind.
Finally, cork flooring is practical. Cork possesses a flexible surface that is comfortable to stand on, reducing stress on knees and back. This same bounce-back surface helps reduce the chance of breakage of items dropped. Cork is resistant to spills. It is durable and can withstand the heavy foot traffic found in most kitchens. It resists cracking and can be repaired if damaged. This type of flooring has been in use for over a century, and it has proven itself to be a very reliable choice of floor covering. A great kitchen begins with a great floor! Contact us today at Carolina Flooring and let us show you how you can get started on your own cork floor.