How long do cork floors last? Longer than you think!

How is cork flooring sourced?

Cork isn’t just for wine bottles and bulletin boards!

Cork flooring comes from the bark of the cork oak tree. These cork trees are found predominantly in the Mediterranean region; Portugal is actually the largest producer of it and where our cork flooring is sourced and produced!

Every 9-12 years, the cork oak trees undergo a harvesting process where the outer bark is stripped. This causes no harm to the tree itself, but provides an abundance of renewable natural material to use as a great, sustainable flooring option. It also allows the same tree to be harvested multiple times during its lifespan, which often reaches over two centuries.

The removed bark is then processed and transformed into various cork products, starting with cork stoppers for wine bottles, Birkenstocks, and finally cork flooring.

Cork's natural tenacity

Dive deep into the world of flooring materials and you’ll find that few possess the unique characteristics of cork. It really is one-of-a-kind, and its uniqueness lies in its cellular structure.

Unlike other materials, cork is made up of millions of tiny, honeycomb-like cells filled with air. These cells not only make cork lightweight, but also serve as its secret weapon against wear and tear. The presence of these air-filled chambers give cork a natural elasticity, allowing it to compress under pressure and then swiftly return to its original form. This is what we often refer to as its ‘bounce-back’ quality.

So, for example, if you’re cooking in the kitchen and drop a plate, its less likely to shatter due to cork’s sponge-like cushioning to soften the impact. It’s not guaranteed, but the likelihood of that fine china surviving definitely increases!

This natural shock-absorbency does more than just protect your dinnerware. It also provides comfort underfoot, reducing strain on joints and the back. And the best part? The elasticity makes it an ideal material for high-traffic areas.

The walls of cork cells are also impermeable and airtight, thanks to a substance called suberin. Suberin traps the cell’s gases, resulting in elasticity and low thermal conductivity.

READ MORE on the benefits of cork flooring.

Ensuring the longevity of your cork floors

How long do cork floors last? Well, that depends on a range of factors.

Quality cork

First and foremost, the intrinsic quality of the cork itself plays a pivotal role in the flooring’s longevity and appeal. Quality cork is dense, with fewer imperfections and a consistent grain, providing not only a visually appealing surface but also one that’s robust against wear and tear.

Sourcing cork from reputable suppliers ensures that it has been harvested at the optimal time and processed under stringent standards, preserving its natural properties. High-quality cork will have a better resistance to fading, staining, and even microbial growth thanks to its naturally occurring substances.

As cork is a natural product, variations can occur. Opting for high-quality cork guarantees uniformity in terms of colour, pattern, and texture, ensuring a seamless and harmonious look across the entire floor.

Quality installation

The longevity of your cork flooring begins before the first footfall. Proper installation is paramount in ensuring your cork floors last for years to come. A well-installed cork floor eliminates risks associated with potential issues like loose sections, unsightly bubbles, or uneven surfaces. These problems not only mar the visual appeal of the cork, but can also lead to premature wear and tear. So, trusting the right craftsmen with the installation process is paramount to setting a solid foundation for years of use.

Choose your finish

You’ve got a couple of options when it comes to cork flooring finishes.

Polyurethane/Acrylic based finishes are solvent-based, and offer a hard-wearing protective layer to cork floors. Their chemical composition ensures that the cork remains resistant to scratches, scuffs, and other forms of daily wear. They tend to dry forming a solid film on the surface which provides an excellent barrier against spills and moisture. Aesthetically, they can give cork a glossier, more polished appearance. Worth noting, though, is that the application of polyurethane or acrylic finishes is not as environmentally-friendly as water-based alternatives.

Water-based finishes have a lower volatile organic compound (VOC), making them a little more eco-friendly. They maintain the natural appearance of cork, often resulting in a softer and more matte look. Modern water-based finishes can even rival the toughness of traditional polyurethane or acrylic finishes.

Regular maintenance

Like any flooring, regular maintenance is essential in maintaining its beauty and resilience. Simple routine tasks like sweeping and vacuuming can prevent dirt and grit from acting as abrasive agents on the surface. We recommend doing that once a week.

You can also dust and mop in between, which also helps get rid of grit that might scratch the cork flooring. When you do mop, make sure you wring out the mop thoroughly to prevent your cork floors from getting too wet. You can let your floors air dry, or use a dry cloth or towel to get rid of any excess moisture.

Protection against the unexpected

Even the toughest materials have their vulnerabilities. Cork flooring, with its myriad of benefits, also requires some protection.

For example, if you have heavy furniture, using protective pads is essential to ensure your cork floors don’t endure any undue stress or indentation.

Similarly, while cork has a natural resistance to moisture, prolonged exposure (especially in areas like bathrooms) can lead to water damage. If you do have an accidental spill, make sure you clean it up straight away!

You can also look at putting rugs and runners in high traffic areas.

Refinish when needed

At the end of the day, wear and tear is normal for any flooring type, including hardwood floors. Our floors are made to be lived on!

Cork flooring can be refinished, which can bring back its youthful charm, and ensure it stands up robustly to daily life.

Find your cork flooring

With its unique blend of sustainability and style, cork flooring is a game-changer when it comes to transforming your space. Our premium cork flooring range combines nostalgia and modernity, making it a great choice for your floors – something that will look good for years to come. Our experienced team can talk you through our wide variety of flooring services and find the perfect fit. Explore our cork flooring range today!