Cork Floor Installation - Applying Adhesive and Installing Cork Tiles

Commonly recommended adhesives for installing cork are 'water-based contact cement' adhesives which are known to be amongst the most reliable and effective. Cork is a porous material and allows the water in the adhesive to evaporate, creating a strong bond. Moreover, contact cement is easily available in nearly every hardware store.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application of any adhesives you decide on. These instructions will guide you on how to go about applying the appropriate amount of adhesive. They will also advise on using proper applicators (i.e. trowel, brush etc) which will yield the best results. For adhesives to be used with a trowel, make sure you use the proper trowel size to ensure the correct amount is applied. You will also be told about how to determine drying and cure times based on existing conditions at the time of installation.

It is generally suggested that you install one or two tiles with your adhesive in a low visibility area to check its bonding ability.

Installing the Cork Tiles

Apply adhesive to the floor with a new short nap roller. Use the paint tray for carrying the glue. You may coat the entire area or as much as you can in one day. Wait for half an hour for the adhesive to dry. There should be a slight gloss on the floor. You may have to put 2 coats if the cement is very porous.

Make sure that you brush off the dust from the back of the tiles before you install it. Any debris on the back of the tile will eventually result in an uneven surface on the cork floor. Line up the edge of your squares with guideline and set the cork tiles down. Apply pressure only when the tiles are aligned as applying pressure before aligning may cause the cork tiles to stick firmly and further movement will not be possible.

Avail the flexibility of cork in making very tight joints to avoid gaps. Then, using a small hand J-roller, press down on all the joints. If you have gaps in the installation flooring, you can fill them by mixing cork dust, a little urethane and some touch-up stain.