Cork Flooring - Unique and Amazing Technical Properties
Cork flooring is now being adapted widely for several reasons. But the most important and unique of those reasons is its characteristic resistance against the traditional enemies to your floor and general environment. This diverse range of resistance comes in the category of cork flooring's technical properties. Here is a brief description:
Resiliency: Cork is a highly resilient material. When cork flooring is subjected to pressure (through some heavy weight or a falling object causing a dent), the gas in the cork tissues is compressed and volume reduces considerably. Indentation appears on the surface of the cork floor. When the pressure is released, cork flooring recovers very quickly to its original shape and form.
Acoustical Insulation: Cork material has an extremely low density due to a 90% gaseous composition. That's why it has impeccable acoustical insulation properties. It is especially known to dampen the sound of footfalls in heavy traffic areas.
Thermal Insulation: Cork material is composed of encapsulated cells containing mostly air. Due to this structure and composition, cork flooring reduces heat loss in rooms and even body heat loss through the feet. It naturally maintains a comfortable moderate temperature, preventing extreme temperatures. Walking barefoot on a cork floor feels warm under foot.
Impermeability: The natural presence of Suberin, a waxy substance in the cork tissues makes cork impervious to both liquid and gas. As a result it does not absorb moisture to a large extent, and resists . Due to this nature, it is also considered the best seal available, and has been used as bottle stopper for decades.
Hypoallergenic Tendency: Cork flooring does not absorb dust or shed any fiber. That's why it does not cause or contribute to allergies. It is the best flooring option for people with asthma or other respiratory problems.
Fire Retardant: The presence of Suberin also makes cork flooring fire retardant. Due to this, cork does not release any toxic gases or fumes during combustion as well.
Insect Resistance and Antimicrobial Nature: Most common insects including termites cannot penetrate, affect or live in a cork floor. It acts as a natural barrier against insects and pests. Also, microbes cannot survive in or on a cork floor.
Softness: Due to the shape of cork cells and their gaseous composition, cork flooring provides a cushioned feel underfoot. It does not feel spongy, but provides noticeable relief for those who stand on their feet for many hours. Whether standing on your feet at work all day, working in your kitchen, or for use in households which include children and the elderly, the softness of cork flooring makes life more comfortable at both home and office.