BDU Cork Flooring College™

Cork Flooring: Silence is Golden

What you will learn: Reasons to choose cork flooring as a way to minimize sound; where cork flooring comes from; structure of cork flooring; where cork flooring is widely used

A key virtue of an interior for many is the sense of serenity it communicates. In the times when we require a period to unwind or in times when concentration must not be broken, it is the subtle things that we notice in particular. Intrusive sounds, like loud footfalls on flooring surfaces, are good examples of the types of things that can hinder a sense of serenity. What can be done about this?

Cork flooring can stand as a step toward an interior where one is free to unwind from a busy day, or to concentrate efforts on making a busy day a productive one, without the distractions of the sound of footfall echo. Life can become very demanding, and in the times where is it necessary to escape the noise of the modern world, it becomes necessary to find a certain measure of solace in the place where you live. This is true even in the workplace, where concentration is the key to success in many cases. One of the best ways of minimizing unwanted noise caused by footfalls is to choose flooring that is conducive to this requirement. A flooring solution like cork flooring is not only attractive, but also takes the issue of sound into account, and can make all the difference in helping to create an environment of serenity. With cork flooring, made from a natural material which naturally dampens sound, you have an ideal solution.

Cellular structure of cork flooring

Cork flooring is a material that is created from the bark of the cork oak. This material is cellular in nature, each individual compartment in the cork being naturally conducive to insulation, which translates to a more sound-proof flooring solution in cork flooring. Cork flooring is made up of millions of these 14-sided cells, each one serving as a cushion to protect the surface of the cork flooring, and making cork flooring the perfect natural solution in keeping sound to a minimum. Because of this cellular structure, cork flooring is impact resistant as well, which not only lends to its durability, but also adds another dimension to its sound reducing benefits; items dropped on a cork floor will be less likely to draw attention from noise, or from breaking (a kitchen item, such as a plate, is more likely to bounce!). This can make also make a great difference in a busy office, where cork flooring is being used more and more for its quieting, and comfortable, effect.

Noises Off

Cork flooring has been used for many years as a sound reducing solution in recording studios (where you can imagine it would be necessary) as well as a popular material out of which to make underlayment. In recent years, however, cork flooring has become more widely accepted flooring solution for residences and offices, often applied to kitchens and even bathrooms. Where the clicking of heels can be the loudest, in hallways and foyers for instance, cork flooring has been a popular choice to reduce unnecessary noise. Where it is almost impossible to make an absolutely silent flooring solution, cork flooring is a great way to go if you wish to keep the sound of footfalls, or even dropped items, under control.

Cork flooring not only stands as a very practical choice in terms of durability and decorative benefit, but the reduction in sound for which it has become known will add an even greater value to your interior.

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