For a long time, Cork had a low reputation due to usage of low quality materials, but over the years, it has made a comeback as advances in manufacturing have made care and maintenance easier than before. Cork Flooring provides a unique statement as it offers the perfect flooring solution for music lovers, people with pets and for customers who want the Eco – friendly option.
Long before its fame as a flooring material, cork was an essential tool for various functions. Be it in sealing bottles or aiding fishermen with their floats, cork’s versatility was well-established. Its transformation as a sought-after flooring material began only a few centuries ago, largely due to its durable and insulating capabilities. The story of cork is indeed as resilient as the material itself.
Vancouver’s Growing Affinity for Cork Flooring
Climate Compatibility
Vancouver, with its oscillating weather patterns from drenching winters to bright summers, demands adaptable flooring. Enter cork. Its innate insulation properties are a blessing, ensuring cozy feet during chilly days and a refreshing surface during hotter times.
The Green Wave: Vancouver’s Sustainability Drive
The people of Vancouver have a penchant for green alternatives, and their flooring choices are no exception. With an increasing thrust on sustainability, cork flooring emerges as a hero. Why? It’s renewable, recyclable, and aligns seamlessly with the city’s eco-friendly ethos.
Cork Flooring: An Eco-Friendly Option
Sustainable Cork Harvesting
The method of sourcing cork is environmentally sound. The bark of the cork oak tree is gathered without causing any damage to the tree itself, and it rejuvenates over approximately nine years.
Minimal Carbon Impact
When compared to other flooring alternatives, the manufacture and transport of cork produce a notably smaller carbon footprint, cementing its position as an eco-conscious choice.
Qualities of Cork Flooring
It is made of the bark of the cork tree and has a very cellular structure which allows it to have ‘memory’. Its remarkable properties are what makes cork warm, cozy and quiet – qualities that make the perfect environment for your home. It can be used in different areas of your house or office due to its unique characteristics. If you notice recent trends, you will find out that cork flooring has become popular in Vancouver.
This is because it can be used in various rooms for various reasons. Its soft and yielding surface makes it great for people who need to be on their feet all day. It acts as a natural insulation and offers noise reduction. This makes it the perfect choice for homeowners who like to have a home theatre, or music lovers who need to jam, without disturbing anyone else. It is a great feature in schools and hospitals as it absorbs impact sounds, and its ability ensures that most objects do not leave a dent in its surface. This same property also traps the warmth, so you can save on your heating bill in winter.
For our Green Clients, we’re proud to share that we don’t cut any trees for its production. Harvesters collect the loose bark during summer, and the tree regrows its bark within 9 years, allowing it to provide cork for many decades.
Cork Flooring: DIY vs Professional Expertise
While a number of property owners choose to personally install cork flooring, engaging a professional, such as BC Floors, ensures meticulous execution and prolonged durability.
Although online purchasing is undeniably convenient, sourcing from local shops offers tangible experience and superior post-purchase support. In Vancouver, there are esteemed establishments offering top-tier cork flooring, with BC Floors standing out as a notable professional in the field.
Caring for Cork Floors
Effective Cleaning Methods
A routine dusting and the occasional wipe with a damp mop suffice to maintain the immaculate look of cork floors. It’s crucial to steer clear of harsh cleaning agents.
Protective Steps and Solutions
Utilizing a protective seal can shield the cork from accidental spills and potential marks, ensuring its unblemished appearance lasts longer.
Weighing Cork Against Other Flooring Alternatives
Hardwood flooring
While both present sustainable options, cork typically comes at a more affordable price and boasts superior insulating properties compared to hardwood.
Ceramic tiles
Cork imparts a warm and cushioned feel under one’s feet, a stark contrast to the chilly, rigid nature of ceramic tiles.
Carpet flooring
Even though carpet flooring has a soft texture, it can be a repository for allergens. In contrast, cork is hypoallergenic and presents fewer maintenance challenges.
Cork flooring installation in Vancouver
We sell the best brands that specialize in cork flooring in Vancouver, and also offer the services for installation of the same as it requires great expertise. You should take many precautions during installation. You can install cork flooring over a variety of subfloors such as concrete, wood, and tile, which makes it a versatile choice for remodelling.
There are two methods of Cork flooring installation – Click and Glue-together Method. We stock all colours and sizes of Cork depending upon the area of your house you wish to remodel and the colour scheme of the same. Most cork floors in Vancouver have a natural hue, which brings a calming atmosphere to the home. However, you can also find them in various stained colours to suit your preferences.
Finally, water based polish is to be applied to the surface of the cork material on a regular basis to prolong its life. As always, BC Floors brings you Innovative floor covering solutions at its finest. Contact us for a free onsite estimation and samples demonstration.
FAQs
1. What is the lifespan of cork flooring?
On average, with proper care and maintenance, cork flooring can last between 25 and 30 years.
2. How often should you reseal cork?
You should reseal cork flooring every 5 to 7 years to keep its shine and protective barrier.
3. Is cork flooring pet-friendly?
Yes, cork is resistant to scratches and offers a comfortable surface for pets. However, it’s essential to trim pets’ nails to prevent potential damage.
4. How does cork fare against water spills?
While cork is naturally resistant to moisture, it’s crucial to clean up spills promptly to prevent potential damage or staining.