RESILIENT FLOOR COVERING

Cork flooring.

It became popular in the United States when renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright chose cork flooring for many of his home designs.

Features;

This resource is renewable and sustainable No matter how much foot traffic it endures, or how

long furniture stands on it, it retains its shape and elasticity

It’s a natural fire inhibitor It insulates against heat and cold and maintains a

warm floor temperature in your home It has excellent acoustic properties, as it absorbs

ambient sound It is naturally anti-static It has an inherent cushioning nature Its properties prevent the cultivation of mold and

resist dust mites and insects This material is resistant to moisture penetration It is an excellent choice of flooring for rooms used by

children or the elderly

Today’s cork floors offer selection, performance, and beauty and can be manufactured as tiles, planks, or even sheets in various thicknesses. The cork goes through a baking process that increases its durability, and is then sealed with polyurethane or wax. There is practically no waste--from the harvesting of the raw material--to the finished floor, making it highly desirable as a “green” product. The bark is taken from a cork oak tree and harvested without any negative environmental impact. In fact, the bark actually re-grows and can be harvested again in nine to twelve years!

Cork floors are, more or less, synonymous with comfort and gentleness underfoot. This might be your material of choice if you have toddlers and small children at home prone to falls. Homes for the elderly often incorporate cork as the flooring of choice for its unique level of comfort and warmth. If you stand for long periods of time, cork underfoot helps relieve back stress and leg fatigue.

How to care for cork floors

Wipe away spills at once Damp mop the floor occasionally Vacuum and sweep regularly to clean dirt and grit

that can cause abrasion to the floor Place breathable mats and rugs at entrances to

prevent dirt and debris from being tracked in Use a mat in front of the kitchen stove and sink to

prevent wear due to excessive use Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scuffs If the finish is appearing dull, have your floors

recoated to protect the cork As with any floor covering material, use window

coverings to prevent excessive exposure to direct sunlight

What not to do

Don’t wet mop a cork floor. Avoid excessive moisture Don’t use mats with rubber backings. (They trap

moisture and affect the finish of the floor) Don’t walk on cork floors with stiletto heels Don’t drag heavy furniture across a cork floor. Better

to lift and place to protect the floor