A Complete Guide to Cork Flooring – Types, Installation, Pros & Cons, and Pricing in Australia

Ever wondered about a special kind of flooring that comes from trees but doesn’t harm them?

There’s a floor that’s not only cozy for your feet but also helps our planet. Yes! It’s Cork Flooring!
Planet Ark Store is leading the way. We provide you with eco-friendly cork flooring Perth. This helps customers make an informed and sustainable choice for their homes.

It is becoming a top pick for homeowners because it helps the planet and offers practical benefits. It’s water-resistant, which is a big plus. It’s budget-friendly, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking for affordability without compromising on quality.

Moreover, it is beginner-friendly when it comes to installation. With its unique features like comfort, durability, and insulation, cork floor is gaining popularity among those who want a natural and sustainable alternative to traditional flooring materials.

Let’s explore how it can transform your home into a comfortable and environmentally friendly space.

Understanding Cork Flooring – How is it made?

You know, cork comes from the bark of special trees called cork oak trees. But the amazing thing is, when we take the cork off the tree, it doesn’t harm the tree at all. It’s like giving the tree a little haircut!

After we get the cork from the tree, we cut it into sheets and then bake these sheets in ovens. This process helps to make the cork strong and ready to be used for flooring. Sometimes, we mix cork with other things to make it even more durable.

It’s a great choice for bathrooms, basements, and kitchens because it’s good at resisting water and mildew. This means it can handle wet areas without getting damaged easily. If you put it in the right way and look after it well, cork flooring can last a long time and be very durable. Taking care of it is simple but important to make sure it stays in good shape.

Types of Cork Flooring

It offers a diverse range of types, each catering to different preferences, styles, and functionalities. Some of them easily available in Australia are given below:

• Cork Floor Tiles: These are the most common among others. They come in various sizes and styles. These tiles offer homeowners the flexibility to create unique patterns and designs. These are further categorized into two:
• Glued-down Tiles: These cork tiles are special because they are entirely made of cork, without any extra layers underneath. Therefore, they are called ’solid cork tiles’. We use a strong glue called contact adhesive to keep them in place on the floor. It’s helpful because it makes sure the tiles stay firmly in position, and it stops water from going in between them.
• Self-Adhesive Tiles: These are sometimes called peel-and-stick cork tiles flooring because they have a sticky side that attaches to the floor underneath. This sticky part helps keep the tiles in place and makes putting them down quite simple. However, the stickiness isn’t super strong, so the tiles might come off from the floor a bit. If that happens, it’s easy to take them off and put new ones in their place.
• Cork Flooring Planks: In this type of cork flooring, the cork is stuck onto a base, like fiberboard or plywood. Then, it’s placed over the existing floor or subfloor. Unlike other methods, there’s no need for glue because the cork planks have a clever way of fitting together with a locking system.
• Cork Sheets: These are larger pieces of cork that can be used for larger areas. They provide a seamless look and are often chosen for their simplicity and elegance.
• Cork Panels: These are big pieces of cork tiles for walls. They are like smaller cork tiles but larger to make fancy walls or cover big areas in your home.
• Cork and Panel: This combines the warmth of cork with the versatility of tiles. This hybrid flooring option serves those who appreciate the benefits of both materials.

Planet Ark Store offers all these options for customers seeking a distinctive and eco-friendly flooring solution. Our cork and tile combinations ensure a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality.

How to Install Modern Cork Flooring?

Installing cork flooring can be a do-it-yourself project if you have the right tools and know-how. However, keep in mind that doing it yourself might be a bit challenging. If you want the job to be perfect, you can always ask our professional help. Step-by-step instructions are given bellow:

• Prepare the Subfloor: Make sure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Any irregularities or bumps can impact the result.
• Adjust the Cork Tile’s Temperature: Allow the cork tiles to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours (about 2 days).
• Layout Design: Plan the layout of the cork tiles, considering the room’s dimensions and any design preferences.
• Apply Adhesive (Glue): Use a high-quality adhesive to secure the tiles to the subfloor.
• Install Tiles: Begin laying the cork tiles. Starting from the center and working towards the walls. Ensure a tight fit between tiles.
• Cut Tiles as Needed: Use a sharp utility knife to cut tiles to fit around corners or against walls.
• Sealing and Finishing: Depending on the type of cork flooring, sealing and finishing may be necessary.

Pros & Cons of Cork Floor

• Advantages:
• Eco-Friendly
• Warm, Soft, and Comfortable Underfoot
• Excellent and Easy Insulation
• Durable/Long-lasting Performance
• Renewable Resource
• Resistant to fire and water
• Hypoallergenic/Resists Allergens
• Stylish Aesthetics/Enhanced Interior Decor
• Easy Maintenance/Simple Cleaning
• Affordable/Cost-Effective
• Disadvantages:
• Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause damage.
• Susceptible to scratches and dents
• Excessive sunlight may lead to fading or discoloration
• Limited style options

Cork Flooring Cost in Australia

The cost of cork floors can vary based on factors such as thickness, design, and brand. On average, the cost per square meter can range from $60 to $150. It’s important to note that investing in high-quality cork flooring pays off in the long run, considering its durability and eco-friendly attributes.

Get Ready to Step onto Eco-Friendly Cork Flooring with Planet Ark Store

We bring you a flooring solution that goes beyond trends. Our cork floor solutions reflect a harmony between nature and modern living.

Looking for a cork floor shop near me. Look no further! Choose Planet Ark Store and transform your space with the warmth and elegance of cork flooring.