1. IT CAN REDUCE YOUR ENERGY BILLS
Cork has natural thermal properties which means it is great for heat insulation and can be a much cheaper alternative to underfloor heating. The result? ‘It means a reduction in energy usage and utility bills’ says Silvi. This of course is dependent on much cork flooring you are using in your home.
2. YOU CAN CHOOSE A WIDE RANGE OF FLOORING OPTIONS
There is a surprisingly wide selection of cork flooring options available. For instance, there are raw unvarnished cork tiles, usually around 4mm thick, which are glued to the subfloor. This gives you control over the type of sealant and adhesive used, but it entails extra installation work and waiting time for the sealant to dry.
3. IT IS ANTIBACTERIAL SO IS A HYGIENIC OPTION
In these hygiene-conscious times, cork flooring is a very considered choice. Cork is a very healthy flooring material that resists mold, insects, and mildew. It is also a great option for people who have allergies because it is easy to clean - simply sweep with a soft-bristled brush - and it doesn’t aggravate symptoms from asthma sufferers or people with respiratory issues like a carpet or rug could do.
4. IT IS KID-FRIENDLY BECAUSE IT IS NATURALLY CUSHIONED
While there are some great wooden flooring ideas around, wood can be quite precarious for young children because they could be prone to slipping on the hard timber and hurting themselves in a fall. Carpet can be equally problematic because it does not often hold up well against the rough and tumble of youngsters. Cork flooring on the other hand, ticks both boxes. The floor is soft enough that it acts as a precaution for children or anyone who may have an increased risk of injury if they fall.
5. CORK FLOORING HELPS TO SOUNDPROOF A ROOM
‘Cork flooring significantly improves the acoustics of a space,’ says Silvi. Cork gets its incredible soundproofing abilities from the little air pockets within the material. This means cork flooring is particularly useful in rooms where you need peace and quiet like bedrooms and a good thing to consider when thinking about home office ideas. It is also ideal for rooms where you would prefer to disguise the noise, like a children’s playroom.