July 07, 2008
Cork flooring is installed much like a hardwood floor in that once installed, a urethane coating is applied. However, cork flooring is much warmer than wood as well as being durable and forgiving.[10] Cork flooring is available in tiles and tongue-and-groove planks, starting at about $3 per square foot. Cork flooring comes in an array of rich, woody tones which vary subtly in pattern, texture, and hue.[11] Cork flooring is a wooden product and should be handled with care and consideration. There are some shade variations from tile to tile and therefore, the shade of a sample may not always be identical to that of delivered tiles.[12]
Installation methods differ depending on whether you buy tiles or tongue-and-groove planks. Cork veneered wood-composite planks are glued to each other but not to the subfloor.[27] Check with your manufacturer’s specifications on maintaining particular humidity ranges.[28] Installing cork is relatively simple, providing that you have the proper tools and adhesive. In addition, you have to take extreme care in properly preparing the subfloor.[29]
Reference Sites:
[10] http://www.atlantaflooringdesign.com/residential/linoleum.html
[11] http://www.reddawn.com/bldmatrev1-98.html
[12] http://www.laminatefloorings.net/cork_flooring_install.htm
[27] http://www.handymanclub.com/projects/project.aspx?id=19837
[28] http://www.pcflooring.com/environmental.php
[29] http://www.querycat.com/faq/3d5ffaaaee6f9563f55a9aac24ec64c6
