Cork Floors and How to Care for Them

Cork is an all-natural product, harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree. Perfect for green construction, cork oak is the only tree whose bark regenerates itself after harvest, leaving the tree unharmed. The bark is harvested every 9 years as mandated by governmental agencies resulting in an all-natural, environmentally responsible product with exceptional physical properties.

Aside from the rich texture, numerous patterns, and beautiful colors of cork tiles, cork flooring is appreciated for its soft give under foot, resistance to dents, and its thermal & acoustical insulative qualities.

 

Some maintenance tips for caring for cork flooring:

1. Ask the flooring manufacturer for care and maintenance recommendations. Some cork floors are treated with finishes that can impact how the floor should be maintained.

2. Ensure matting systems are installed at all entry points to help prevent soils from being tracked in.

3. If placing mats on cork floors, make sure they are breathable. Rubber or non-porous backings can trap moisture, which will damage the floor.

4. Vacuum the floor regularly. Backpack vacuum cleaners work well on cork and help remove sand and dust that can scratch the floor.

5. Clean up spills immediately. Moisture that sits on the floor for long periods can damage cork.

6. Damp mop regularly (depending on use) with a neutral pH cleaner. DO NOT use harsh chemicals. Do not use an overly wet mop and be sure to ring well to remove excess moisture and chemicals.

7. Mop the perimeter of the floor first, and then work to the center.

8. Machine buff the floor using soft buffing pads to remove scuff marks and restore the natural shine of the cork.

9. Be careful not to drag cleaning equipment or carts over cork as this may cause deep gouge marks.

10. Use Green certified cleaning chemicals on the floor; they have fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and less impact on indoor air quality.