How Do You Install Cork Flooring?

Cork flooring is a great option for those looking for a stylish flooring option that is also affordable and environmentally friendly. Cork floors come in many colors and patterns. It is simple to install compared to many other types of flooring and can be done by most homeowners without the need of professional guidance.

When installing your floors it’s important to first bring the boxes of cork into the room 24-48 hours before installation. To get the best look, mix panels from different boxes randomly. Keep in mind that cork is a natural material and will have some color variations between pieces because of that. Cork is not suitable for damp or steamy rooms. Inspect all pieces of flooring for defects before beginning installation.

• Check to be sure subflooring is level, clean and dry.
• Measure the room and use spacers or batten if the starting wall is not straight.
• Begin in the right corner with the tongue side toward the wall.
• Insert the endpoint of the plank into the endpoint of the next plank at an angle of 20-30 degrees with light pressure.
• Continue with the first row and cut as needed to finish row.
• Begin with end piece from row one if the plank is at least 12 inches. If not begin with a new piece. Be sure to stagger adjacent rows by at least 8 inches.
• Follow the same steps as in the previous row always maintaining spacing from row 1.
• After fitting an entire row, lightly use a tapping block to eliminate any spaces.
• If you used spacers or batten in the first row, remove them after row 3 or 4.
• Be sure to keep spacing around doors, walls etc.
• Remove all spacers and install baseboards and trims ensuring that floor can move freely underneath.
• Be sure not to attach baseboards or trim directly to the floor.

Our Greenguard Certified Cork Flooring. The cork is only harvested from carefully managed forests that are sustainable. When harvesting only the outer layer of bark is taken from the Evergreen Cork Oak. That layer can then grow back. The trees are never harmed when harvesting the cork. This is important because it means that cork can continuously be harvested in a responsible manner and will always be available for flooring purposes unlike most other wood floor products. By purchasing cork flooring that is Greenguard Certified, you are supporting the environment and helping ensure that trees are not taken irresponsibly. The certification also ensures that the product has been through the most stringent tests available to make sure the it’s safe for use in your home. This can greatly improve the indoor air quality in your home and make it safer for your family.