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Cork flooring is a durable and environmentally friendly option made from the bark of cork oak trees. Manufacturers dry, grind, and compress the cork bark with resin to form solid tiles or engineered planks. This process preserves cork's natural texture and insulating properties, making it an excellent choice for homes and commercial spaces that require lasting style and performance.

Cork is a good option for kitchens and bathrooms due to its natural water resistance, warmth, and comfort underfoot. However, it's not entirely waterproof, and prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to swelling or deterioration. To protect your floors in damp areas, consider moisture-sealed cork flooring and ensure proper sealing and maintenance.

You can add cork flooring over radiant heat, but check with the manufacturer to confirm. Most cork flooring manufacturers recommend that the surface temperature not exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Because cork is an insulator, a cork floor heated by radiant heat will take longer to warm up but retain the heat more efficiently.

You can stain an unfinished cork floor to your desired color with a water-based stain used for wood before you seal it. One quart costs an average of $11 and covers 135 square feet. Rub the stain on the cork floor using a soft cloth or a sponge-covered paint roller and apply as many coats of stain (up to the manufacturer's limit) as necessary to get the desired color depth.

You will need to reseal cork floors every few years. The sealant protects the floor from moisture, stains, and scratches. Most homeowners use water-based polyurethane, which costs an average of $10 per quart. You can also use acrylic or carnauba wax, but these must be stripped and reapplied more frequently—about every six months to a year.

Cork flooring lasts for 40 years or more when it is properly maintained. Quality cleaning and diligent maintenance ensure that the floor retains its durability and attractive appearance over decades. Neglecting proper care can reduce the lifespan to as low as 15 to 20 years. Following immediate spill cleanup and using recommended cleaning methods safeguards your flooring for the long term.