Can Cork Flooring Be Used Outdoors? Pros, Cons & Tips

Its many great qualities have made cork flooring increasingly popular in recent years, but it is still mostly seen indoors. Many people wonder how well it would perform outside the walls of their home.

Can cork flooring be used outside? This is the question that this article will try to properly answer, by examining cork’s strengths and drawbacks, and giving some important tips for successful outdoor application.

Can Cork Flooring Be Used Outside?

It’s not hard to find examples of cork outdoor flooring, including covered patios and decks, poolside lounging areas, playgrounds and play areas, sunrooms, or conservatories.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that cork, though tough and resilient, is not invulnerable and may show weaknesses when exposed to the elements. We’ll go into these weaknesses in more detail below.

Pros of Cork Flooring for Outdoors

• Comfortable and soft: One of the standout qualities of cork is its naturally cushiony, shock-absorbing consistency, making it perfect for walking barefoot, lounging, or children’s play.
• Natural insulating properties: Cork is an exceptional thermal and acoustic insulator. This means it helps to regulate the temperature, making outdoor spaces more comfortable in both warm and cool weather.
• Water resistance: Though not waterproof, cork is naturally water-resistant, due to a waxy substance named suberin in its composition. When sealed properly, cork can withstand moisture exposure reasonably well, addressing one of the main concerns for outdoor applications.

Cons of Cork Flooring for Outdoors

Now the downsides to consider:

• Durability against weather: Cork is not designed to endure prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions such as heavy rainfall, intense sunlight, or freezing temperatures.
• Potential for mould and mildew: Cork has natural antimicrobial properties, which make it resistant to mould, but not immune, especially if water seeps through cracks, or it is exposed to high humidity for prolonged periods.
• Colour fading: Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause cork’s colour to fade over time; UV-resistant coatings are very useful to prevent that.
• Maintenance requirements: If you have cork flooring outdoors, regular resealing and basic maintenance are necessary to keep it in good condition over time.

Tips for Cork Outdoor Flooring

Finally, if you decide that cork is the right choice for your outdoor space, here is some good advice that you should know:

• Seal it properly: Sealant is a very important detail when it comes to cork. Apply a high-quality, UV-resistant, and water-repellent sealant to protect your flooring effectively. Ideally, you should redo the sealing annually or as recommended by the product manufacturer.
• Choose a sheltered location: Obviously, if possible, a cover will do much to protect the flooring from the weather. Using cork in areas that are naturally or artificially sheltered, such as covered patios, pergolas, or screened porches, will help to reduce direct exposure to rain and sunlight.
• Regular maintenance: Keep the floor clean to prevent scratches and mould growth. Regularly inspect for signs of damage and reseal when needed.
• Use outdoor-specific cork products: There are products specifically designed for outdoor use. Be sure to take a bit of time to research and choose adequate products.
• Add protective coverings: Use outdoor rugs or mats in areas where people often pass through, to provide an additional layer of protection against wear.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that cork flooring can be used outdoors with excellent results, but it does come with some limitations and maintenance requirements that you should be aware of.

If well treated and maintained, cork is a fantastic and perfectly viable option for the outdoors, and particularly for semi-outdoor spaces, that will last – come rain or come shine.

Portuguese Treasures offers a wide range of cork flooring suitable for outdoor spaces, as well as cork flooring accessories to help protect and extend your flooring’s resistance and durability.