Cork Flooring vs Hardwood: Cost Analysis and Long-Term Value

Undecided between cork and hardwood flooring? Homeowners often seek to balance aesthetics, durability, and long-term investment, and both cork and hardwood offer distinct advantages and trade-offs.

This article aims to help inform your decision. We’ll begin with a general summary of the differences and explore them in more detail afterward.

Summary

Overview of Cork Flooring

Cork comes from the bark of cork oak trees and is a fully eco-friendly material. Known for its natural cushiony consistency, thermal insulation and hypoallergenic properties, cork flooring is comfortable to walk on and has an elegant, unique appearance.

Initial Costs:

The initial cost of materials varies depending on factors such as quality and thickness, typically starting at about 50 GBP/m² in the lower range. 

The cost of professional installation likewise varies: a typical value could be something like 30 GBP/m², and 50 GBP/m² for glue-down installation.

Maintenance and Lifespan Costs:

Cork can last a long time but requires periodic sealing to stay resistant to water and prevent problems. The cost of resealing it every few years can add up, impacting long-term expenses. However, if well maintained, cork flooring can last 15 to 30 years.

Common applications

Cork flooring is popular in both residential and commercial buildings, and in all kinds of spaces: living rooms, bathrooms, bedrooms, offices and many others.

Homeowners appreciate how cork can make a room much cosier. Its hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties—thanks to a chemical substance called suberin—make it an excellent choice for those prioritising clean air.

Due to its sound-absorbing properties, cork is also often used in playrooms and libraries. Kitchens also benefit from its softness, making time spent cooking more comfortable for your legs and feet.

Pros and Cons

The Pros:

• Comfortable
• Good insulation from sound and temperature
• Resistant to water
• Antimicrobial
• Hypoallergenic
• Eco-friendly
• Resilient
• Durable

The Cons:

• Susceptible to fading and scratching
• Requires periodic sealing

Overview of Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood is a broad term encompassing various types of solid wood, such as oak, maple, and cherry. Hardwood is popular for its classic, timeless elegance and unmatched durability, enhanced by its ability to be refinished multiple times to extend its lifespan.

Initial Costs:

Hardwood flooring typically costs between 35 GBP/m² and 100 GBP/m². Installation requires significant labour, usually costing about 30 to 40 GBP/m², with additional expenses for underlay and special finishes.

Maintenance and Lifespan Costs:

Regular cleaning and occasional refinishing (every 7-10 years) are the primary maintenance tasks. Though this adds to its total cost, hardwood’s ability to last decades makes it a good investment in the long run.

Common Applications for Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood is most commonly used in living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms. Its versatility allows it to complement both traditional and modern home designs.

It is also commonly chosen for hallways, entryways, and other high-traffic areas due to its durable, hard surface. While it can be installed in kitchens or bathrooms, hardwood is generally avoided in high-moisture areas to prevent warping and other issues.

Pros and Cons

The Pros:

• Long-lasting and can be refinished
• Resistant
• Timelessly elegant

The Cons:

•  Higher initial and maintenance costs
•  Vulnerable to moisture, especially if not sealed

Cost Comparison: Cork Flooring vs Hardwood

• Upfront Costs: Generally speaking, cork has lower upfront costs than hardwood. Installation costs are often substantial, adding significantly to the total expense.
• Long-Term Costs: Hardwood lasts often longer and can be refinished, which reduces the need for full replacement. Cork, though durable, typically requires replacement sooner, particularly if not properly maintained.
  
  
• Value for Money: Both cork and hardwood offer good value in the long-term. Cork is a more budget-friendly choice that is soft, warm and eco-conscious, while hardwood’s robustness is its forte.

Factors That Influence Costs

• Quality and Grade: Higher-grade cork and premium hardwood come at higher costs. Engineered hardwood is a more affordable alternative that also offers good longevity.
• Area Size and Installation Complexity: Cork installation is generally easier and less expensive than hardwood.
• Additional Factors: Climate can impact performance. Both cork and hardwood perform poorly in consistently damp environments without proper sealing. However, cork is more resistant to water than hardwood.

Conclusion

Cork and hardwood are both popular and reliable flooring choices. To help decide between them, it’s important to understand their relative advantages, as well as their cost implications.

Cork is more affordable upfront and offers impressive longevity. It’s also second-to-none in terms of its eco-friendliness and ability to make a room cosy and comfortable. Hardwood, by contrast, is more expensive but offers exceptional durability and a longer lifespan.

Consider your budget and maintenance preferences to choose the best option for your home.

Portuguese Treasures offers a wide range of cork flooring with different designs, as well as cork flooring accessories to help protect and extend your flooring’s resistance and durability.