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

Cork and rubber are two popular flooring options that offer unique advantages but differ significantly in cost implications and long-term benefits.

This article will analyse the characteristics, costs, maintenance needs and overall value-for-money of cork and rubber flooring, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Let’s start with a summary of some of the most prominent differences. 

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 and excellent insulation qualities, cork flooring is comfortable to walk on and looks elegant and unique.

Initial Costs:

The initial cost of the materials varies depending on factors like quality and thickness, typically starting from 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 does require 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 enjoy how it can make a room much cosier, and its hypoallergenic and antimicrobial properties – courtesy of a chemical substance named suberin in its composition – make it a great choice if you prioritise clean air.

Because of how well it absorbs sound, cork is also often used in playrooms and libraries, while kitchens benefit from its softness in particular, making the time you spend cooking more pleasant 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 Rubber Flooring

Rubber flooring was traditionally used in gyms and commercial spaces but is now increasingly popular in residential buildings: homeowners appreciate its resilience, durability, and easy maintenance, as well as the fact that it’s not easily damaged by water.

One of the important distinctions is between natural and synthetic rubber. Natural rubber is more environmentally friendly, but is less resilient—a factor that may not be a top priority in residential settings. Rubber flooring can come in a variety of colours and textures to suit different aesthetic preferences.

Initial Costs:

Rubber flooring typically ranges from 55 to 90 GBP/m², with installation fees adding about 20 GBP/m², depending on the complexity of the project. The total initial cost averages 75 to 110 GBP/m². Additional costs may include underlay or adhesives, which may moderately increase the overall price.

Maintenance and Lifespan Costs:

One of the standout advantages of rubber flooring is its low maintenance: it requires only basic cleaning, with a broom or a mop, to keep it looking as new. Rubber is resistant to water and most stains, making it an excellent choice for moisture-prone areas.

High-quality rubber flooring can last 15 to 30 years or more, its excellent durability making it a cost-effective solution.

Common applications for rubber flooring

Rubber flooring is primarily seen in commercial and practical spaces, such as gyms and fitness centres, playrooms, children's areas, basements, commercial buildings, garages, bathrooms, kitchens, schools, daycare centres, and dance studios.

It’s a great choice for spaces where the priority is durability, practicality and resilience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Very long-lasting
• Resistant to water and easy to clean
•  Shock-absorbent

Cons:

• Higher initial costs, especially for premium rubber
• Limited variety, in terms of appearance
• May emit an odour, initially, though it usually dissipates over time

Cost Comparison: Cork Flooring vs Rubber Flooring

Upfront Costs: Cork and rubber flooring prices can overlap, but rubber is generally more expensive, especially for premium options. Both solutions offer good value for your money and can fit a reasonably tight budget.

Long-Term Costs: The main difference is that cork requires periodic sealing, which adds slightly to its long-term maintenance costs. Rubber, on the other hand, requires minimal upkeep, which, combined with its longevity, makes it inexpensive in the long run.

Value for Money: While rubber flooring often costs more upfront, it lasts longer than cork, potentially offering better long-term value. Cork, while possessing some qualities that rubber can’t offer, incurs higher periodic maintenance costs and is less resistant to wear and tear. 

It is true, however, that in many contexts, particularly private homes or anywhere without high-impact activity going on, cork’s drawbacks may not matter all that much.

Factors That Influence Costs

Quality and Grade:

For both cork and rubber flooring, a higher quality product will cost more but offer more durability, better performance, and in the long run may pay off the investment. One of the main factors is thickness.

Area Size and Installation Complexity:

Naturally, the larger the area and the more labor hours required, the higher the cost to install it.

Both types of flooring are relatively easy to install, which is often done by homeowners as a DIY project. Cork is usually more complex than rubber, however, and requires sealing.

Additional Factors:

Environmental factors and intensity of use also play a role. Cork may not perform well in high-humidity areas unless properly sealed to prevent damage. Rubber is better suited for moisture-prone spaces.

Conclusion

Cork and rubber are two reliable and durable types of flooring that offer excellent value for your money, but aside from that, there are more contrasts between them than similarities, and they tend to be used differently. The durability and resilience of rubber are unmatched, while cork is eco-friendly, terrific at making a room cosier and perfect for people looking for a comfortable, elegant-looking option.

Thinking about your budget, long-term plans, and the requirements of the space will help you make a choice.

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.

Read about other popular comparisons:

• Cork flooring vs Carpet
• Cork flooring vs Laminate
• Cork flooring vs Hardwood