The pros and cons of cork flooring explained

As cork rapidly gains popularity as a flooring material, more and more homeowners are finding out about its amazing qualities. To many people, it seems like the perfect solution—a unique, eco-friendly combination of comfort and durability, harvested from the venerable cork oak with the tree’s own renewal.

Of course, nothing is perfect in this world, and much like any other material, cork has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we break down the pros and cons of cork flooring to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your home.

The 7 Main Benefits of Cork Flooring

1. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable

Cork is the name given to the bark of the cork oak tree, which regenerates over time. It is harvested without harming the tree itself, making it a completely renewable resource. Additionally, the production of cork flooring leaves a smaller environmental footprint, compared to synthetic materials like vinyl or laminate.

All this makes it a top choice for owners of homes or commercial spaces who prioritise the environment and for green building projects.

2. Comfort & Warmth

Cork is made up of millions of tiny air-filled cells, and its microscopic structure gives it its characteristic flexibility and resilience, making it feel nice and soft to walk on, and providing a level of comfort that hard flooring options like tile or hardwood lack. 

It also reduces foot and joint fatigue, making cork especially perfect for rooms where people stand for long periods, such as kitchens.

Cork is also an exceptional natural insulator, helping to keep your home warm when the weather is cold, and cool when it’s hot outside.

3. Soundproofing

Cork’s helpful cells are also great at absorbing sound waves, which means that it will help to insulate a room from outside noise.

This makes it a top pick for apartments and multi-level homes, and especially for spaces like home offices and media rooms – but really, for any room where you value peace and quiet, as it reduces noise from neighbours below.

4. Durability

Don’t be deceived by its gentleness: cork is resilient and will be with you for the long haul. When properly maintained, cork flooring can last for decades.

It’s resistant to cracking and abrasions, and recovers well from minor indentations due to its flexibility. This makes it a practical choice for both homes and commercial buildings.

5. Easy to Clean

Another of the benefits of cork flooring is that it’s low-maintenance. Its smooth surface is easy to clean with a broom or a vacuum, and liquid spills can be wiped up with a cloth. Because cork is naturally resistant to mould, mildew and pests, it also contributes to a healthy environment in your home.

6. Hypoallergenic

A chemical substance called suberin gives cork its natural antimicrobial properties, combating not only mould but also bacteria, pollen, and other allergens.

Unlike carpets, which can trap allergens, cork promotes indoor air quality and is a fantastic choice for people who suffer from allergies.

7. Versatile Design Options

Nowadays, cork is available in a variety of colours, patterns and finishes, so that it can complement any style of design. Whether you prefer a rustic aesthetic, or something bold and modern, you’ll find something you like. You can also choose from different tile and plank sizes to create custom layouts.

The Main Disadvantages of Cork Flooring

1. Moisture Sensitivity

Cork is naturally water-resistant, but not fully waterproof. Prolonged exposure to water can cause it to swell, warp, or crack over time.

In areas where the floor may often get wet, such as bathrooms or basements, cork is only a good option if it’s sealed properly. Homeowners who install cork flooring in these areas should take care to apply a high-quality sealant and, ideally, reseal the floor at regular periods, every 2 to 4 years or so.

2. Susceptibility to Dents and Scratches

Of course, cork’s softness has a downside, in that it’s more vulnerable to dents and scratches than harder materials like hardwood or tile. Heavy furniture, sharp objects or a pet’s claws can leave marks on the surface.

Cork tends to recover easily from minor indentations, but deep scratches or heavy impacts may cause permanent damage. To prevent this, we recommend that you use furniture pads, rugs, and keep your pet’s nails trimmed.

3. Colour Fading

Cork’s colours can fade when exposed to direct sunlight for too long. Rooms with large windows that catch a lot of sunlight may cause it to gradually lighten.

If you're concerned about fading, simple solutions include using curtains or blinds, rugs to cover exposed areas, or opting for cork with UV-resistant finishes.

How Does Cork Flooring Compare Against Other Popular Alternatives?

Let’s check out the strengths and disadvantages of cork floorings in contrast with three alternatives: hardwood, laminate, and vinyl.

• Hardwood: Hardwood is another natural, ancient material. It’s even more durable, but cork is the clear winner when it comes to comfort and sound insulation. Hardwood is also more vulnerable to water than cork, unless treated.
• Laminate: This is a budget-friendly option that mimics the appearance of natural wood, but it lacks the comfort of cork, and isn’t eco-friendly either. Laminate is also not as effective in soundproofing.
• Vinyl: A waterproof, low-cost alternative that is often used in wet areas like basements and bathrooms. However, it’s made from synthetic materials and lacks the natural qualities of cork.

Each of these alternatives has undoubtedly its own merits. Among them, cork stands out as a versatile option for people looking for a balance between sustainability, comfort and aesthetics.

How Much Does a Cork Floor Cost?

Installation costs depend on several factors, such as the type of installation, the size and characteristics of the area, any required preparations, and the company you hire. For an estimate, use £30/m² to £50/m². This, of course, assumes professional installation.

Cork has a higher upfront cost compared to materials like vinyl or laminate, but its durability makes it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Conclusion

A cork flooring offers a unique combination of cosiness, sustainability and soundproofing. However, you should weigh its advantages and disadvantages against other options to see if it’s the right fit for your home.

If the idea of a natural, comfortable flooring that promotes a healthy indoor environment sounds good to you, cork is worth serious consideration. 

If you’re ready to explore your options, check out Portuguese Treasures' wide range of cork flooring designed to meet both your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.