In recent years, as environmental concerns are increasing, many try to find eco-friendly flooring options to avoid damaging the environment. Cork flooring is one of the most popular flooring that is considered as a green flooring option due to many sustainable properties it has. Cork flooring is not only stylish and comfortable, but also eco-friendly, making it an ideal flooring choice for every homeowner who is environmentally conscious. In this article, we will have a deep look into the different aspects that make cork flooring an eco-friendly option.
What is cork flooring?
Cork flooring is made of the bark of the cork oak tree, which is not necessary to be cut down the tree to harvest the cork oak. So, the bark of the cork oak tree is removed carefully without damaging the tree. This process can be repeated every 9 to 12 years and that is why the cork oak tree is a renewable resource. Additionally, cork is known for its warmth, unique, and resilient appearance which can be a complementary element in a home design.
Key benefits of cork as an eco-friendly flooring option
As it was already mentioned in this article, cork flooring is considered as an eco-friendly flooring choice which is welcomed by many environment conscious customers. Here are some of the important reasons that are proof of its eco-friendliness.
Renewable and biodegradable
Cork flooring is one of the most sustainable flooring materials as it is not needed to cut down trees to harvest cork oak. Furthermore, cork oak trees are biodegradable and after their life cycle, they will be decomposed by the environment without making landfill waste. Therefore, this flooring option is popular among homeowners as an eco-friendly flooring option.
Natural insulation and energy efficiency
Cork flooring has the heat insulation feature. It can keep the room temperature by trapping the air inside. This would help not only to have a warm and comfortable space, but also to save energy and increase energy efficiency which can result in controlling heating and cooling costs.
Durability and longevity
Cork flooring is naturally highly resistant to scratches, dents, pressure, and moisture. The elasticity of the cork flooring and its bounce back feature makes it a durable flooring option which can last for years without any need for flooring replacements that are against the environment. A high-quality cork flooring can last for up to 25 years if it is maintained well.
Recyclability and low-impact manufacturing
For producing cork flooring, the leftover wine stoppers are also used which will result in the reducing wastes and also making the most of the harvested cork oak. The manufacturing process or the cork flooring production has a completely low impact on the environment and it does not need heavy chemical or toxic industrial materials which makes it a more environmentally friendly choice.
Eco-friendly certifications to look for in cork flooring
When looking for the best cork flooring products and selecting among various models, it is important to consider eco-friendly certification. They have to ensure the product that you plan to use for your property’s flooring passes eco-friendly factors. Here are some certifications with which you can be sure that you choose the right cork flooring:
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification: This certification ensures the cork is harvested sustainably and responsibly.
- GreenGuard certification: This certification shows that the cork flooring emits low levels of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and it therefore creates a better indoor air quality.
- LEED certification: This certification shows that the cork flooring is a suitable option to be used in construction projects as they pass the environment related points such as energy efficiency and indoor environmental quality.
How cork flooring compares to other eco-friendly flooring options
When looking for the sustainable and eco-friendly flooring options, cork, recycled wood, and bamboo flooring are considered as environmentally friendly choices. However, cork flooring offers unique features that the other flooring options like reclaimed wood and bamboo cannot. For example cork flooring requires minimal processing and it grows back quickly without damaging trees. This is while bamboo flooring is durable but needs intensive processing. Here is a simplified comparison table between these three eco-friendly flooring options which helps you have a better view of each one:
| Flooring Material | Renewable | Biodegradable | Natural Insulation | Maintenance |
| Cork | Yes | Yes | Yes | Low |
| Bamboo | Yes | Yes | Limited | Moderate |
| Reclaimed wood | No | Yes | Limited | High |
Conclusion: The sustainable choice with cork flooring
Cork flooring provides a durable, stylish, easy-to-maintain, and eco-friendly solution for anyone who is concerned about the environment while still trying to have a beautiful and modern flooring option. The natural insulation and sustainability in cork flooring can help lower energy consumption and costs.
MA Flooring in Melbourne is a professional flooring service provider that can help you not only find the best eco-friendly cork, but also experience a high quality cork flooring installation at your property. To have a consultation before making your decision, you can contact our flooring experts.