Natural CORK Flooring
Lasting beauty can be achieved through purchasing a
quality floor covering and providing proper on-going
maintenance.
Natural Properties
Fading: Cork contains organic pigments. Just like other
wood products, cork will fade and should never be
exposed directly to sunlight. Where possible, use drapes
or other systems to protect your floor from excessive
light. Cork will yellow when fading.
Joints: Wood floor systems expand and contract in
response to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. By
controlling the environment, maintaining an adequate
temperature and relative humidity around 50%, you will
minimize the visible effects of the normal contraction and
expansion of your floor.
Protection: You may protect your cork floor by taking the
following precautions:
- To help eliminate fine particles of dirt/grit that act like
sandpaper and will scratch any floor, vacuum or sweep
as needed.
- Spills should be wiped up immediately.
- Use walk-off mats at entrance doors and in front of
kitchen sink. Avoid rubber backed or other non-ventilated
mats or rugs.
- In the kitchen, use a rug in front of the working areas
such as in front of the stove and sink to prevent local
premature wear.
- Install proper protectors under “feet” of furniture.
Caster wheeled chairs should have wide casters. A
protective mat should be used under office chairs.
- Maintain a minimum humidity of 50% in the room. If
necessary, use a humidifier.
- Periodically check floor for signs of wear. Weight distri-
bution is a key factor in preventing indentation.
Maintenance
Sweep or vacuum floor frequently in order to avoid build
up of abrasive particles. Use only cleaners specified for
use on pre-finished hardwood available from your local
retailer or home center. No wet maintenance!
Most cork decorative patterns are made of thin veneer
laminated to a cork base. Failure to maintain the finish
could result in irreparable damage. The longevity of the
finish is relative to traffic intensity and quality of floor
care. When the floor starts to show a traffic pattern and
signs of wear it is time to renew the finish. It is the
responsibility of the owner to judge when the floor needs
recoating. For cork floors surfaced with acrylic finish a
new coat of polyurethane will make the floor look new
again and prolong its lifespan. Natural Cork recommends
that a flooring professional be employed for this process
and that strict adherence to the finish manufacturer’s
guidelines be observed.
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