How to Maintain Cork Floors to Prevent the Need for Replacing them Often?

Answer 1

People tend to install cork floors in their home because of their ability to resist mold and mildew, creating a healthier environment. This type of flooring is also water resistant, so there are less chances of rotting and decaying, which requires the need for costly replacement needs. Cork floors are less likely to obtain damage from insects, especially termites, which make them ideal in areas where these types of insects are prevalent.

Cork floors are constructed from Mediterranean cork oak tree bark that is painted with a special varnish that helps to protect it from sunlight, dust and moisture. It is important to make sure that special maintenance practices are used on the cork flooring to keep it in the best possible condition so that you can get the most life out of it. These maintenance practices include:

Dirt and debris should be swept from the cork flooring surface daily using a soft bristled brook so that the surface of the floor is not scratched. In heavily traveled areas of the floor this should be done several times a day.

Electric floor polishers can be used on the floors if there is a soft bristle attachment that can be used.

Liquid spills should be wiped away as soon as they occur so that stains are avoided. If plants are placed on the cork floors there should be drip trays placed under them to avoid any type of stains from occurring.

Rugs and mats that are placed on the flooring should be constructed of a breathable material to prevent moisture from getting trapped underneath of them.

Every three years the cork floors should be refinished with a protective coating so that they keep their ability to resist water, insects and other damage. In between the protective coating applications you can use a liquid floor polish to wax the flooring surface.

Sunlight should be directed away from the cork flooring with the use of curtains and blinds to prevent fading from the sun's rays. If you do not have the ability to do this, you can use carpet or rugs to cover exposed areas of the flooring to help maintain the cork floor's original color.

Cork is a soft material, which is why many parents like this type of flooring when they have small children in their home. Furniture should never be drug across the cork flooring for this reason, as this can cause the floor to become damaged from scraping away the protective coating on the floor. Felt pads should also be placed on the legs of the furniture to prevent denting from occurring.