Top 5 Reasons to Choose Cork Flooring for Your Home
As more people seek sustainable design solutions for their homes, cork flooring continues to gain popularity. Our Cortejo range is a premium, eco-friendly alternative to traditional flooring options, crafted from the cork-rich forests of Portugal. Here are five key reasons homeowners are turning to it for greener interior design.
1. True Sustainability
Made almost entirely from the bark of the cork oak tree, native to Portugalâs Alentejo region, this flooring option is as green as it gets. But what really really sets cork apart from the alternatives is its unique harvesting process. The outer bark is carefully removed from the trunks of these ancient trees every nine years, without causing any harm. The trees then regenerate their bark ready for the next harvest.
The production of our Cortejo range also boasts a negative carbon balance, which is a rarity in todayâs manufacturing landscape. For every ton of cork produced, the cork oak forest retains an astonishing 73 tons of CO2, and when forced to regenerate its bark this number rate increases â actively combating global warming.
2. Health Benefits
When it comes to the health and well-being of your family, every choice matters. One place that is too often overlooked is the flooring in your home. Plenty of synthetic alternatives like carpeting and vinyl have a tendency to off-gas harmful substances into the air of your home, which over time can cause health complications in sensitive individuals.
Through rigorous testing, ensuring that all materials comply with industry-leading bodies such as Greenguard, our Cortejo cork flooring has earned its A+ rating for air quality. An A+ rating signifies low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and a safer, healthier option for your home, particularly if you have young children or pets who spend a lot of time close to the floor.
3. Durability and Versatility
When investing in new flooring, longevity and adaptability are key factors that homeowners consider, and Cortejo Cork excels in both these aspects. Its natural elasticity and dense composition make it one of the most shock-absorbent materials available, outshining many popular alternatives on the market.
This resilience is further enhanced by PVC-free protective coatings on every tile, offering additional resistance to water and wear, and setting up your cork floors for optimal use throughout your home. Its hardwearing and flexible nature makes it suitable for virtually any space, from the kitchen and living areas to bedrooms and even bathrooms.
Whether you require a cosy feel in your bedroom or a robust surface for your halls or entryways, Cortejo cork flooring adapts to your needs, making it one of the most versatile choices for modern homes.
4. Thermal and Acoustic Insulation
One of the lesser-known but highly beneficial features of cork flooring is its exceptional thermal insulation. Unlike traditional flooring options like ceramic tiles that can feel cold underfoot, or carpets that can become uncomfortably warm during the winter, cork maintains a pleasant temperature throughout the year.
Tests have also shown that Cortejo floors can actually reduce walking sounds by an impressive 53%, thanks to its insulating composition. This makes it a doubly beneficial choice for busy households, where both temperature and noise control are a concern. Cork flooring could help to lower energy bills and support a more peaceful home environment.
5. Ease of Installation and Maintenance
Ease of installation is a game-changer for anyone looking to replace the floors in their home, and our Cortejo Cork tiles take the hassle out of this process with their innovative 2G glueless locking system. This feature allows for quick and straightforward installation, either floated over existing subfloors or fully bonded to suit your preference, making it an ideal choice for those considering a DIY approach.
Our cork flooring has also been designed for effortless upkeep, with a durable surface that is easy to clean, requiring just a simple sweep or mop to keep it looking its best. And for those with underfloor heating in their home, you will be pleased to know that Cortejo Cork is fully compatible with most modern systems, both wet and dry.
Work Cork Flooring Into Your Renovation Plan
Consider making the switch to Cortejo and enjoy unparalleled sustainability, cleaner air, easy installation, and flooring made to last. Browse our full range to discover the perfect match for your interior, or order a free sample today to experience the quality and comfort of Cortejo Cork for yourself.
FAQs
Is cork flooring durable enough for high-traffic areas?
Yes, corkâs natural elasticity and dense composition make it highly durable and shock-absorbent, priming it for high-traffic areas in your home such as hallways and landings. Our Cortejo cork floors are also rated for commercial use.
Can cork flooring be used in bathrooms and kitchens?
Cork flooring is water-resistant but not entirely waterproof, so while it is suitable for kitchens in bathrooms youâll need to monitor moisture levels and make sure any spills are mopped up immediately. This will preserve the protective coating on each tile and prevent water damage.
Can cork flooring be refinished?
No, your cork flooring cannot be refinished, but thanks to its 2G click-and-lock joints, you can easily remove worn tiles and slip in replacements without the need for an entire overhaul or lengthy refinishing process.
How do I clean and maintain my cork floor?
Cork flooring is easy to maintain. A simple sweep or mop is usually sufficient to keep it clean. Itâs important to always use a pH-balanced floor cleaner specifically designed for cork or hardwood floors. We offer a range of approved cleaners on our website.