Environmentally Friendly Flooring Materials
August 4, 2017
When considering flooring options, most Ottawa homeowners immediately think of hardwood, laminate, or vinyl. However, there’s another material that offers a unique blend of sustainability, comfort, and contemporary style: cork flooring. Far from just a bulletin board material, modern cork flooring has evolved into a sophisticated and highly functional choice for a variety of spaces.
What Exactly is Cork Flooring?
Cork flooring is made from the bark of the cork oak tree, primarily found in the Mediterranean region. What makes it incredibly sustainable is that the bark can be harvested every 9-10 years without harming the tree, allowing it to regenerate. The harvested bark is ground into granules, compressed, and then baked with resins to form sheets, which are then cut into tiles or planks. This natural, renewable resource offers a host of benefits that are perfect for Ottawa homes.
The Undeniable Benefits of Cork Flooring
Choosing cork flooring for your home offers a unique set of advantages:
- Exceptional Comfort Underfoot: Cork has millions of tiny air cells, making it incredibly soft and resilient. This provides a comfortable, cushioned feel that’s easy on joints and feet, a welcome relief after a long day.
- Natural Insulation & Energy Efficiency: Those same air cells that provide comfort also make cork a fantastic thermal insulator. It helps keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, potentially contributing to lower energy bills in Ottawa’s varied climate.
- Superior Sound Dampening: Cork’s cellular structure acts as a natural sound absorber, significantly reducing impact noise (like footsteps) and ambient sound. This makes it an excellent choice for multi-story homes, condos, or any space where noise reduction is desired.
- Hypoallergenic & Healthy Home: Cork is naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and pests. Its non-toxic properties and inability to trap dust or allergens contribute to improved indoor air quality, making it a great option for allergy sufferers.
- Durability and Resilience: Don’t let its softness fool you. Cork flooring is surprisingly durable. Its elastic nature allows it to “bounce back” from impressions, resisting dents from furniture better than many hardwoods. The wear layer also protects against scratches and scuffs.
- Eco-Friendly & Sustainable: As a rapidly renewable resource, cork flooring is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners. Its production has a low environmental impact, making it a truly “green” flooring option.
- Easy Maintenance: Cork flooring is relatively easy to clean, typically requiring just regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional damp mopping with a mild cleaner.
Modern Uses and Aesthetic Appeal
Today’s cork flooring goes far beyond its traditional appearance. Advances in manufacturing mean you can find cork in a vast array of colors, patterns, and textures, many designed to mimic the look of wood, stone, or concrete. This versatility allows cork to fit seamlessly into various design aesthetics:
- Contemporary & Minimalist: Sleek, lighter-toned cork can provide a warm yet uncluttered foundation.
- Mid-Century Modern: Its natural textures and earthy tones complement this popular style perfectly.
- Traditional & Rustic: Richer, darker cork can add warmth and character, akin to classic wood.
- Kitchens & Basements: With proper sealing and installation (especially with water-resistant options), cork’s moisture resistance makes it a viable and comfortable choice for these areas.
- Bedrooms & Playrooms: The inherent softness, warmth, and sound-dampening qualities make it ideal for private and recreational spaces.
Is Cork Flooring Right for Your Ottawa Home?
If you’re seeking a flooring solution that combines natural beauty, exceptional comfort, acoustic benefits, and a strong commitment to sustainability, cork flooring from Continental Flooring deserves your serious consideration. It’s an investment that not only enhances the value of your Ottawa home but also creates a uniquely serene and comfortable living environment.
Ready to explore the possibilities of cork flooring? Contact Continental Flooring today for a free consultation and discover how this remarkable material can transform your Ottawa home.
