Why Cork Flooring is Growing in Popularity Among UK Homeowners
Not just a high-flying bottle stopper, cork is becoming an increasingly popular choice of flooring material. When it comes to cork flooring UK homeowners have been slowly but steadily falling in love with the sturdy but sustainable material, with many choosing to have cork floors laid for their organic and eco-friendly vibe. Here’s why cork is going off with a bang.
Sustainability
More than half (54%) of people looking for new materials to use in their home want to check their sustainability and environmental impact before buying. With so much information readily available, there’s no excuse for not even attempting to be eco-friendly anymore – in fact, for a lot of people, it’s a big concern when renovating and furnishing their homes. Sustainability could make the difference when deciding between building materials, and cork is a good example of that choice in action.
Cork is a natural material that can be harvested without killing the tree it comes from, as it is made from the bark, which can be gathered by hand. A single cork tree can be harvested from for over a hundred years, making it appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. It’s also biodegradable and recyclable, and therefore a flooring option with a very low environmental footprint.
Comfort
Cork has naturally sound-absorbing properties, making it a great choice for rooms that need a little extra sound insulation – it’s even used in recording studios. If cork flooring is laid in an apartment the owners can walk with more of a spring in their step, knowing that the sound won’t travel too loudly to their neighbours. It’s comfortable underfoot, too!
Acoustics aren’t the only thing that cork absorbs – it’s also a great thermal insulator, helping to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and potentially even lower energy bills through heating costs.
Durability
The fact that cork has a bit of give to it means it’s able to bounce back from lots of different kinds of compression without being damaged in the same way that tile or stone would. It’s naturally resistant to mould, mildew and pests, and can withstand heavy foot traffic without wearing down. This makes it a great choice for busy rooms that see a lot of action – such as stampeding children or scrabbling pets.
Aesthetic
Practicalities aside for a moment – cork has an enticingly warm and cosy texture that adds a laid-back organic atmosphere to a room. It comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, and can be laid in eye-catching configurations. Even with all of the other benefits, there’s no shame in opting for cork simply because you like the way that it looks – we do too.
Accessibility
Many cork products are designed for easy installation, meaning that choosing to have it fitted in your home won’t be time-consuming. It’s also far cheaper than hardwood, and will likely be an attractive investment for homeowners due to its many desirable properties. One such property is the fact that it is naturally hypoallergenic and can even help to enhance the air quality within your home – something that is invaluable to allergy sufferers.
Could cork be the answer?
If you feel that cork flooring may be what’s missing from your home, why not seek some expert advice? The Flooring Group offer a wide range of cork flooring options, and our team are always happy to help.