Is Cork Flooring Durable?

Q. Are cork floors as durable, and will they last as long, as hardwood floors?

A. As you begin to look for new floors, you might have been thinking to consider cork flooring as an alternative to the hardwood floors. Many homeowners are curious about the durability and long lasting power of the cork floors over hardwood.

Durability Comparison

When it comes to durability, most people will assume hardwood to be superior to cork. But this may not be the case always. Depending on the wood you choose, hardwood can become very prone to liquid damages, scratches and dents. If you choose an expensive species of hardwood, you might face very little problems with damage. On the other hand, if you choose an average hardwood floor, the scratches and dents might occur more frequently.

That being said, cork has a cellular structure that makes it extremely comfortable, long-lasting as well as durable. The cellular structure of the cork has an ability to soak impacts and compress up to forty percent and still come back to its original shape without any damage. Moreover, the wax-like substance known as Suberin occurs naturally in cork and makes it resistant to mold, water, mildew and pests.

Durability also depends on the installation and surface finish of the floor you choose.

Life comparison

Every homeowner looks for a flooring that is durable and will last for a long time. Cork floors are higher in durability in comparison to real wood floors and also have a longer life. With a little maintenance, cork flooring can look very good. Its durability stands the tests of time. Being hypoallergenic, cork flooring is extremely resistant to mold and mildew, which makes it an ideal choice for people living in the home.

There are many choices when it comes to flooring, and it’s up to the homeowners to make the right choice. Research your options and keep in mind the great qualities and availability of cork flooring that resembles hardwood.