The use of cork in the home wherever you are in the world has seen a major revival, as more and more homeowners want to bring nature into their living space, with either cork flooring or wall tiles. To look at, you might think cork wall tiles look identical to their flooring counterparts, yet there are differences, which we look at in this short article.
Cork Wall Tiles
These are typically thinner than floor tiles and they are not as durable so a less dense bamboo would be used for wall tiles. Cork is great for acoustics and many recording studios have cork walls for that very reason, while others simply like to be close to nature by having cork walls. Much like floor tiles, there are endless designs and finishes, just as you have with natural cork. Unlike floor tiles, wall mounted tiles are not really subjected to any wear and tear and they do not need to be sealed. A special adhesive is used that makes removing the tiles easy, should you ever wish to change the decor.
Cork Flooring
Typically, cork flooring comes in square tile form or a plank format, similar to hardwood. Both are easy to install, with the planks having staggered joints, much like brickwork and there might need to be an underlay, depending on the substrate. Those looking for durable cork tiles Melbourne or their city has can easily find a timber floor supplier near them through a quick search through Google. Most leading stores have these in stock and are offered in an extensive range of tiles for walls and flooring. Once installed, a coat of polyurethane is applied (perhaps two) to make the floor water-resistant. This is not usually needed for wall tiles, as they are not subject to wear and tear, yet if you want the sheen, then you can coat the wall.
Cork Flooring Care
Once the tiles or boards have been installed, a special sealant is applied to make the floor watertight. This would usually be polyurethane, which provides a good seal. That said, any liquids should be quickly removed using tissue paper, as it could seep into the cork. You should sweep the floor daily with a soft brush, making sure to remove all residue to prevent scratching. Once a week, mop the floor using a solution of 1 part vinegar to 4 parts water and make sure you rinse the mop out thoroughly prior to mopping the floor. Damp, rather than wet, with long strokes up and down and to the side, rinsing frequently as you progress across the floor.
Professional Installation
Unless you happen to be a floor installer, we recommend you leave it to the professionals; first they prepare the substrate, which might need underlay and working methodically, the floor is completed and then sealed with polyurethane.
You could have cork flooring and walls, which would make for an interesting combination, while for residential flooring there’s little to beat cork. Take a trip to your local timber flooring showroom and see what they have on offer; expert help is available and, of course, installation services.