Cork bathroom flooring: Choosing the right cork installation method
When it comes to flooring options, cork is making a significant impact in the world of interior design. Renowned for its natural beauty, eco-friendliness, and exceptional durability, cork flooring is becoming an increasingly popular choice among homeowners in the UK. In this article, we will delve into the many advantages of cork flooring for the bathroom, shedding light on why it deserves your attention as a sustainable and stylish option.
What actually is cork flooring?
Cork is derived from the bark of the cork oak tree, which is native to the Mediterranean region. The harvesting process involves stripping the bark without harming the tree, allowing it to regenerate and be harvested again in subsequent years. This sustainable practise makes cork flooring an environmentally friendly choice, as it contributes to the preservation of forests and promotes a healthier planet.
Cork flooring: Water-resistant?
Contrary to popular belief, cork flooring is naturally resistant to water and moisture, making it an excellent choice for bathrooms. The suberin, a waxy substance found in cork, acts as a protective barrier against water penetration, preventing mould growth. This inherent resistance to moisture ensures that your bathroom floor remains in excellent condition, even in high-humidity environments.
Click cork vs Glue-down cork
However, it is important to note, there are two types of cork flooring that we supply: click cork and glue-down cork. In the context of bathroom flooring, it is crucial to exercise caution as click cork is not suitable for this particular area. Instead, the recommended option is to opt for glue-down cork installation.
The limitations of click cork in bathrooms:
When it comes to bathroom flooring, it is important to understand why click cork is not the most suitable option. Cork flooring is crafted with a robust high-density fibreboard foundation, forming a sophisticated interlocking system that effortlessly assembles into a stunning floating floor. It's important to note that while this flooring option boasts exceptional qualities and is suitable for many other areas of the home. It does not possess waterproof properties, rendering it unsuitable for spaces prone to high moisture levels, such as bathrooms.
Opting for glue down-cork:
By choosing glue-down cork, you can ensure a bathroom flooring solution that is better equipped to withstand moisture, temperature changes, and heavy foot traffic. The adhesive creates a seamless and stable surface reducing the risk of gaps or buckling. This installation method provides a durable and long-lasting flooring solution that can withstand the demanding bathroom environment.
Recommendation of collections suitable for bathroom
To further enhance your bathroom with cork flooring, consider exploring different collections specifically designed for wet areas such as Granorte Tradition or Spectrum. Granorte offers a range of cork flooring options that are specifically engineered to provide exceptional water resistance and durability. Granorte Spectrum and Tradition are high-quality flooring options from Granorte, a renowned Portuguese company specialising in cork flooring production. These collections feature natural, earthy finishes. We recommend adding an additional layer of Lobadur Easyfinish Lacquer for additional protection.
Granorte Spectrum collection
Cork flooring offers remarkable qualities such as comfort, sound absorption, and hypoallergenic capabilities, making it an excellent choice for transforming your home. With its inherent insulating properties and wide range of colour options, cork presents a unique and exciting option for floor coverings. The Granorte Spectrum cork floor tiles are designed to ensure a hassle-free installation experience. These 300x300x4mm tiles come pre-varnished and ready to use, except for the 'Basic' colour option. What sets the Spectrum collection apart is its 10 unique designs, providing a modern yet classic look for your floors.
Granorte Tradition collection
Granorte's Tradition collection offers cork flooring that excels in durability, insulation, and style. The dense and resilient nature of cork allows it to withstand high foot traffic and impacts, while also being scratch, dent, and stain-resistant. Its natural resistance to mould and mildew makes it ideal for damp environments. With a variety of patterns and colours available, the Tradition collection ensures a stylish flooring solution. Additionally, cork's insulation properties help keep spaces warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing energy costs and enhancing comfort. The Granorte Tradition collection is a top choice for durable and visually appealing cork flooring. Dimensions of 600 x 300 x 4 mm, easy glue-down installation, and compatibility with high-traffic residential and moderate-traffic commercial areas.
How to install cork flooring?
While glue-down flooring is the recommended option for bathrooms and small rooms due to its ease of cutting and manipulation, it is important to note that it may not be the easiest type of flooring to install. Installing glue-down flooring requires the assistance of a professional and a range of accessories, including tools and adhesives. On the other hand, click cork offers a more straightforward installation process. With just a few essential tools, it becomes an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the right flooring for your bathroom and small rooms, it's important to consider both the ease of installation and the desired outcome. While glue-down flooring is the superior option in terms of durability and suitability for moist environments, it does require professional assistance and the use of additional tools and adhesive. On the other hand, click flooring offers a simpler installation process that DIY enthusiasts can handle, but it may not provide the same level of water resistance and long-term durability as glue-down flooring. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your skill level, preference, and the specific requirements of your space. Consulting with flooring experts can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your chosen flooring option meets your needs while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your bathroom and small rooms.