It’s a fact that homeowners are looking to green home decor solutions for inspiration today. Not only are the number of available options increasing, but there are also more affordable options that offer incredible value for money. One such option is cork flooring. Sustainable, beautiful and very comfortable, cork flooring is becoming popular with homeowners and renters alike for a variety of reasons, not least of which is because it is incredibly hard wearing and a cheaper alternative to other traditional wood flooring options.
Cork is undoubtedly a sustainable form of flooring because it comes from the Cork Oak, the only tree that can regenerate after the removal of its bark. As such, there is no need to chop trees down to make it. Trees can remain standing and can oftentimes be harvested again in ten years without inflicting damage. However, this amazing fact is by no means the only benefit of cork floors, others include:
- Cork flooring is particularly durable. It is not the same type of cork as that used in wine bottles, which chips away easily and is relatively soft. Cork flooring is incredibly tough, does not wear easily and can actually take heavy traffic over a sustained period of time. If maintained well, there is no reason why it cannot last in excess of fifty years.
- Unlike other types of wood flooring, cork floors are actually resistant to fungus, mold and mildew so it will not degrade easily. It is also hypoallergenic and thus is ideal for homeowners with pets and children.
- Cushion for your feet. Most wood floors do not give but cork flooring is different. It is comfortable for those walking on it barefoot and gives a little to cushion your steps, which is actually a strange but lovely sensation.
- In keeping with its eco-friendly makeup, cork can help you save on your heating bills. It insulates any room well and resists temperature fluctuations so it remains a comfortable temperature all year round.
- Cork flooring does not require any special DIY knowledge because the tiles or planks are very easy to install
Although many individuals still choose to go for traditional wood flooring, more and more experts are beginning to recognize the value of cork floors and so are actively recommending them to homeowners. It is actively considered to be an upgrade on other flooring types because of the advantages outlined above and the fact that it is just a affordable as other types of flooring, if not more so. For example, it is more sustainable than bamboo and yet not as expensive. Furthermore, it comes in a variety of colors and is not limited by the use of an individual room – it can be suitable for all rooms in the home.
In short, cork floors give you a fantastic option that checks all the boxes at once. No trees have to be cut down to create it and it can last for years. As a durable, healthy, affordable and comfortable choice, it offers every member of your household significant advantages. It also ups the value of your home so it is an all round winner.
This article has been written by Dylan Taft, an experienced Hudson Valley real estate professional, working in home sales and purchases. You can visit Dylan’s website for more information on property taxes, and details on the Ulster County real estate area.
Keith Munsell 
