If you are lucky enough to have additional below-ground living space and you are thinking about renovation, cork is the ideal flooring for sub-ground level rooms. There are a few reasons homeowners go for cork when looking at flooring, which is outlined below:
- Natural Insulation - Perhaps the biggest benefit of cork flooring is its insulation properties, which are essential for any below-ground living space. Cork flooring comes in a wide range of colours and designs; choose a top-quality brand that is a little thicker than regular cork tiles and you won’t regret it.
- Sealed Cork Is Watertight - Once a cork floor has been installed, it will be coated with a sealant; that prevents liquid from damaging the cork. Any spills should be quickly wiped up; keep a kitchen roll handy for this. For the best seal, apply two coats and wait 4 hours before applying the second coat. The cork board flooring Sydney supplier also sells sealant and a range of backing materials. Find a flooring specialist near you through a quick online search and set aside some time to visit their showroom.
- Eco-Friendly - Cork bark is harvested every 9 years and no damage is done to the orchard, which makes cork the eco-friendly choice.
- Sound Insulation - You may not know that most recording studios have cork flooring, as the soft material does not reflect sound waves, rather it muffles and cancels out any echo. Add to that the fact that walking on cork is a silent experience and you have more than enough reason to choose eco-friendly cork for the basement floor.
- Antimicrobial & Hypoallergenic - The basement is where you are likely to find mould and mildew; cork is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic, making for a healthy material. If you would like to experience cork flooring in a real living environment, visit a flooring showroom near your location, and you will find the best brands of cork tiles and planks.
- Can Be Installed On Any Substrate - Cork can be laid with or without backing; just make sure you prepare the base floor correctly, removing any bumps and filling any hollows. If you use a special backing, this adds a bit of spring when you walk on the floor. In a basement, you might have to carry out damp-proofing prior to installing the floor. If you are self-installing, there are YouTube how-to videos that show you each stage of the installation. Make sure you have the necessary tools before you start work.
- Cork Is Affordable - When compared to hardwood, cork is very reasonable pricewise; that said, you should choose a top-quality product, which might cost a little more but the benefit is a more durable product. Measure up and visit a flooring showroom and a sales assistant can quote for your project, whether you prefer self-installation or a team to do the work.
Regardless of the style, cork is the best basement flooring for the above reasons, and with a sealant applied, your new cork floor will stand the test of time. Make sure to put down rubber furniture pads to protect the floor if you have heavy items.
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