Why Use Cork?

• Cork provides the most functional, beautiful flooring available that combines functionality, ease of maintenance, beauty, and environmental sensitivity together.

• If properly maintained, cork flooring can last for over 80 years, even under high traffic.

• Expanko Cork flooring can be purchased with factory applied polyurethane or wax finishes which are extremely durable and resistant to scratches and gouges.

• Because of cork’s natural resilience, it tends to give if materials are dropped or moved across it, whereas, hard flooring surfaces will scratch or gouge.

• Cork flooring is extremely dense and is resistant to many chemicals that can degrade floor materials.

• Regular damp mopping with a well wrung out mop and mild soap (Ivory Liquid) is all that is necessary to maintain your cork floor. Cork is not easily stained, therefore; it does not require scrubbing or use of harsh cleaners.

• Both waxed and polyurethane finished tiles can be refinished many times during the life of the floor.

• Any experienced homeowner or hardwood flooring Refinisher/Installer can refinish cork.
  

• The life of the finish directly relates to the care given to the floor. Polyurethane finish can last up to 10 years in a residential installation if properly maintained.

• Polyurethane is an extremely durable surface; however, it will wear if gravel and dirt is not regularly cleaned from the floor.

• Wax is also a very durable finish, however, it does require periodical paste wax application and buffing. Paste wax application every 12 months is typical for properly maintained residential installations.

• Cork is installed onto a smooth level sub-floor using Expanko 2260, water based, zero VOC adhesive. This is an easy to use, one application, trowel on adhesive. (After the tiles are laid, they must be rolled with a 100 lb., 12 inch wide roller.)

• The cork floor will be ready for regular use 72 hours after installation.

• Any experienced flooring installer who is comfortable with hardwood and/or ceramic tile installation.

• Above grade - Concrete or plywood.

• Cork should not be installed below grade unless sub-floor moisture emission is less than 3 lbs./1000 ft./24 hours.

• Cork floors should not be laid over flooring surfaces including hardwood, vinyl, carpet, stone, and ceramic tile.

• Tiles are shaded through our unique baking process. No dyes or stains are used.

• Darker shades are baked for longer periods of time and at higher temperatures than the light shades.

• Yes, cork will fade when subjected to UV rays. Window treatments are recommended.