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Protection and Maintenance of Natural Cork Floors

 

1 - PROTECTION

 

 

 

For unfinished cork:  To protect the floor in areas subject to high traffic or risk of spillage, the manufacturer  strongly recommends sealing the floor after installation with one coat of a high quality water-based urethane.  Sealing the floor will prevent moisture penetration and eventual damage to the floor.  This step is strongly recommended for kitchens, bathrooms and hallways.


 

 Prevention      

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

  • Fine particles of dirt/grit act like sandpaper and will scratch the floor.  To minimize this hazard, vacuum or sweep as needed.
  • Spills should be wiped up immediately.
  • Use walk-off mats at entrance doors and in front of kitchen sinks.  Avoid rubber-backed or other non-ventilated mats or rugs.
  • In the kitchen, use a rug in front of working areas such as in front of the stove and sink to prevent localized premature wear.
  • Install proper protectors under "feet" of furniture.
  • Caster-wheeled chairs should have wide casters.
  • Periodically check floor for signs of wear.

 


 

Fading

 

 

 

Cork contains organic pigments.  Just like a wood floor, cork will fade and should never be exposed directly to sunlight.  Where possible, use drapes or other systems to protect your floor from excessive light.  Cork will yellow when fading.


 

Joints

 

 

 

Controlling the environment will minimize the effects that normal contraction and expansion will have on your floor.  This includes maintaining a comfortable room temperature and a relative humidity of around 50%. 



 

2 - MAINTENANCE

 

 

 

RESIDENTIAL ENVIRONMENT:  Sweep or vacuum floor frequently in order to avoid build-up of abrasive particles.  Use only floor cleaners made for prefinished hardwood.  When the floor starts to show a traffic pattern and signs of wear, it is time to recoat with a high quality water-based urethane.  This will prevent damage to the cork itself.

 

The longevity of the finish is relative to traffic intensity and quality of floor care.  Under normal conditions, the protective coating should last at least five years.  It is the responsibility of the owner to judge when the floor needs recoating.  Most cork decorative patterns are made of thin veneer laminated to a cork base.  Failure to maintain the finish could result in irreparable damage.  An application of urethane will make the floor look new again and prolong its lifespan.