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Corky-Facts
Cork comes from the bark of the Cork Oak tree, which is not harmed in any way
during the harvest of the cork bark. Cork forests cover 5.4 million acres around the world, and is the only 'Wood'
product that when harvested does not contribute to deforestation. The Cork oak trees live approximately 150 to 200 years. The cork bark must age for approximately 3 to 6 months before it is cleaned and
prepared for production. The different 'natural' colors of cork are achieved by baking the cork at varying
temperatures. Colors such as blues, reds, and greens are stains, which are applied
prior to the application of UV acrylic varnish. Because of the natural gains of cork, no two tiles or planks will every look-alike. Inside every cubic inch of cork there are over 100-million honeycomb air-filled
cells. It is these air cells that give cork it insulating quality and what makes
it resilient. Cork has an insulating factor of approximately R-2.8 per inch. Cork is the only 'natural' hypoallergenic material that also resists mold, mildew,
and bacteria growth. Cork is a natural fire retardant. Approximately 50% of cork is air, which is why cork feels warm to the touch.
This is because cork absorbs your body heat and reflects it back to you. Cork was first used in the United States in 1890 in the First Congressional Church
in Chicago. In 1927, 2.9 million square feet of cork flooring was sold in the United States.
Perhaps, this was more information than you wanted to know about cork. However,
cork is the only flooring material that has so many benefits to offer. In addition
to its insulating properties, and its resistance to mold, moisture, termites, and
fire, cork also looks beautiful.
, Simply Cork Flooring.com |
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