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Why Should You Consider Using Cork Tiles for Your Floor and Walls?

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Zoe Scarlet

1. What Properties Do the Cork Tiles Have?

Cork tiles are very popular nowadays. More and more people are using them for floors and walls. They became popular because of the natural characteristics that cork carries and brings to any home of commercial space. By using cork wall tiles you can get these benefits not only for your floor but also for your walls. The characteristics of cork tiles are:

- Antimicrobial. Studies have shown that cork naturally carries antimicrobial proprieties. This means that many of the microbes present in your house will find no purchase in cork to grow. Mold and mildew is eradicated in a cork floor. This will make your house a healthier environment.

- Softer. The genetic structure of cork is made up of airtight cells. These cells allow cork to have a ‘give’ to it that makes it softer to the touch. Cork then has a ‘cushion’ to it that most other alternatives don’t. Underfoot a cork floor will be softer and supportive. Falling on this type of floor will cause less harm than falling on other floors.

- Noise reduction. Another advantage offered by cork material is the ability to inhibit the transfer of sound waves. Cork can absorb and disperse sound and reduce the noise produced from the contact it makes with other materials. Kids at play, and noise from other rooms are tuned down for a quieter more relaxing place.

- Temperature insulator. Cork also acts as a thermal insulator, so the ambient temperature you set in a cork enclosed space will last longer and will not leech out. Cork is naturally warm to the touch, so a cork floor will never be chilly on a cold winter’s morning.

2. How Can You Install the Tiles of Your Floor?

The process of installing a cork floor can be labor intensive or as easy as a weekend DIY project. That is dependent on what style of floor you want. Cork comes in 2 types; floating cork floors or glue-down cork floors. Choose the one that best fits your needs. However, do keep in mind that there are some basics that apply to both when it comes to installation. 
- Clean the subfloor. Obviously, the first step is to properly clean the subfloor. This is very important because without this step the installation will not be made properly and it will reduce the lifespan of the floor.

- Acclimate the cork product to your space. Be sure to read and follow directions on the packaging. If there is none, check with the seller’s website or representative first. Most flooring needs to acclimate with its new environment before it can be opened or installed.

- Be sure to follow the instructions or seller recommendations. Make sure that you have all the required tools ready and you perfectly understand the installation process before you start install. If you have any questions and concerns contact the seller or seller’s agent before you start the install. Mistakes here can be costly, especially if you chose the glue-down tile flooring type. Even professional flooring contractors can make mistakes, especially if they are not experienced with cork flooring, so ask questions first.

3. How Can You Install Cork Wall Tiles?

The installment of the cork wall tiles can be said to be more complicated. The 5 step below is a general guide to help you install everything properly:

1. Check the surface. Keep in mind that the surface must be drywall or plywood that has a smooth surface. Cork wall panels cannot go over paint or wallpaper. If paint is present then primer must be applied before the cork panel can be attached. Also, make sure that the wall is clean and there is nothing that will be between the wall and the tiles.

2. Layout. Once the panels have acclimated to the space, take the them out of the packages and check them for any damage. Create the layout that you like as it will go up on the wall.

3. Adhesive. Be sure to use the correct adhesive, one that is compatible with the type of cork walling panels you have purchased. The seller should be able to recommend the best fit for their product. The wrong adhesive can and will fail or destroy your new panels, so this is an important step. Apply the adhesive on the wall per directions, cork tiles. Be sure to read all applicable instructions before you begin install.

4. Install. Now you can start installing the cork wall tiles. To make sure that every tile is fixed properly you can use a rubber mallet to tap them into place. It is important to remember that their position will become permanent, so figure out your desired layout before you begin installation.

4. Why It Might Be Best For Professionals To Do The Install?



Not sure if you should do the install yourself or to let a team of professionals to do this for you, then below are 2 reasons for you to consider:

- Skill. A team of skilled professionals will be able to finish the project faster and with greater efficiency than you. This will reduce the time in which your house needs to be kept in renovation.

- Experience. With the experience that a professional cork walling installer has, he/she or they will have insights that you do not have. This will allow them to increase the quality or outcome of the project. So, even if you have to pay for the work done, the results that you will obtain will ensure that the money is well spent.

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Zoe Scarlet
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