An extremely unique material, in both its construction and aesthetic, cork is a wonderful flooring surface – one gradually gaining in the popularity stakes too.
Despite this growing fondness, many are unaware of how cork flooring is actually constructed.
Though the structure will vary depending on the manufacturer, cork flooring is generally made up of five different layers – each playing a crucial role.
The wear surface will ensure the cork is protected, but without sacrificing the fantastic texture that it possesses. Either applied in the field or during the factory production process and drying clear, the wear surface is usually formed of a hardened UV varnish, oil or another form of sealant.
A Cork Bark veneer layer is the layer that provides the aesthetic beauty. The variances found in cork tree bark ensure that the patterns and textures found in this layer are always somewhat unique.
The Cork Core is a centre layer that provides the extra insulation the material is so renowned for, as well acting as an impact absorbent.
Cork flooring's stabilizing core is usually made from MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) or HDF (High Density Fibreboard). It is constructed with specially designed edges that allow neighboring panels to easily lock in an interlocking system.
Finally a cork underlayment layer provides a basic level of acoustic insulation. Sometimes it may be found separately, but generally it is a key part of a floating cork flooring panel.
The latest flooring news, courtesy of Floors Online.
Date : 08/09/2011
Category: Flooring Industry News