Maintenance: : Cork

With some TLC, you can enjoy the extraordinary beauty and comfort of cork flooring for many years to come. Sweep or vacuum it frequently in order to avoid build-up of abrasive particles. Use only floor cleaners for pre-finished hardwood available from your local retailer or home center. Wet maintenance is absolutely prohibited. When the floor starts to show traffic patterns and signs of wear, the surface must be recoated with a high quality water base urethane to prevent damage to the cork. 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 5 years. It is the responsibility of the owner to judge when the floor needs recoating. Most cork decorative patterns are made of a thin veneer laminated to a cork base. Failure to maintain the finish could result in irreparable damage. A new application of urethane will make the floor look new again and prolong its lifespan.

Fading – Cork contains organic pigments. 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 – Maintaining an adequate temperature and appropriate relative humidity will minimize contraction and expansion of your floor.

• Maintain a minimum humidity of 50% to 60% in the room.
• Vacuum and sweep as needed to help eliminate fine particles of dirt/grit that act like sandpaper and will scratch any floor.
• Wipe up spills immediately.
• Use walk-off mats at entrance doors and in front of kitchen sink. Avoid rubber backed and other non-ventilated mats or rugs.
• Use a rug in front of working areas in the kitchen such as at the stove and sink to prevent local premature wear.
• Install proper protectors under furniture legs.
• Use caster-wheeled chairs with wide casters and a protective mat under office chairs.
• Periodically check floors for signs of wear.