Cork floor fitting experts in London
Cork flooring is a product made from the bark of the cork oak tree, a natural product which has been put into production to produce tiles that serve as flooring for offices and homes. It offers something outside the ordinary and is gaining popularity as an alterrnative to wood, tiled and hard floors.
Why install a cork floor?Cork floor is a natural substance and eco-friendly product. It's soft uinderfoot, durable if it mis well maintained mand very beautiful. It provides a unique look foir any living and working space. Like all floors it needs laying carefully and properly so it fits and lasts. We have fitted many, many cork floors at Cavendoish deVere, we were one of the first companies in the UK to supply and install Granorte cork flooring poroducts and we have many years of experience. |
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Why choose Cavendish deVere for your cork flooring
Because we are experts and have fitted corkflooring for the very best and most demanding companies and clients in London. We can offer you free advice on installation and free quotations. We are well known as a high-end, high quality commercial flooring contractor and often the preferred choice for many blue-chip companies where excellence is paramount. |
Why you might not choose Cavendish deVere for your cork flooring
We are not suited for low cost, large public sector projects. There are other companies better suited for that kind of work. Mostly, we are invited to tender for homes, private schools, private members clubs, embassies, boutique restaurants and hotels or where the installation might be highly technical, complex and the finish of the floor is paramount. |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cork Flooring
How is cork flooring fitted and installed?
Cork flooring can be installed using three main methods depending on the product type:
Glue-Down Installation: This is the most common method for cork tiles. The cork tiles are adhered directly to the subfloor using a special water-based cork flooring adhesive. This method provides excellent stability and is ideal for high-traffic areas. The subfloor must be perfectly clean, level, and dry before installation begins.
Floating Installation: Cork planks with tongue-and-groove edges can be installed as a floating floor over underlay. The planks click together and "float" over the subfloor without being glued down. This method is faster to install and easier to remove if needed.
Click-Lock Installation: Some modern cork products feature a click-lock system similar to laminate flooring, making installation straightforward for DIY enthusiasts, though professional fitting ensures the best results.
What preparation is needed before fitting cork flooring?
Proper preparation is essential for a successful cork floor installation:
Subfloor Requirements: The subfloor must be clean, dry, level, and structurally sound. Concrete subfloors should be tested for moisture content and treated with a damp-proof membrane if necessary. Wooden subfloors should be stable with no movement or squeaking.
Levelling: Any irregularities must be corrected using levelling compound. Cork flooring requires a very flat surface – typically within 3mm over 3 metres.
Acclimatisation: Cork flooring must acclimatise to the room's temperature and humidity for at least 48 hours before installation. The boxes should be opened and laid flat in the room where they will be installed. The room temperature should be between 18-25°C with relative humidity of 35-65%.
How do I maintain and clean my cork floor?
Cork flooring is relatively easy to maintain when properly cared for:
Daily Maintenance: Sweep or vacuum regularly using a soft brush attachment to remove dirt and grit that can scratch the surface. Use doormats at entrances to minimise dirt being tracked onto the floor.
Weekly Cleaning: Damp mop with a well-wrung mop using a pH-neutral cork floor cleaner. Never saturate the floor with water as excessive moisture can damage cork. Wipe up spills immediately.
What to Avoid: Never use abrasive cleaners, wax-based products, ammonia-based cleaners, or steam cleaners on cork flooring. Avoid dragging heavy furniture across the floor – use furniture pads and lift items when moving them.
Furniture Protection: Use felt pads under furniture legs and use protective mats under office chairs with casters. This prevents indentations and surface damage.
What top coats are available for cork flooring?
Cork flooring is typically supplied with a factory-applied finish, but additional protective coatings can be applied:
Pre-Finished Cork: Most modern cork flooring comes with multiple layers of factory-applied polyurethane or UV-cured acrylic finish. These pre-finished products typically have 3-7 coats of protective sealant and are ready to walk on immediately after installation.
Water-Based Polyurethane: The most popular finish for cork, offering excellent durability and protection. Available in gloss, semi-gloss, satin, and matt finishes. Water-based formulas have low VOCs and dry quickly.
Oil-Based Polyurethane: Provides a warm amber tone and extremely durable finish, though it takes longer to dry and has stronger odours during application.
Wax Finishes: Traditional approach offering a soft, natural look. Wax needs more frequent maintenance but can be spot-repaired easily. Not recommended for high-traffic commercial areas.
Ceramic Coating: Some premium cork products feature advanced ceramic-enhanced finishes providing superior scratch and wear resistance.
Can I apply additional top coats to existing cork flooring?
Yes, cork flooring can be resealed and refinished to restore its appearance and protection:
When to Reseal: Cork floors should be resealed every 3-7 years depending on traffic levels. Signs that resealing is needed include dullness, visible wear patterns, or water no longer beading on the surface.
Resealing Process: The floor must be thoroughly cleaned and lightly abraded with fine sandpaper or a buffing machine to help the new finish adhere. After removing all dust, apply 2-3 thin coats of polyurethane or the manufacturer's recommended finish, allowing proper drying time between coats.
Professional Application: While DIY resealing is possible, professional application ensures even coverage, proper product selection, and optimal results. Our team at Cavendish deVere can advise on the best maintenance schedule and refinishing options for your cork floor.
How durable is cork flooring with proper maintenance?
With correct installation and regular maintenance, cork flooring is remarkably durable. The natural elasticity of cork allows it to recover from compression, making it resistant to denting. Properly sealed and maintained cork floors can last 25-30 years or more. The key is maintaining the protective top coat which shields the cork from moisture and wear. Regular cleaning and periodic resealing will keep your cork floor looking beautiful for decades.
Is cork flooring suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?
Cork flooring can be installed in kitchens and bathrooms provided it has a proper waterproof sealant and is correctly maintained. The top coat must be intact with no gaps or damage. However, cork should not be installed in areas with constant standing water or high moisture exposure. In bathrooms, ensure excellent ventilation and wipe up water splashes immediately. For peace of mind in wet areas, some clients prefer cork in powder rooms and utility areas rather than main bathrooms.
What products does Cavendish deVere recommend for cork floor care?
We recommend manufacturer-specific cleaning products designed for cork flooring. Brands like Granorte, Wicanders, and Corkcomfort all produce specialised cork floor cleaners and maintenance kits. These pH-neutral formulations clean effectively without damaging the protective finish. We can supply these products directly or advise you where to source them. Our installation service includes detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your specific cork flooring product.
Cork Floor Installation Service Areas in LondonPremium Central London Areas
North London Cork Flooring Services
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East London Cork Flooring Specialists
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