During the process of floor decoration, an increasing number of homeowners are choosing cork flooring. Compared to solid wood flooring, cork offers a more comfortable feel underfoot, better anti-slip properties, and superior wear resistance along with eco-friendly performance. The natural texture and gentle touch of cork floors make them more appealing than other materials. However, how can you choose the right cork flooring? Here are some key tips to help you make an informed decision.
**1. "Three-Look" Method for Cork Flooring**
**First Look: Origin of the Cork**
Cork is a regional resource that only grows in a few countries on the western side of the Mediterranean Basin. While it may be possible to grow cork outside these regions, the quality of the bark is significantly different. For example, although cork can be cultivated in the Qinling Mountains of China, the thickness of the bark is only about one-third of that from Portugal, rarely exceeding five centimeters. Additionally, the elasticity, color, and overall quality differ greatly. This affects comfort, noise reduction, waterproofing, and insulation properties.
**Second Look: Appearance of the Floor**
Cork bark is classified into three grades (A, B, C) based on its thickness and color purity after harvesting. The price difference between each grade can be as high as 50%. As a natural product, cork may have small holes or imperfections on its surface, which do not affect usability and are even preferred by Westerners for their natural look. However, if the raw material quality is poor and the holes are too large, some manufacturers may use putty to fill them. This can cause problems over time, as the putty has a different density and may crack or pop out due to temperature changes, damaging the floor.
To check the base material, examine the particle size and black spots on the back of the floor. Fine particles and more black spots usually indicate waste materials from the bark surface. These can impact the softness and quietness of the floor. When selecting, look at the surface color—whiter surfaces with a slight natural tone typically indicate Grade A, while darker ones may be Grade B or C. Colored cork floors are an exception.
When choosing, first check if the sanded surface is smooth, free of bumps, and made of pure cork. Also, ensure the edges are straight. To test this, place four identical planks on a flat surface and see if they fit together properly.
**Third Look: MDF Quality**
The MDF used in cork flooring plays a crucial role. High-quality MDF is made from poplar and cypress, avoiding branches or dead wood. It goes through a bark peeling and washing process, resulting in high-density, environmentally friendly melamine-impregnated wood. The density can be seen from the cross-section.
Another important factor is the board’s density. Good MDF should have a density of at least 900 kg per cubic meter. Many products on the market vary greatly in expansion rate, water resistance, and density. You can judge the quality by weight—higher weight often indicates better density. Two other critical tests are formaldehyde emission and water absorption thickness expansion rate. Breaking the floor (not cutting it) allows you to see if the cross-section is white, uniform, and free of impurities. If it's dark or contains foreign materials, it may mean poor processing or inferior wood fiber.
**2. Smell Test**
Go to a store and get close to the surface of the cork floor. If it has a light, natural wood scent, it’s likely an eco-friendly product. On the other hand, a strong, pungent smell suggests the use of substandard adhesives or paints, which may not meet environmental standards and could be harmful.
**3. Feel the Floor**
Cork contains around 42 million tiny air cells per square meter, giving it excellent resilience. Walking on it feels very comfortable and provides good traction.
**4. Check Edge Straightness**
Take four identical planks and lay them on a flat surface like glass. When assembled, they should fit together seamlessly. Most reputable companies will ensure this during installation.
**5. Test Surface Bending Strength**
To test the strength, press the corners diagonally and check for cracks on the curved surface. If there are no cracks, it’s a good sign. Another way is to test the bonding strength, though this is less common for consumers.
If you're still unsure, consider consulting a professional or looking for certifications that guarantee quality and safety.
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