vancouver Cork Flooring

We offer our services in most of the Lower Mainland. Our exact areas of coverage in British Columbia are as follows:

• Vancouver
• North Vancouver
• West Vancouver
• Burnaby
• Coquitlam
• Port Coquitlam
• Richmond
• Squamish
• Whistler
• Sechelt
• Gibsons
• Delta
• Surrey
• Anmore
• Port moody
• Maple Ridge
• New Westminster
• White Rock
• Surrey
• Delta

Cork can curl up in a room floods, causing tiles to pop out of place and boards to bend. This is especially true of traditional or less expensive cork flooring. Torlys, for example, offers a Uniclic® locking mechanism that can keep water on top for days after a flood.

Absolutely! Quality cork flooring can last up to 50 years or more.

Absolutely! Quality cork flooring can last up to 50 years or more.

Our most recommended brands are Wicanders, Torlys and Eurocork. Torlys offers an attached anti-fungal cork underlay for their line of products. This Microban underlay will help against mould and mildew.

• Quiet (noise reduction)
• Comfortable (most comfortable type of flooring after carpet when you’re bare feet)
• Healthy and sustainable (a completely renewable resource harvested from living cork trees)
• Warm
• Anti-slip
• Easy installation
• Durability

Yes, cork is a type of natural wood, and cork floor is technically engineered hardwood. In a sense, cork flooring is a sustainable kind of engineered hardwood.

Cork floors usually are floated. This makes cork flooring installation super fast and easy.

Cork can be installed almost anywhere but in full bathrooms. This includes basements, hallways, bedrooms, family rooms, dining rooms and kitchens.

Resourceful Websites About Cork Flooring

Wicanders – Explore a wide range of cork flooring options and learn about the benefits of cork.

Cork Flooring Reviews – Read reviews, comparisons, and buyer’s guides for cork flooring products.

Bob Vila – Find informative articles on cork flooring installation and maintenance.

HGTV Canada – Get design ideas and tips for incorporating cork flooring into your Vancouver home.

Floor Daily – Stay updated on industry news and trends, including cork flooring innovations.

Apartment Therapy – Discover creative uses of cork flooring in small spaces and apartments.

This Old House – Access DIY guides and videos for cork flooring installation and repairs.

BuildDirect – Shop for cork flooring products and explore installation guides.

Flooring Canada – Find a local Vancouver flooring store specializing in cork flooring.

Treehugger – Learn about the sustainability and eco-friendliness of cork flooring materials.

Industry Associations: 

BC Floor Covering Association

National Wood Flooring Association

Vancouver Cork Flooring Guide: A Sustainable Choice for Every Home 

Cork flooring in Vancouver is an optimal choice for homeowners seeking sustainability without sacrificing style or comfort. This innovative flooring option, combining natural beauty and practical benefits, aligns perfectly with the city’s environmentally conscious ethos.

The environmental advantages of cork flooring are compelling; sourced from the regenerative bark of cork oak trees, it is a renewable and biodegradable resource that appeals to eco-friendly consumers. Cork flooring offers superior durability and resilience, ensuring cork floors can last and reducing the need for frequent replacements, thereby reducing waste.

Its natural thermal and acoustic insulation properties also enhance the living spaces of Vancouver homes, making it both a practical and popular choice in the city’s flooring market. With its ecological benefits and functional attributes, Vancouver cork flooring stands out as a sustainable, stylish solution for modern living environments.

What is Cork Flooring and Why Choose It for Your Vancouver Home?

Cork flooring offers a unique blend of functionality and sustainability, making it a superior choice for Vancouver homes. Renowned for its eco-friendliness and distinctive comfort, this material is more than just a flooring option; it’s a lifestyle choice that aligns with the environmental values prevalent in Vancouver.

Why Choose Cork Flooring for Your Vancouver Home?

• Sustainable Source: Cork is harvested from the cork oak tree’s bark, which regenerates, making it a renewable resource. This practice does not harm the tree, supporting sustainable forestry practices critical to environmental stewardship.
• Comfort and Cushioning: Cork’s cellular structure naturally cushions it, providing comfort underfoot. This makes it particularly appealing for homes, reducing fatigue and offering a softer surface.
• Thermal Insulation: Cork floors naturally insulate homes, maintaining warmth in the winter and coolness in the summer. This can lead to significant energy savings, a key consideration in Vancouver’s varied climate.
• Acoustic Properties: Its sound-dampening qualities make cork an excellent choice for reducing noise in multi-level homes or apartments, promoting a quieter and more peaceful living environment.
• Health Benefits: Cork is naturally resistant to mould, mildew, and allergens. Its anti-microbial properties make it an excellent choice for Vancouver homeowners concerned with indoor air quality.
• Versatility in Design: Available in a variety of finishes and colours, cork flooring can seamlessly integrate into any decor style, from modern to traditional, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home without environmental compromise.

As we further explore the many benefits of cork flooring, it becomes clear why this choice is not just about improving the look of your home but also about making a positive impact on the environment and your quality of life.

Environmental Benefits of Cork Flooring in Vancouver

Cork flooring presents a compelling environmental case when compared with traditional concrete options, particularly within the context of Vancouver’s strong commitment to sustainability. A detailed life-cycle analysis (LCA) sheds light on the relative impacts of these materials, emphasizing cork’s lower global warming potential in the Vancouver setting.

The LCA conducted on the environmental impact of flooring materials in Vancouver reveals that cork-based systems, integrated with cross-laminated timber (CLT), exhibit a 25% lower global warming potential (GWP) than their concrete counterparts. This significant reduction in GWP is attributable to cork’s renewable nature and the energy-efficient processes involved in its production, a principle that guides many flooring installers and cork flooring store practices. In Vancouver, where environmental sustainability is a major community focus, cork trees naturally regenerate their bark after harvesting, allowing for a sustainable production cycle without depleting resources.

Further expanding on its environmental benefits, cork flooring contributes to more than just reduced emissions in Vancouver:

• Carbon Footprint Reduction: Vancouver’s cork forests are vital in carbon sequestration; they absorb millions of tons of CO2 annually. Utilizing cork in flooring ensures that these forests are economically viable, supporting their preservation and growth.
• Energy Efficiency: Cork’s inherent insulation properties reduce energy usage in Vancouver homes. It naturally maintains ambient temperatures, reducing the need for heating and air conditioning.
• Waste Reduction: During cork production in Vancouver, almost all parts of the harvested material are used to minimize waste, highlighting the efficiency of flooring installers in the region. Even cork dust is collected and used to generate energy in the manufacturing facilities.

This analysis highlights cork flooring as an environmentally superior choice, aligning perfectly with the ecological ethos of Vancouver and offering homeowners a sustainable option that actively contributes to a healthier planet.

How Is Cork Flooring Made?

Can Cork Floors Be Used in Kitchens and Bathrooms?

Yes, cork flooring is an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms in Vancouver homes, thanks to its water-resistant and antimicrobial properties. Specifically, the natural waxy substance called suberin makes cork inherently resistant to moisture, preventing water from penetrating the surface. This characteristic ensures that cork floors can withstand the humid and spill-prone environments of kitchens and bathrooms, rivalling the performance of traditional wood flooring in such settings.

For instance, in kitchens, cork flooring resists common spills like oils and wine, combining aesthetic appeal with practicality. Similarly, in bathrooms, cork provides a warm, soft surface underfoot, a stark contrast to traditional cold tile, making it a favoured choice for modern bathroom designs in the area. These examples highlight the cork’s versatility and suitability for high-moisture areas in the home.

What Styles and Finishes Are Available in Cork Flooring?

Cork flooring in Vancouver offers a diverse range of styles and finishes at any cork flooring store, making it a prime choice for environmentally friendly floor installation. This versatility ensures that cork can seamlessly integrate into any home environment, whether you’re aiming for a modern, rustic, or traditional look, similar to a hardwood floor but with unique benefits.

Colour Variations

Cork flooring is available in colours ranging from its natural honey-like tones to deeper hues achieved through staining. This variety allows homeowners to tailor their floors to complement their existing decor or provide a striking contrast, just like traditional hardwood floors.

Texture Options

Beyond colour, cork can be finished with different textures, from smooth surfaces that provide a refined look to textured treatments that mimic other natural materials like stone or wood. This adds depth and character to the space, enhancing the aesthetic appeal while remaining environmentally friendly.

Patterns and Finishes

Cork’s adaptability extends to its layout and finishing options, with choices of planks or tiles and finishes ranging from matte to glossy. Special treatments for enhanced water resistance make cork suitable for kitchen and bathroom installations, challenging areas for natural materials.

Innovative Designs

For those seeking a custom feel, cork can be cut and laid in various patterns, such as chevron or basket weave, offering a personalized and visually striking design. This is often executed on-site, ensuring that the floor installation meets specific homeowner requirements and integrates perfectly with the existing interior.

These options highlight cork flooring’s adaptability and ability to elevate any Vancouver home’s interior aesthetics, making it a popular choice for those who value style, sustainability, and the practical benefits of an environmentally friendly, on-site floor installation.

How Durable is Cork Flooring?

Cork flooring is renowned for its durability, making it a robust choice for Vancouver homes seeking long-lasting floor solutions. Crafted from the resilient bark of cork oak, this flooring type naturally resists dents, scratches, and wear thanks to its cellular structure that has the unique ability to bounce back from impacts. 

Additionally, the protective finishes applied to cork floors further enhance their durability, ensuring they can handle high traffic and remain beautiful over time. This combination of natural toughness and protective treatment makes cork flooring an excellent investment for homeowners prioritizing both sustainability and durability in their flooring choices.

How to Maintain Cork Floors?

Maintaining cork floors in Vancouver is straightforward, ensuring their beauty and longevity with simple care steps. By following these guidelines, homeowners can enjoy the durable and aesthetic appeal of cork flooring for years.

• Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to remove dirt and grit that can scratch the surface. Use a soft brush attachment to avoid abrasion.
• Mopping: Damp mop the floor periodically using a mild detergent or a solution designed explicitly for cork floors. Avoid excessive water, as cork is water-resistant but not waterproof.
• Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Never use abrasive or ammonia-based cleaning agents, as they can damage the cork’s surface. Opt for pH-neutral cleaners that are gentle on the material.
• Protect from Furniture: Place felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents. For heavier pieces, use protective mats or coasters to distribute the weight evenly.
• Manage Sun Exposure: Use curtains or blinds to minimize direct sunlight on cork floors, which can cause discoloration over time.
• Refinish Periodically: Depending on traffic and wear, cork floors should be resealed or refinished every few years to renew the protective layer that wards off stains and damage.

By adhering to these maintenance tips, Vancouver residents can ensure that their cork flooring remains a functional and attractive element of their home environment, reflecting their commitment to both style and sustainability.

What are the cost considerations for Cork Flooring?

Cork flooring offers a cost-effective solution for Vancouver homeowners, balancing upfront installation costs with long-term value. While the initial price per square foot may be higher than some conventional flooring options like carpet or vinyl, the available cork flooring provides durability and low maintenance requirements that contribute to a lower overall cost of ownership. 

Additionally, cork’s natural insulating properties can reduce energy bills by maintaining consistent indoor temperatures. Homeowners should also consider the potential increase in property value due to the attractiveness and eco-friendly nature of cork flooring, making it a wise investment for those looking to enhance both the comfort and resale value of their homes.

Where to Find Quality Cork Flooring in Vancouver?

Canadian Home Style is a premier destination for those seeking quality cork flooring and expert installation in Vancouver. This reputable store offers various cork flooring options backed by expert advice and comprehensive installation services. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Canadian Home Style ensures that each client receives the best products to meet their specific flooring needs, complete with robust warranties.

Our team of skilled installers ensures that every flooring project is executed flawlessly, making them a top choice for Vancouver homeowners looking to enhance their spaces with durable, stylish, and environmentally friendly cork flooring.