In addition to bamboo, cork is an excellent alternative to wood flooring. An amazingly versatile, cork” is so flexible, light, and impermeable that it can be used for everything from bottle stoppers to buoys to insulators. Cork is even used in musical instruments!

Cork is completely sustainable and easily recyclable because it comes directly form the outer bark of the cork oak tree. Therefore, it negates the need to cut down trees, allowing trees to continue releasing oxygen.

Cork is especially great for floors because t’s softer and more buoyant than hardwood. Acting as a cushioning pad, it is an excellent choice for those areas—kitchens and workrooms—requiring you stay on your feet.

Roll of cork flooring. Credit: ArtConcepts Store.

Posted on January 13th, 2008 by Olivia Zaleski