November 22, 2005
DIY Cork Tile Flooring
Cork flooring is becoming popular because it's comfortable to walk on and is a good thermal insulator. Its also relatively friendly to the environment. Unlike hardwood floors, which are produced from felled trees, cork is produced from the bark, which is harvested once every nine years and then grows back without harming the tree.
Wicanders sells do-it-yourself cork tile flooring (actually they're more like planks than tiles) that starts at about $3.90 per square foot. The planks click together, and no underlayment is required unless the cork is being installed over concrete (in which case, you need to put down a thin polyethylene moisture barrier first). Cork tile flooring is recommended for kitchens, foyers, bedrooms, kids' play rooms, or any type of area where you might want a cushiony, shock-absorbent surface.
