There are a whole lot of aspects to consider when picking a material for the bathroom floor: cost, aesthetic, setup, maintenance, sustainability and much more. Cork is an material option for toilets. Even though it’s often used because of its natural mildew resistance, there are various opinions about its capacity to stand up to a wet environment. Here you’ll learn all about the pros, cons and price variables of cork flooring, to help you determine whether it is a fantastic fit for your toilet. Could this sleek, environmentally friendly material work for you?
Peter A. Sellar – Architectural Photographer
The basics: famous for its sustainability and relaxation, cork could be set up as a click-together floating flooring or as glue-down tiles. Both types are available in many different colors and patterns.
AJ Minite of Siena Flooring Designs enjoys using cork in the bathroom. “For toilet setups either click system or glue-down cork flooring is acceptable,” Minite says. “Our cork comes prefinished with three coats of water-based polyurethane, but for bathrooms we would recommend adding two coats after setup and also a bead of silicone around the perimeter to keep out excess water.”
Cost: Cork flooring ranges in cost from $3 to $12 per square foot on average. While installation could be a DIY project for those who have home improvement DIY experience, a professional setup can help seal up all the prospective seams and cracks round bathtubs, vanities and bathrooms. Professional setup can add about $3 to $5 per square foot.
Susan Corry Design
Benefits: Cork is full of air cells that make it naturally soft underfoot, so it is great for bare feet. Additionally, it is naturally resistant to moisture, mold, mildew and bacteria, and won’t feel cold (such as tile) underfoot. Despite its soft texture, it can be as durable as hardwood when finished correctly.
Cons: make certain your cork was approved to be used in a high-moisture space, and confirm all the intricacies of this warranty with your producer. Have your installer seal the cork with a low-VOC finish to ensure that no water can seep through seams or cracks.
Cork is water resistant but not waterproof. It functions well in toilets but can suffer damage when subjected to standing water for a long time. Cork floors can plump, warp and distort if water warms a seam.
Golden Rule Creative Remodel
Environmental effect: Cork flooring requires the gold. Made from the bark of the cork oak tree, it can be safely harvested approximately every 10 years without damaging the tree. Additionally, the cork develops back over time. Cork is also an superb option for a home environment, because it is antimicrobial, hypoallergenic, biodegradable and recyclable. Cork has excellent insulation properties too, ensuring minimal heat loss.
SD Austin LLC
Maintenance: Consider laying down a tub mat near your tub and shower to soak up any potential standing water after a shower or bath. Regular cleaning should take care of everyday maintenance. Normally, bamboo flooring includes a polyurethane topcoat that protects it from minor spills and wear and tear. This poly finish has to be reapplied every couple of years to guarantee that the flooring will remain impervious to moisture.
The Home Depot
Natural Plank Cork Flooring – $43.46
Are you a fan of bamboo floors in the bathroom? Share your thoughts in the Comments section below.
More: Discover the Unstoppable Benefits of Cork in the House
