Cork

Quercus suber

Top portion of sample has water-based finish. Bottom portion is oil-based finish.

Appearance

Color: Varies from light to dark; many colors available depending on manufacturer
Grain: Distinctive look unlike wood - cork is actually the bark of a type of oak.
Variations Within Species And Grades: Many patterns available depending on manufacturer.

Properties

Hardness/Janka: Janka: Varies
Dimensional Stability: Cork reacts quickly, sometimes within hours, to changes in moisture. (Typical dimensional stability measurements do not apply to cork's composite construction).
Durability:

Workability

Sawing/Machining: Cork may be cut with a utility knife
Sanding: Use the finest grit possible to flatten the floor. The following sequences are recommended for use only with a multi-disc sander or a hard plate on a buffer. If the edger is used, fine sandpaper (100/120/150) should be backed with a maroon pad. Small or
Nailing: Cork is installed using adhesive
Finishing: All surface-type finishes are successfully used on cork (choose a finish that will bend as the cork compresses). Oil-and-wax also is used frequently.
Comments: Pay particular attention to subfloor preparation, as cork is very sensitive to moisture, and also transfers any imperfections in the subfloor to the surface appearance.

Origin: Spain and Portugal

Availability

Readily available