Whenever people learn about the way a cork floors is actually produced, they're afraid that the floors of theirs will look like wine corks, boards, or maybe coasters, when actually it appears nothing like those items. Suberin, a normally occurring substance in the material, could be the key component which inhibits the floors from rotting even when it is absolutely submerged in water for long periods of time.
Images about Cork Expansion Strips Wood Flooring
Cork Expansion Strips Wood Flooring
The truth is, after a cork oak tree matures it may be harvested every nine years throughout the lifespan of its, which happens to be roughly 150 to 200 yrs. Cork has a natural substance called suberin. In reality, countries as Portugal which account for a huge supply of the worlds cork have strict laws ready on cork harvesting. Cork has been utilized in an assortment of capacities for thousands of years including flooring.
Cork Expansion Strips – Peak Oak
In case you stand on a cork flooring with high heels, the floor will make a dent or an impression. Cork floors are made out of cork material cork. The very small air pockets reduce heat loss as well as help hold on to it that is certainly an extremely useful element in frigid environments. Commercial producers of cork just remove a thin level from the trunk of this tree, giving the cork oak tree unchanged.
Cork Expansion Strips – Peak Oak
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Cork Expansion Strips – Peak Oak
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What Are Cork Expansion Strips?
Cork expansion strips, also known as floating floor expansion joints, are a common feature of wood flooring installations. They are designed to fill the gap between planks of hardwood flooring and the walls they are installed against. This gap, commonly referred to as an expansion gap, is necessary to allow for natural wood movement. Without this gap, the flooring can buckle and warp due to changes in humidity or temperature. The cork expansion strips absorb this movement and keep the floor looking great for years to come.
Why Are Cork Expansion Strips Necessary?
Cork expansion strips are necessary because wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture depending on the humidity of its environment. When wood is installed in a home, it is surrounded by air with different temperatures and humidity levels. As the seasons change, so does the environment; this causes the wood to expand and contract as it absorbs and releases moisture. If a gap was not created between the planks of wood and the walls, the flooring would buckle and warp over time. The cork expansion strips provide a buffer between the planks and walls, allowing them to move without causing any damage.
How Are Cork Expansion Strips Installed?
Installing cork expansion strips is relatively easy, although it should be done with care. The first step is to measure the distance between the planks of hardwood flooring and the walls. Next, cut lengths of cork that are slightly longer than this measurement and fit them snugly into the gap. The cork should be cut so that it overlaps at least 1/4” onto each side of the plank. Finally, caulk along both edges of the cork strip to ensure that it is sealed tightly in place. The caulk will also help to prevent any water damage from occurring in the future.
Are There Different Types Of Cork Expansion Strips?
Yes, there are two main types of cork expansion strips: adhesive-backed and non-adhesive-backed. Adhesive-backed cork strips are easier to install as they simply need to be peeled off their backing paper and stuck into place; however, they may not be as secure as non-adhesive-backed strips. Non-adhesive-backed cork strips need to be secured with nails or staples, making them more difficult to install but more secure in the long run.
FAQs About Cork Expansion Strips Wood Flooring
Q: How much space should I leave between my planks and walls when installing cork expansion strips?
A: It is recommended to leave an expansion gap of 1/4” – 1/2” between your planks and walls when installing cork expansion strips. This will allow for enough room for natural wood movement caused by changing temperatures or humidity levels.
Q: What kind of caulk should I use when installing cork expansion strips?
A: You should use a high-quality latex caulk when installing cork expansion strips. This type of caulk is designed to withstand changes in temperature or humidity levels, ensuring that your cork strips remain securely in place for years to come.
Q: Can I replace my existing cork expansion strips?
A: Yes, you can replace your existing cork expansion strips if they become damaged or worn out over time. Simply remove the old strips using a putty knife or razor blade and replace them with new ones that have been cut to fit your flooring measurements. Be sure to caulk along both edges of each strip for a secure fit.
Conclusion
Cork expansion strips are an important part of any hardwood flooring installation; they provide an essential buffer between planks and walls that allows for natural wood movement without causing any damage or buckling over time. While installation can be tricky depending on the type of strip you choose, taking proper measurements and using quality caulk will ensure that your floors look great for years to come!