Q: I will be building a new office and am considering using cork flooring. I am concerned about how it will wear under areas where an office chair will roll on it all day.
Thanks,
Bill
A: Cork can work very well in an office setting, in fact we have a very large area here at the office which is all done with a floating cork floor from Westhollow. One benefit to the slight cushion cork has is that it will give under the chairs, which can help cushion the impact of movement. If you are fairly concerned about scratching, you can change the casters on officer chairs to a softer rubber rather than the typical hard plastic, but from my experience here as long as the floor is kept clean and grit and debris is kept off the floor it should perform well.
My biggest advice here would be to use 6mm cork underlayment if you choose a floating cork floor. Any other underlayment which is less dense will cause more movement in the floor as weight is displaced over it, such as when walking, and this additional movement can be trouble when office chairs are moving about.
Cork can work very well, just ensure that the floor is regularly cleaned and dirt and grit is prevented from getting on the floor and you should have little issues with office chairs messing up your cork floor. Keep in mind, the finish is not as abrasion resistant as laminate, as it needs to be more flexible, but with cork’s give it helps to prevent damage to the floor.
If you have chosen to install a floating cork floor in your new office, then you’re showing proof of discerning taste and practicality. Cork is an excellent material for floors and a floating floor is also a great way to go. Caring for your cork flooring on a daily basis is extremely easy and simple. It is sufficient to remove dirt with a broom, preferably one that is anti-static. If needed, a quick wet mop will take care of spills or other stuck on dirt. In case of a stubborn spot you can add a small amount of mild soap to the water.