Though there are many benefits to cork, it is a soft material and thus doesn’t make the most durable floor tiles. Thus, it is necessary to coat the tiles in a sealant made just for that purpose. While most sealants are the same, it is important to check with your cork floor tile supplier if you have any questions about what sealant to use. Also, remember to use a low VOC sealant on your cork floor when possible to avoid harm to your lungs and the environment.
Sealing Your Cork Floor is Important! If you plan to hire a professional to install your cork floor tiles, chances are they will know the appropriate sealant to use. However, with do-it-yourself jobs, many homeowners are not aware of the need for sealant when installing cork tiles. Also, if you have noticed that the looks of your cork floor are fading, it could be time to re-seal the tiles, reinstating beauty and durability. No matter the case, it is very important to apply the proper sealant for your cork tiles.
Many times this sealant for cork tiles is already applied to the tiles when you purchase them, though it may be just a thin layer. If you are using cork floor tiles in the kitchen or another room that sees a lot of traffic and moisture, like the entryway or bathroom, it may be a good idea to apply additional sealant for maximum protection. Remember, rooms like the bathroom or kitchen are very hard on any type of flooring, so you want to be sure that you do everything possible to keep them looking great for a long time.
How to Apply Sealant to Cork Tiles Thoroughly clean the floor tiles to be sealed Apply the sealer with a foam roller in one thick layer to the entire area that needs to be treated Wait for 24 hours before walking on the floor in socks, and one week for sealant to set completely The great benefit to a sealant for cork floor tiles is that it seals all of the joints where the tiles come together. This helps to keep moisture and dirt from getting into the tiles and under the tiles to keep them as safe as possible from moisture and normal wear and tear. Even if the cork floor tiles come sealed, an additional layer of sealant as directed by the manufacturer can help to make them even more impervious to dirt, debris, and moisture sealing up the seams.
When to Seal Cork Flooring Sealant for cork floor tiles needs to be reapplied once a year or so (depending on the traffic it sees) to keep the cork looking beautiful for as long as possible. The ease of application will make it something that even the most novice of do-it-yourselfers can do. This simple step, along with regular care and maintenance, will help your cork flooring to last for a very long time.
Cork Flooring Sealants to Consider When it comes to choosing a sealant for your cork floor tiles, remember to go with what the manufacturer recommends. Also, keep in mind that cork is a green flooring material, and there is no better way to support that than to choose a sealer low in VOCs. My favorite products to consider for sealing natural flooring like cork are Varathane’s Diamond Coat Polyurethane and BioShield’s canauba wax. They are low in VOCs, durable, and require less ongoing maintenance than other sealants.
Cork floor tiles are a great choice to help add warmth and style to a home. By taking proper care of your cork floor tiles and applying the recommended sealant, you will be able to get the most from your investment and have a floor that will stand the test of time.
