Cork flooring can be an excellent choice for bathroom floors, even in humid environments, due to cork’s natural moisture-resistant properties. However, careful consideration must be taken when installing cork in bathrooms to ensure proper preparation and maintenance.
An Introduction to Cork Flooring
Cork flooring has risen in popularity in recent years as an eco-friendly and durable flooring option made from the bark of the cork oak tree. Cork is naturally water-resistant due to its waxy suberin component and low moisture absorption rate. This makes it a good potential material for bathroom floors, compared to more moisture-sensitive materials like hardwood.
Here are some of the main advantages of cork flooring:
- Natural moisture resistance – The waxy suberin in cork repels water and moisture. Cork can withstand humidity levels up to 90%.
- Insulating qualities – Cork is an excellent thermal and acoustic insulator, meaning it helps regulate temperature and dampen noise when used as flooring. This can enhance comfort in the bathroom.
- Comfort and support – Cork has some give and flexibility underfoot, making it comfortable to stand on for long periods of time. This is beneficial in the bathroom when getting ready, shaving, doing makeup, etc.
- Sustainability – Cork oak trees are not cut down to harvest cork bark; it is removed without permanently damaging the tree. Cork flooring has a very low carbon footprint.
- Durability – With proper maintenance, cork can last 20-30 years or longer before needing replacement. The cellular structure gives it resilience.
- Aesthetics – Cork comes in a range of natural tan/brown tones that can complement bathrooms well. The visual texture adds interest.
Clearly, cork has characteristics that make it well-suited to withstand bathroom humidity better than alternatives like hardwood or laminate. However, there are still factors to consider with cork in humid environments.
Challenges of Using Cork Flooring in Bathrooms
Cork’s moisture-resistance does not make it completely impervious to water damage. Bathrooms present some particular challenges:
- Periodic water exposure – While cork can handle some moisture, constant dampness or pooled water from spills, splashes, and shower leaks can degrade cork over time.
- Steam and condensation – High humidity will not damage cork directly, but persistent condensation can allow moisture to penetrate the seams and get trapped underneath.
- Sealing issues – If the cork floor is not properly sealed initially, moisture may seep between the planks and compromise the integrity.
- Adhesive breakdown – Water can break down adhesives over time and cause the planks to separate or lift. Using a waterproof adhesive is critical.
- Warping and expansion – Like other natural materials, prolonged moisture exposure could make the cork planks expand, contract, or warp.
- Mold and mildew growth – Excess condensation or trapped moisture could allow mold, mildew or bacteria to start growing on or under the cork.
Clearly, humidity control and moisture management are imperative in bathrooms with cork floors. Careful prep and maintenance is required to avoid water damage.
Best Practices for Installing Cork Flooring in Bathrooms
Installing cork flooring properly is the first critical step to ensuring it survives the humid bathroom environment. Here are some best practices to follow:
Choose the Right Cork Product
- Solid cork – Made of cork all the way through, offers most moisture resistance.
- Engineered cork – Cork veneer on water-resistant core, balances durability and stability.
- Core material – HDF cores preferable to cheap softwood; no OSB/particle board.
- Click-together floating planks – Easier DIY installation than glue-down tiles.
- Surface coating – Polyurethane provides best moisture protection. Oiled or wax coatings need more frequent sealing.
Proper Subfloor Preparation
- Remove old flooring down to the subfloor.
- Check for mildew or moisture damage on subfloor and remediate fully.
- Subfloor must be immaculately clean and dry before installation per manufacturer instructions.
- Level any uneven surfaces for smooth cork installation.
Moisture Barrier Application
- Use moisture barrier like Aquabar “B” on concrete subfloors to protect from ground moisture.
- For wood subfloors, use roofing felt or vinyl sheet barrier.
- Seal seams and edges carefully with moisture-resistant tape.
Waterproof Adhesive
- Use adhesive fully approved for bathroom cork installation per manufacturer.
- Urethane or epoxy adhesives better than standard mastics which can wash away over time.
- Apply evenly to avoid hollow spots. Follow all direction on open time and pressure to activate bond properly.
- Weight down planks as adhesive dries if needed to prevent curling or gapping from humidity.
Proper Acclimation
- Acclimate the sealed cork flooring to the interior environment for 72+ hours before installing.
- Keep relative humidity 40-60% and temperatures 60-75°F during acclimation.
- Follow all manufacturer guidelines strictly for acclimation time frames. Rushing this step risks cupping or expansion issues later when humidity increases.
Expansion Gaps
- Leave 1/4″ expansion gaps around the perimeter and between flooring runs to allow the planks room to expand and contract with humidity fluctuations.
- Use cork expansion joint strips (not baseboards) along the edges so gaps can remain open.
- Do not tightly butt planks against walls, pipes, door jambs, etc.
Apply Cork Floor Sealant
- Per manufacturer guidelines, apply 2-3 coats of their recommended polyurethane or epoxy sealant across the floor upon installation.
- For oiled/waxed finishes, additional coats yearly are advised.
- Sealant is key to preventing moisture seeping between the cork planks.
Following these best practices carefully will give the cork bathroom floor the best chance of withstanding humid conditions without cupping, expanding, delaminating, or growing mold.
Maintenance Tips for Cork Flooring in Bathrooms
Once installed correctly, there are also maintenance steps that must be followed to maximize the cork floor’s longevity in a bathroom setting:
- Wipe spills quickly to prevent pooling water from being absorbed.
- Add towel bars, non-slip bath mats, shower curtains, etc. to help limit excess moisture.
- Use a hydrophobic mop treatment to help repel water absorption during cleaning.
- Test humidity levels and use exhaust fans, dehumidifiers, etc. to keep indoor RH between 40-60%.
- Avoid cleaning with excess water or steam mops which can penetrate the sealant.
- Use manufacturer recommended cleaners – mild detergents or cork floor disinfectants. Avoid bleach and acid-based products.
- Reapply protective sealant or oil/wax coats as needed per manufacturer recs – usually every 1-5 years.
- Check for any cracks, gaps, or bubbling and re-adhere planks down immediately as needed.
- Have the floor professionally cleaned and evaluated annually to proactively identify any moisture issues.
With vigilance, the cork flooring can remain in good shape and avoid Cupping, expanding, contracting, or growing mildew. Contact the manufacturer promptly if any concerns arise. Preventative maintenance is key.
FAQs About Installing Cork Floors in Bathrooms
Can you put cork flooring in a bathroom?
Yes, cork can be suitable for bathrooms due to its naturally moisture-resistant properties. However, special preparation and maintenance is required.
What are the best cork products for bathrooms?
100% solid cork plank flooring or engineered cork with a durable core like HDF are best. The cork surface should have a waterproof polyurethane finish.
Does cork flooring need underlayment in bathrooms?
Cork underlayment is not necessarily required, but an underlayment like Aquabar can act as an additional moisture barrier for added protection. This depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Can you use cork flooring in a wet room?
We do not recommend cork flooring for very wet areas like a full wet room where the whole floor gets soaked regularly. Focused shower areas with good ventilation are more appropriate applications for cork.
How do you seal cork flooring in a bathroom?
Always use manufacturer recommended sealants to coat the cork planks during installation and periodically refresh ever 1-5 years after. Polyurethanes form the most waterproof seal.
How long does cork flooring last in bathrooms?
With proper installation and maintenance, sealed cork can last 20-30 years in bathroom settings. Avoid excess moisture and reapply protective sealants regularly to maximize its lifespan.
Does cork flooring scratch easily in bathrooms?
Cork is reasonably scratch resistant, especially with polyurethane coatings. But sharp objects or grit trapped under shoes could scratch it over time. Use floor mats and immediate cleaning of debris to prevent scratches in bathrooms.
Can you install cork flooring over vinyl in bathrooms?
It is not advisable to install cork tiles or planks directly over sheet vinyl, as moisture can become trapped between the layers. It is better to remove old vinyl flooring first down to the subfloor before installing new cork.
Should underlayment be used with cork in bathrooms?
Cork underlayment provides additional cushioning but is not necessarily required. More importantly, use a moisture barrier like Aquabar-B on concrete subfloors for humidity protection. Cork is naturally insulating already.
Does cork get moldy in bathrooms?
Excess moisture trapped under cork can result in mold or mildew growth over time. Proper sealing, humidity control, ventilation and drying of spills prevents mold. Annual deep cleaning also helps remove any buildup from joints.
Conclusion
Cork flooring can make an attractive, comfortable, and eco-friendly choice for bathroom floors. Its moisture-resistant properties naturally lend cork to being able to withstand humid bathroom environments better than many alternatives. However, careful prep work, installation, sealing, and maintenance is required to prevent moisture issues like cupping, expanding planks, adhesive breakdown, and mold growth. With cork properly installed and cared for, it can provide a durable, warm, and distinctive flooring option that adds character to any bathroom space. Be sure to follow all manufacturer recommendations diligently, test humidity conditions regularly, clean spills promptly, and reapply protective sealants to get the most out of lovely cork floors, even in steamy bathrooms.