The Many Benefits Of Using Cork Underlay
Cork underlay effectively controls sound transmission in hard surfaces. This product finds plenty of use in domestic as well as commercial applications. The structure of cork is comprised of almost 200 million cells that lie in a honeycomb like structure. These cells are filled with air and sealed, which makes it an effective acoustic insulating material. When it is used under hard surfaces such as wood, laminate, natural stone, vinyl, floating or linoleum floors, this cork underlay enhances the acoustic performance of the floors tremendously. The same honeycomb cellular structure also allows cork to recover its original shape and size 100% even after it is compressed repeatedly. Both of these qualities make cork the ideal choice to be used for sound control applications.
Cork underlay also offers better protection against stress cracks when it is used under ceramic tiles, hardwood flooring and stone.
Cork has been used in the construction industry in a wide range of applications. It is used to eliminate vibrations and to reduce wear between two hard surfaces. It is also used in compression and expansion joints in structures that are made of concrete. Because of its insulating properties, this material is also beneficial as a means of saving energy. It offers a high degree of thermal insulation, which means it holds warmth even at lower thermostat levels as compared to stone or hard wood floors. In addition, it is more hygienic than using a carpet, which is typically a hotbed for dander, mites, mold and germs.
When cork underlay is used in flooring, there is usually no need to construct a sub-floor, which helps to reduce expenses on any flooring project. It is also fire-retardant, lightweight and very durable. The fact that it is often used in the construction of public buildings is testimony to its high durability. In churches, libraries and museums, where silence is a desired quality, cork is typically the preferred choice not only for the flooring but also as a wall covering.
Another very versatile feature of cork is that it offers benefits for the very old as well as for the very young. When laid out on the floor in a kid’s bedroom, its shock absorptive property offers kids a great place to jump around on and fall on without fear of serious injury. For the elderly who suffer from pain in the knees, back and joints, this very same shock absorptive property helps absorb some of the stress when walking around. It also gives the elderly a softer surface to walk on, thus helping reduce the strain and the pain on the joints.
Cork contains Suberin, a naturally occurring substance that acts as a fire inhibitor and also as a preservative that prevents rotting. Suberin also helps make cork resistant to the damaging effects of termites, bugs, mites and mold.
Last but not least, cork flooring is an environmentally friendly alternative to many of the other flooring options that are available. You never have to feel guilty about using cork in any form.
With so many benefits and no discernible downside, Cork Flooring is the ideal solution for anybody looking to revamp their décor. If you are looking for cork underlay to enhance the acoustics, go to iCork Floor and see the range they have on offer.
Cork Flooring, cork underlay