Eco Cork
The timber alternative
This article looks at the popular timber alternative, eco cork. This is by nature a great substitute for hardwood and softwood timber. However it does depend on where it is imported from, and the type of plantation it has come from. Read on for an eco analysis of cork.
Description
♦ Bark is harvested from the cork oak tree every 8-10 years
♦ The tree has a lifespan of approx. 170 years
♦ Manufactured in rolls, tiles, sheets and slabs in varying thicknesses
♦ A wide range of grain patterns
♦ Natural tones of honey, brown and tan
Uses
♦ Flooring; tiles (finishing sealants needed)
♦ Walls; panels, tiles
♦ Accesories; place mats, coasters, pan rests
Advantages
♦ Naturally harvested without damaging the tree when it sheds its bark
♦ Minimal waste
♦ High sound absorption properties
♦ High thermal and insulating properties
♦ Antimicrobial and resistant to mould and rot
♦ Comfortable and soft underfoot – a natural shock absorber
♦ Warm underfoot
♦ Quiet underfoot as low impact noise
♦ Resumes shape when compressed, minimal dents when moving furniture
♦ Resistant to water and gases
♦ Light weight as 50% air
♦ Flexible and elastic
♦ Natural fire resistant properties and does not release toxic vapours when burnt
♦ Contains a substance called ‘Suberin’ - a natural insect repellent and fire resistant
♦ Naturally anti-allergenic
♦ Natural non-slip properties – good friction even when wet
♦ Easy to clean and maintain
Disadvantages
♦ Can be costly – comparable to ceramic tiles
♦ Can be gouged with sharp objects
Maintenance
♦ Mop with a damp cloth
♦ Hoover to remove grit and dirt
Embodied Energy
♦ Transportation creates high levels of embodied energy when shipped globally.
♦ No need to extract raw materials reduces the embodied energy levels.
Source/Origin
♦ The Mediterranean, Spain, Portugal, Southern France and Italy, Northern Africa, Tunisia and Algeria
Renewable
♦ The tree does not need to be cut down
♦ Bark is fully renewable and sustainable
Recycled content
♦ Tiles can be made from the waste product of the cork manufacturing process
Environment & Health
♦ Flooring; toxic polyurethane sealants and acrylic finishes can be exchanged for natural wax and oils
♦ Recycled production waste can be ground and used as fuel for the brick ovens releasing emissions
♦ Industrial products e.g. composite products may contain chemical additives and release VOCs
Performance
♦ Very durable, lifespan can reach over 10 years
Recyclable
♦ Yes, fully
Disposal / Biodegradable
♦ No toxic vapours are released when burnt
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