Cork flooring is intended for use on rigid subfloors, such as smooth-finished or screeded concrete supported above grade and free of moisture, or on structurally sound plywood or hardboard. Cork tile is not recommended for application below grade. When it is installed at grade, moisture-free conditions must be ensured.
Cork tile is manufactured by baking cork granules with phenolic or other resin binders under pressure. Four types of finishes are produced: natural, factoryprefinished wax, resin-reinforced wax, and vinyl cork tile (Art. 14.8). The tiles are generally 6 x 6, 6 x 12, 9 x 9, 12 x 12, 12 x 24, or 36 x36 in and 1â„8, 3â„16, 5â„16, or 1â„2 in thick.
Natural cork tile must be sanded (to level), sealed, and waxed immediately after installation.
Unless the exposed surface of cork floors is maintained with sealers and protective coatings, permanent stains from spillage and excessive soiling by heavy traffic will result.
Cork tiles are particularly suitable for areas where quiet and comfort are of paramount importance.
See also Art. 11.36.
