Cork

Another ambassador from "green" land, cork (like linoleum and bamboo) originates from a natural source not endangered by its harvesting.  Cork tiles are made of the bark of the cork oak tree, bark that can be peeled off every decade (the trees live to be 150 years old).  Frank Lloyd Wright liked cork, and he installed it in houses where it endures today.

Contemporary cork floors now are sealed with a UV-cured acrylic or water-based urethan sealers.  Neither water nor oil penetrates the sealer.  What's more, you literally are walking on air: Cork tiles contain 200 million air cells per cu. in.

Traditionally, cork floors have been made from 12-in sq. tiles, up to 5/16 in. thick, in the familiar honey color.  Those tiles are still available, but manufacturers have broadened their offerings. 

Because of cork's thirsty, expansionist tendencies, moisture is the crucial concern.  In areas with wide variations in humidity, experts recommend installing cork floors at the driest time of the year.  After installation, cork floors should be finished with the manufacturer's recommended sealer to ensure that the edges of the tiles or planks are sealed thoroughly.  to keep them clean, damp mop water-based urethane finishes with a water-and-vinegar solution.

PROS - Resilient, less breakage of dropped items, comfortable underfoot, "green" material, durable, moderate cost, sound and thermal insulation, hypoallergenci, simple care.

CONS - Limited color/style selection, can fade, can dent, finish maintenance required, characteristic odor.

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