CORK FLOOR TILES LAYING INSTRUCTIONS

Cork tiles offer a perfect combination of acoustic and thermal insulation, providing warmth, silence, and comfort for any interior. This environmentally friendly material is naturally stylish, durable, water-resistant, and easy to install and maintain, making it an excellent choice for flooring.

GETTING STARTED

The most common installation issues are often not due to the product itself but rather inappropriate installation practices, such as poor sub-floor preparation, incorrect adhesives, or unsuitable finishes. Avoid installing cork floors in areas with excessive sub-floor moisture. When using leveling compounds, ensure they are completely dry for optimal adhesion. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, using only recommended adhesives and finishes for the best results.

Both cork tiles and adhesives must be at room temperature during installation. To acclimate them, keep the packaged tiles and adhesive in the installation area for at least 24 hours. Do not unpack the tiles until you are ready to install them, and maintain stable temperature conditions throughout the process.

SUB-FLOOR PREPARATION

A high-quality installation depends largely on proper sub-floor preparation. The sub-floor should be level, smooth, dry, firm, and free from cracks, dirt, grease, oil, solvents, sealers, and any old adhesive residues. If the sub-floor is uneven, use a leveling compound to smooth it out.

UNDER-FLOOR HEATING

When installing cork tiles over under-floor heating, adhere to these guidelines:

• Turn off the heating 48 hours before installation.
• Gradually turn the heating back on, starting 72 hours after installation.
• Do not exceed a surface temperature of 26°C, as higher temperatures can affect the bond of the adhesive.
• Keep in mind that cork floors may expand and contract due to temperature changes.

TOOLS NEEDED

Cutter, ruler, pencil, chalk line, roller, rubber mallet.

QUALITY CONTROL

Whenever possible, use tiles from the same batch for uniformity. Inspect the tiles before installation. If you notice any defects, report them to your supplier immediately and avoid using those tiles.

Since cork is a natural material, slight variations in color or texture may occur, adding to its unique charm. To achieve the best blend of shades, mix tiles from different packages during installation. Also, check for any slight size differences between tiles and group those of the same size together.

PLANNING THE LAYOUT

Decide whether you will lay the tiles in a staggered "half-brick" pattern or in a straight "in bond" alignment. Installation usually starts in the center of the room and moves outward. Mark a guiding line by stretching a chalk string between the middle of opposite walls. Lay a few loose tiles along the line to visualize the pattern before starting the full installation.

APPLYING ADHESIVE

The recommended adhesive for cork tiles is a contact adhesive, which must be applied to both the sub-floor and the back of the tiles. Stir the adhesive well and follow the instructions on the packaging. Apply an even layer of adhesive on the back of the tiles using a low-nap roller. Ensure the coverage is complete, around 100-120 g/m².

Allow the adhesive on the tiles to dry completely before installation. The adhesive will be tacky to the touch once dry, with a smooth, glossy finish. Tiles can be pre-coated up to 24 hours in advance, and on the day of installation, only the sub-floor needs to be coated with adhesive. After sufficient drying time (30-120 minutes depending on temperature, humidity, and sub-floor absorption), tiles can be installed.

LAYING THE TILES

Start by placing the first tile along the guideline and press it into place with a rubber mallet. Align each subsequent tile with the previous one, ensuring a tight fit between the edges. Use the mallet to press each tile firmly, especially around the edges and corners.

Roll the floor in both directions with a 50 kg roller every 30 minutes to ensure firm adhesion.

FINISHING

After installation, cork tiles must be sealed to protect the surface and enhance durability. You have two options for finishing:

1. Lacquer Finish: Provides a tough, scratch-resistant, and waterproof layer. We recommend a commercial-grade lacquer for high-traffic areas.
2. Hardwax Oil Finish: Preserves the natural feel of cork while offering protection. It may require regular maintenance, but it enhances the natural warmth and texture of the floor.

After installation, wait at least 24 hours for the adhesive to dry completely. Clean the floor, removing any adhesive residue. Apply two coats of lacquer or Hardwax Oil, depending on your chosen finish. Pre-finished tiles must be lightly sanded before the application of additional coats. Light traffic is allowed after 1 day, but full curing takes about a week.

ROOM CONDITIONS

Cork floors may expand or contract due to changes in temperature or humidity. Ideally, maintain a relative humidity level between 40% and 60%, both for your comfort and the floor’s stability. In winter, low humidity may cause shrinkage and minor gaps between tiles.

PREVENTIVE CARE

Protect your cork floor by keeping it clean. Furniture should have protective pads to prevent scratches, and heavy objects should be moved with care. Use soft, wide castors for chairs and place a non-staining doormat at the entrance to prevent dirt and sand from damaging the floor. Avoid sharp objects and use curtains or blinds to protect the cork from fading due to direct sunlight.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

Clean your cork floor regularly using a mop or vacuum. For heavier soiling, use a pH-neutral cleaning product. Never use abrasive or ammonia-based cleaners. Periodically, you may need to refresh the protective layer by applying a maintenance product.

RENOVATION

Over time, varnished floors may require refurbishing. Sand the old finish lightly, remove dust and dirt, and apply two new coats of lacquer or Hardwax Oil to restore the surface.

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

• Gluing: Wakol D3540, Mapei Ultrabond Aqua-Contact Cork / Eco Contact, Bostik Contact A950 Eco, F. Ball Styccobond F66.
• Cleaning: Loba Cleaner, Bona Cleaner, Dr. Schutz Wood & Cork Floor Cleaner, Saicos Wash Care.
• Maintenance: Loba KorkCare, Bona Polish, Dr. Schutz Wood & Cork Floor Polish.
• Finishing: Lobadur WS 2K Duo, Bona Traffic, Dr. Schutz PU Sealer, Hardwax Oils.

SPECIAL NOTE

This guide serves as a general reference. Please refer to the specific instructions of each product manufacturer, and consult technical data sheets as needed. Always test products for suitability before application, and consult professionals when in doubt.