Cleaning Cork
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Even though cork flooring requires low maintenance there are still a few things you need to do to keep your cork flooring in tip-top shape. You'll still need to periodically vacuum and damp mop your cork flooring once a month. It's generally a good idea to vacuum or sweep your cork floors weekly. Once a month you should use damp mop your flooring, however avoid excessive amounts of water. Your cleaning solution should be a PH-balanced detergent or mild soap. Avoid any harsh cleaners as they will damage your cork flooring and void your warranty
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Maintaining Cork |
- To keep your cork flooring from fading do not let excessive sunlight hit the flooring for long periods of time. Curtains, drapes, blinds, window treatments, etc are a good way to prevent this while adding a more decorated look to your room.
- People moving or relocating furniture is when the most damage is done to cork flooring. The strength of cork flooring is due to its cellular honeycomb structure, so weight isn't an issue. However, if you drag furniture across cork flooring it will damage this structure and rip holes into the flooring. Make sure you lift furniture and don't drag it.
- A good way to prevent scuffs in your cork flooring is to place felt pads underneath all furniture located on top of your cork flooring. This includes tables, dressers, beds, TV stands, etc. You'll find felt pads that can be cut to any size and will be unnoticeable to any guests over for dinner.
- You'll also want to consider breathable mats in the front of any sinks or exterior doorways to prevent the build of moisture. You'll want to stay away from rubber or other non-porous material; this will prevent the build of moisture underneath the mat itself.
- Cork will fade if exposed to direct sunlight. Furniture and flooring should be moved periodically to even out the fading from sun and UV exposure.
- It will also react to humidity and moisture. Humidity should be maintained at 50-60%.
- Cork floors should be swept and vacuumed often to avoid the build up of dirt. Dirt can scratch the finish.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents, especially those that contain glycerin. These products can harm the finish making it impossible to refinish.
- A neutral PH detergent (PH of 6-8) should be used to clean cork floors either with a wrung out sponge or misted over the floor and damp mopped.
- Spills should be wiped up immediately.
- Chairs with casters should have minimum 2” casters.
- Mats should be used under chairs with casters to protect the finish from becoming dull.
- Furniture or chair feet should sit on wide coasters to prevent excessive indentation
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To Do's |
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Wipe away spills immediately.
- Sweep or vacuum your cork floors regularly. Dirt, dust, grit or debris may scratch the surface of cork floor. Regular cleaning will prevent this abrasion.
- Damp mop the floor at least once a week or as required. Because excess water can harm the floor, be sure to use only a 'damp' mop.
- Use only recommended cork floor cleaners to clean heavy stains or spills.
- Use mild wood-floor detergent once in a while for cleaning the cork floors thoroughly.
- Place door mats and pads at the entrances, to prevent dirt, sand and grit being tracked onto the floor.
- Place mats in front of the working areas in the kitchen like sink and stove to prevent moisture penetration and wear due to excess floor usage.
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In Case You Didn't Know |
- Allow any liquid to stand on cork floors. Water or moisture in any form can seriously damage the floor.
- Wet mop your cork floors.
- Flood the floor while cleaning or wet mopping.
- Use abrasive soaps, oils, waxes or ammonia-based cleaning products on your cork floors. Also, never use harsh solvents as many of them can discolor or damage the floor's surface.
- Use mats with rubber or other non-porous backings since they could trap moisture and affect the finish
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