Cork is a lightweight, flexible, and nearly impervious material made from leftover granules from the wine cork production process. These granules are heated to expand and bind into solid blocks used for insulation and building applications.
Suitable Climates:
Humid: Naturally resists mold and mildew.
Cold: Provides excellent insulation, reducing heating needs.
Hot: Limits heat transfer to keep interiors cool.
Fluctuating Temperatures: Withstands extreme temperature swings (-292°F to 248°F).
Note: Proper sealing and maintenance are essential, especially in wet or humid environments.
Benefits: Excellent thermal insulation and soundproofing, fire-resistant, non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals, biodegradable, abrasion resistant, antimicrobial, hypoallergenic, ultra-low permeability to gases and liquids, and recyclable.
Drawbacks: Requires prompt cleaning to prevent moisture absorption, can discolor with prolonged sunlight exposure, has a high initial cost, limited availability, variable quality, and is susceptible to wear and physical damage.
Applications: Wall coverings, flooring, partitions, cladding, walls, and roofs.