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Cork is the bark of the Cork Oak tree. The tree, grown predominately in Europe and North Africa, has a life span ranging from 150-200 years. Cork is harvested using traditional methods that have remained virtually unchanged since the uses of cork were first discovered. Once the tree has reached the correct level of maturity (typically 25 years), the first harvest of cork bark is removed from the tree. The cork is removed by first making an incision using a sharp knife into the bark. After this incision is made, the cork is gently removed from the tree in sections approximately 1’ X 3’. The cork is then carried to a centralized location in the forest where it is stacked and aged for a period of 3-6 months. This process is repeated every nine years henceforth, at no time affecting the health of the tree. Hand labor is used throughout the entire harvesting process to ensure that the trees are properly treated and protected. During each harvest, no more than 50% of the bark is removed, allowing the tree to protect itself using its natural defenses. Chemical pesticides and fertilizers are not normally used in the cork forest. Like the production of the raw material, the manufacturing methods are also geared towards the protection of our environment. To produce cork flooring, virgin cork bark and cork waste from the manufacturing of other cork products is recycled and ground into small granules. The granules are baked in molds at varying temperatures, allowing shade variations, from light to dark, in the finished tile product. After being baked, cut into slabs, sanded and finished with our natural wax or polyurethane, the tiles are hand sorted to assure the highest quality final product. Any rejected material during production is recycled back into future products. Dyes and colorings are not used in the manufacture of Expanko’s solid Traditional Cork products. During the manufacturing process, all raw materials are consumed, either for the finished flooring product or as an energy source. Production waste consisting of cork dust and cork oak tree trimmings are burned in furnaces which supply the heat to bake the cork tiles. Not only does cork provide consumers with one of the most durable, beautiful and comfortable floors available, but it also helps conserve our precious natural resources. When installed, cork provides a long lasting floor, giving your interior a warm, natural look and feel that will retain its' functional beauty for decades. Due to the cultural and financial significance that cork plays in many parts of the world, we are assured of a consistent supply. Additionally, the cork oak is resistant to attack from pests and other predators preventing any catastrophic loss of cork trees. The governments of those countries which control a significant percentage of the cork forests including Portugal and Spain have significant penalties for the removal or destruction of cork oak trees. Additionally, these governments subsidize re-forestation and preservation programs to encourage planting and maintaining the cork forest. Throughout its history, Expanko has maintained the highest level of quality by retaining many of the production practices used for the past 100 years. Expanko is the only company that offers such a wide selection of patterns and colors including our true light, medium and dark shade tile. Expanko sets the benchmark for cork flooring products by designing and manufacturing products to the highest standards using traditional methods of the past in conjunction with new advancements in production. Expanko remains committed to quality and retention of the historical properties of cork flooring and will continue to lead the industry in this direction. Resilience - The resilience of cork is due to the unique cellular structure, which consists of over 2.4 million air-filled cells per cubic inch. Because approximately 80% of cork is air, it can recover up to 100% of its original dimension when compressed with pin pointed pressure. The resilience gives users a floor that is comfortable to walk on causing less stress to the back and feet. Unparalleled Durability - The durability of cork can be attributed to the finish, resilience and structure of the cork tiles. The finish that is applied to the surface protects it from moisture, chemicals, dirt and other damaging materials. The resilience of the floor aids in its durability because it tends to "give" which helps to resist scratching and denting. Many floors remain in service today after more than 80 years of commercial use. Rich Natural Look - Expanko products are not covered with vinyl or other finishes which hide the natural beauty of the material. Cork has a unique and natural look to it complementing classic and contemporary designs. With its natural shade variations and our ability to custom manufacture, Expanko cork flooring allows vast opportunities in floor design. Non-Toxic - Because cork is a natural product, it is non-toxic and does not contain odors and chemicals that can cause allergic reactions. Easy Installation and Maintenance - Cork can be installed using Expanko’s proprietary system on plywood and concrete sub-floors. Damp mopping with a mild detergent is all that is necessary to maintain a cork floor. Cork does not stain easily or require scrubbing or cleaning with harsh chemicals. Like hardwood, periodic reapplication of finish is recommended. Suitable for Both Commercial and Residential Application - Because of the durability of cork, it is suitable for both commercial and residential installation. |