Cork vs. Linoleum

Properties of Cork and Linoleum

• Cork is made by harvesting the bark of a cork oak tree. The tree is not cut down, and the bark can be harvested every nine years. The material is ground, pressed, baked and then cut into tiles.
  
  Linoleum is made of linseed oil, resins, sawdust, powdered cord, and other natural ingredients. Pigments are added to the mix to provide color. The mixture is pressed, heated to form a sheet and then attached to a jute backing..
  
  

Cost

• Cork is estimated to cost between $4 and $10 per square foot in 2010. Linoleum's price is estimated at $3 to $7 per square foot in 2010. A big reason for linoleum's popularity is its low cost.
  
  

Durability

• Cork is easy to install and is quiet and warm underfoot. If left unsealed, it will absorb water and stain easily. Most cork is sealed, and some has a plastic coating to protect it. Cork floors are not hurt by small dents and scratches. They will naturally rebound after a small wait. Cork will be damaged if it is submerged or exposed to moisture for an extended period.
  
  Linoleum is also quick and easy to install. It can be scratched and torn, and has a tendency to fade and stain. Its design goes through the sheet, rather than only on the top, so if it does become scratched, the pattern doesn't wear off. It will turn yellow when under furniture or a rug, but the color will return if exposed to light.
  
  

Maintenance

• Cork must be sealed to maintain its moisture and stain resiliency. Dirt can grind into the cork, so it must be removed with a light dust mop or vacuum cleaner without a beater brush. Mopping is not advised. Chairs and other furniture should not be dragged across it, and direct sunlight will cause it to fade.
  
  Linoleum is cleaned with a damp mop, and finished with polish or wax. It is sensitive to water and acidic chemicals like vinegar, and no abrasive chemicals should be used. Rugs with rubber and latex backing can stain linoleum floors, and chairs and table legs can leave stains, marks and scratches.
  
  

Environmental Issues

• Both cork and linoleum are prized by environmentalists because they are made from natural products, but both also have environmental downsides. Cork is popular because it is harvested without killing trees, but cork sometimes has plastic coating made from petroleum. Linoleum, while made from natural products, uses a lot of energy when manufactured and is glued down with a toxic adhesive.