Do Cork Floors Need to Be Resealed?

Initial Sealing

• Cork tiles purchased commercially may have a layer of clear vinyl sealer applied during the manufacturing process. The purpose of this is to protect the tiles against stains and moisture, because cork is extremely porous and absorbs liquid on contact. For tiles that are unfinished, or those prefinished with polyurethane, seal the floor after installation using a water-based, matte polyurethane sealer or varnish. Apply at least two coats, allowing it to dry for 24 hours between applications. For cork tiles that are prefinished with wax, apply an additional coat of wax finish after installation.

Daily Cleaning

• Avoid spills if possible, and clean up any liquids immediately to prevent staining. Sweep the floor daily with a soft broom or dust mop, which will not scratch the surface of the sealant. Damp-mop only when necessary. If the floor becomes dull, buff it using a floor polisher and a lambswool polishing pad. Buff the cork only when it is clean, as dirt particles may scratch the finish during buffing.

Resealing

• Reseal your cork flooring annually if it needs it. If the floor is in good condition, you may be able to simply apply a new layer after cleaning the floor thoroughly or buffing it to remove any stubborn dirt. If the floor shows stains or the sealant appears to be wearing off in places, stripping it off using a solvent specially formulated for cork will give a better result. After stripping, sand the floor lightly to remove the stains. Vacuum it thoroughly to remove the dust, and follow with several coatings of polyurethane sealer, allowing 24 hours for drying between layers.

Maintenance

• Apply one to two coats of finish once the polyurethane sealer is completely dry. Buff with a floor polisher weekly to maintain the sheen, and reapply the finish every three months to maintain the density and protect the floor. This maintenance program could make it unnecessary to strip and reseal the floor every year, and can give your cork flooring a longer lifespan.