Cork Flooring Installation

How the job runs

Check building requirements

For condos, we get the association's acoustic and installation rules in writing before ordering.

Acclimate the cork

Cartons sit unopened in the room for the time Wicanders specifies, at normal living temperature and humidity.

Prepare and underlay

Subfloor flattened; vapor barrier over concrete where the guide requires it.

Float the floor

Corkloc 2G joints angled and dropped, with expansion gaps at walls and under door casings.

Finish trim and protect

Trim reinstalled, felt pads fitted to furniture, and care instructions left with you.

Cork lines we install

WISE Cork Inspire for kitchens, bathrooms and basements; Cork Essence for the softest, quietest living spaces; Cork GO when budget matters most. See all cork flooring.

Condo installations

High-rise and mid-rise buildings in Arlington, Bethesda, Downtown Silver Spring and across DC usually regulate hard flooring because of impact noise. Cork's integrated underlay helps, but each board sets its own standard. We submit manufacturer test data to management and follow the building's hours, elevator bookings and protection rules.

Expansion space is not optional

Cork expands and contracts with humidity like wood. Floating cork needs its gap at every wall, cabinet and door casing, covered by trim. We never pin a cork floor under built-ins or kitchen islands.

Floating cork installation over a slab. Over wood subfloors the vapor barrier is replaced by the underlay the manufacturer specifies.

After installation

Use felt pads on all furniture, wide casters on chairs, and doormats at entries. Clean with a vacuum and a lightly damp mop. The factory finish on Wicanders cork does not need periodic recoating.

Common questions

Can cork be installed on stairs?

Floating cork planks are not suitable for stair treads. We match stairs with coordinating wood treads or a glued solution, depending on the product.