RENOVATIONS: Cork floor benefits

Q We are replacing the vinyl flooring in our kitchen and considering cork flooring. We like the look and feel of cork and have found lots of styles to choose from that have a dark finish, but we are wondering about how well it holds up in a kitchen. -- Sue, North Vancouver

A Kitchen and bathrooms are susceptible to water leaking from toilets, sinks, showers, icemakers, instant hot water, and dishwashers etc. If any water gets under a laminated floor, the only way to dry it is to remove the floor.

If you want the look of hardwood, the alternative to laminate would be a Karndean luxury vinyl that replicates the look and feel of hardwood; otherwise, cork is a good, resilient option for a kitchen space as well.

Cork is non-porous and mildew-resistant, making it ideal for kitchens and high-traffic areas in splash or spill areas. Cork's insulating qualities also offer sound abatement.

You can find glue-down cork flooring, interlocking (glue-less) or floating. For kitchens, I recommend a glue-down application. Quality will be reflected in price and thickness of flooring in both planks or tiles.

(prepared by Shell Busey/Vancouver Province)