Composition Cork is made of cork granules, which have been, joined together using different synthetic or natural binding agent. One of the most widely used agglomerated cork product viz. cork sheets is available in different grades, textures, bondings, densities and even colour. The standard size of cork sheet is 3' x 2' and thickness ranges from 0.8mm to 10mm (and slabs up to 125mm). At Advance Cork International we also supply Cork sheet in roll forms from 0.8mm to 6mm thickness and width of 610mm or 915mm and even 1 metre.

Uses of cork sheet

• Bulletin Boards
• Wall Coverings
• Table Mats, Trivets & Hot Pads
• Gaskets Die Cut Coasters & Discs
• Any Shape & Thickness

Introduction

The installation of the cork mosaic tiles includes two major steps that are gluing and grouting. Similar to the installation of ceramic or mosaic tiles, the cork mosaic installation require well- trained and skilled labours.

Important Note:

• The substrate on which the cork mosaic tiles are to be installed should be clean and free from loose or weak concrete, old adhesives, debris, dirt and any other contaminants as these can impact the bonding of the tiles
• The concrete to be used should be smooth and clean
• When installed at showers and spas for wet applications; crack prevention membranes, thin-set mortar adhesive and water-proofing are must
• Seal the drain and the edges around the shower with caulk to prevent water affecting the adhesion of cork mosaic tiles
• If the adhesive does not get fully dried up then it can trap moisture under the cork sheet that can further create problems in adhesion
• If standard grout is not mixed properly, it can cause gapping between cork and grout

Installation process:
Step-1:
Cut the cork mosaic sheet according to the floor size

Step-2:
Apply flexible water-based contact cement (ceramic thin set mortar in case of showers and spas) evenly on the surface

Step-3:

• In the open time of the adhesive used, make sure that each and every cork disc has been fixed properly
• Do not disturb the sheet before adhesive get dried completely
• Remove the plastic sheet over the cork mosaic sheet
• Staining is done on the sheet by applying a even coat of water-based wood stain (Minwax & Bona Kemi) on the sheet
• The staining is then followed by 2 more coats of water-based polyurethane

Step-4:

• Evenly fill all the joints in the cork sheet by applying urethane enhanced sanded grout (StarQuartz QuartzLock2 pre-mixed grout is highly recommended)
• Make sure that all the joints are smooth and does not have any voids or low spots

Step-5

• Within 10 minutes, before drying, clearly remove the grout from the top of the cork
• Use the sponge to clean off the grout completely from the cork sheet
• After 3-4 days when grout gets completely cured, apply 2 to 3 thin coats of water-based polyurethane evenly on the surface to seal the floor together (2-component wood sealer and finish such as Bona Kemi Traffic is preferred in case of wet applications)