There are few building materials that are quite as versatile as spray cork. It’s an excellent way to add effective insulation to a building. In addition, it can protect buildings from water damage, fire, mold, and similar problems. And, as an added benefit, spray cork is a completely natural, non-toxic substance sourced from sustainable forests. Plus, you can apply it to virtually any surface on a building (and outside it!).
Taking a Closer Look at Cork
Cork is sourced from the outer bark of the cork oak tree. These amazing trees primarily grow in the Mediterranean region. In fact, Portugal and Spain are the world’s leading suppliers of cork. In this region of the world, brushfires are common and rainfall is relatively low. This caused the cork oak tree to evolve to have an exceptionally thick, protective layer of bark. It’s this bark that specially trained professionals harvest to produce cork products.
Cork is eco-friendly because the tree is not harmed during the harvest. In fact, harvesting these trees actually helps them live longer. An average cork oak tree can yield about 15 harvests during its lifetime (spaced about nine years apart). Homeowners in the U.S. and Europe have been embracing these cork products because they are sustainably sourced from responsibly managed forests. Plus, the cork itself is impressive. Its composition of cells looks like an interlocking honeycomb layered with pockets that trap air.
Applying Spray Cork to Almost Any Surface
One of the many benefits of this all-purpose solution is that it can be applied to nearly any surface. It readily adheres to metal roofing panels and roof shingles. Furthermore, cork installers can apply the material directly on top of an existing roof—with no need for a costly tear-off!
In addition to roofing materials, cork can cover interior flooring, including laminate, ceramic, marble, composite materials, cement, and natural stone. You can also use it for outdoor walking surfaces. Plus, you can apply spray cork to interior and exterior walls. This product really is a jack-of-all-trades.
Using Spray Cork to Repair Structures
One major problem with traditional building materials is that they do not adequately expand and contract with changes in temperature. As the ambient temperature rises, building materials can expand subtly. Similarly, as the temperature drops, the material contracts or shrinks. Over time, this can cause cracks to develop in the siding, walls, and foundation.
Unlike most building materials, spray cork has a remarkable ability to expand and contract along with the changes in the temperature—without losing its integrity. Cork is naturally flexible, elastic, and resilient, allowing it to adapt to changes in the environment. This makes it the ideal material for repairing existing cracks in structures.
Adding Eco-Friendly Insulation to Buildings
No matter which type of climate you live in, insulation is crucial for maintaining a pleasant indoor environment while cutting heating and cooling costs. Spray cork makes an ideal insulation as it is supremely resistant to heat transfer. In other words, it helps keep buildings cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. In fact, spray cork is particularly ideal for commercial buildings with metal siding, as well as residential homes. Furthermore, it only takes a few millimeters of spray cork insulation to achieve its optimal insulating properties.
Waterproofing Roofs and Outdoor Spaces
Cork is unique in that it features excellent breathability while still remaining water-resistant. This makes it an ideal coating for roofs. Simply spray the product directly on the existing roof to tightly seal it against leaks. You can use it to either prevent leaks or fix existing leaks. In addition, you can get the same waterproofing benefit for other outdoor spaces, such as patios and balconies.
Fighting Off Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are a nightmare for homeowners. No one wants to smell that musty odor or risk the health problems associated with toxic mold. Fortunately, spray cork is resistant to mold and mildew spores. This makes it an ideal coating for nearly any building surface! Plus, unlike many other building materials, spray cork contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It’s completely non-toxic!
Achieving Your Picture-Perfect Look
Protecting your home or commercial building is likely your top priority. However, it’s also important to maintain the look you want. Spray cork is a remarkably aesthetically pleasing choice. In fact, you can customize it in your choice of color to match your existing décor. Spray cork is available in nearly any color you might want for your building, including beige, yellow, gray, pink, red, orange, green, blue, and black.
Here at ThermalCork Solutions, we believe in providing the best possible product at an affordable price point in order to increase accessibility to this exceptionally effective insulator and surface coating. Our knowledgeable team will be happy to help you select the right spray cork product for your desired application, and our professional installers can expertly complete your project for you. Give us a call today at (402) 900-0720 for more information