Although only 15 percent of the cork harvested is used for wine bottle stoppers, that industry accounts for more than half of the money earned by cork producers. Understandably, wine makers get first pick of the available cork supply. Using stock that was not chosen by wine makers, as well as leftovers, flooring manufacturers grind cork into a uniform mixture. Then they add just enough adhesive to hold the material in shape, and press it into sheets. The squares and panels you see did not come straight from the tree.

Natural cork varies in color, and manufacturers sort it to produce a variety of tones. They may also  add dyes to give the cork flooring a more consistent or dramatic look. Common colors range from alabaster to espresso, with most variations on a continuum between khaki and chocolate. Visual texture varies, too. Some cork products have no more directional grain than sand on a beach; others have the appearance of burl oak.

As a result of its composition, cork flooring is not strong by itself. Only when it is installed on top of a stable subfloor does it take on the strength that complements its other qualities. Remember that cork flooring is loose material formed under pressure; the larger a square or sheet of cork is, the more expensive it is to create, the more fragile it is, and the harder it is to install. That’s why most cork flooring is sold in single tiles rather than rolls.

Once installed, a cork floor is comfortable underfoot, hard enough to withstand heavy foot traffic, soft enough to cushion falling objects, pleasant to look at, and resistant to fire, mold, and mildew. Its natural cushioning also adds insulation and helps control noise. With regular care, cork flooring will last for decades.