The range of materials for interior decoration today is so diverse that it is difficult to stop at any one of them. To make an informed choice, you need to identify the advantages and disadvantages of all options. A novelty in the market of finishing materials - wall cork.
How cork is mined
One of the main advantages of cork is its high environmental friendliness. The material is completely natural, it is made from cork oak, which is found in countries such as Tunisia, Morocco, Portugal. Ardent defenders of nature will be pleasantly surprised that the raw materials for the preparation of future products are obtained in a way that is harmless to trees: the bark covering the trunk is manually removed from them every 9 years, subsequently it is restored, the life processes of the tree are not disturbed. With such amazing characteristics as durability, lightness and distinctive elasticity, wall cork owes its natural origin.
Role in the interior
The interior of the rooms, the walls of which are completely or partially made of cork,notable originality. It is an undeniable fact that such natural materials as wood or stone are able to compete with the work of famous artists in terms of originality of drawings and beauty. Thanks to a variety of natural, soothing shades, cork wall tiles can become a backdrop for any design accent and fit into an already finished interior. The gaze of the residents will subsequently rest on the soothing discreet color of the walls, and the elegant pattern, in which cracks and veins play intricately, will fascinate like a burning fire in a fireplace.
Many people think that cork can simplify the interior, but this is not so. With a suitable design, it will become associated with the Mediterranean style, and also bring a certain touch of antiquity - after all, this building material began to be used in the 16th century and has long passed its test of time. Fans of non-standard options should pay attention to cork in the form of a mosaic, from which you can make a multi-colored panel.
The best option for allergy sufferers
It's hard to appreciate the originality and beauty of a room if it shows allergy symptoms and it becomes difficult to breathe. Such troubles, even if they are frequent companions, can be forgotten when using cork for wall decoration. This is a real find for people who suffer from asthma and allergic manifestations. The basis of the plates for the walls is compressed crushed cork, which is waxed or simply polished. She doesn't have any scent. It also removes dirt easily. Wall cork does not attract dust and does not absorb ambient odors, even tobacco smoke. This material, in addition to high practicality, is distinguished by the fact that it does not hold static electricity and is not subject to combustion.
Heat preservation and soundproofing
Wall cork has excellent acoustic characteristics, which is very important for the interior decoration of rooms in the apartment. Increased sound insulation is provided by a special structure that absorbs sounds. It is worth noting that this material is often found in recording studios, and this already says a lot. Cork, being the same natural material as wood, perfectly retains heat. When decorating the walls of unheated rooms, for example, a balcony, in winter the temperature in them will be 8 degrees higher than outside the window.
Types of material
There are three types of coverings: cork panels, paper based wallpapers and rolls. The first of them has the highest sound and heat insulation, and the wallpaper, on the contrary, retains heat worse than the others. The same is true with durability: as the manufacturers assure, panels and rolls are absolutely not subject to wear, while the guarantee for the wallpaper is 10 years.
Wall stopper can be used in any room. In the bathroom, she is not afraid of humidity, and in the kitchen - various smells, grease and soot. This coating is able to bring diversity to the interior of the bathroom, because the usual tiles and tiles have become very annoying. Mold does not form on such walls, andthey do not dampen from condensation. Due to its hypoallergenic characteristics, cork can be used in bedrooms and children's rooms.
Despite the numerous advantages, perhaps, someone will not like the appearance - the lack of special effects, clear drawings, catchy screaming tones. Proponents of bright solutions will not suit cork with its brown natural range. But it is worth remembering that in some design solutions it can only be used to finish parts. Cork is chosen for its restraint, naturalness and warmth. When used as a finish, there is no doubt that the interior will last for many years and will always please the eye.
