Cork: but not in a bathroom?

Siesta Cork Tile

Much as I like a cosy carpet, my eldest has multiple allergies that include household dust so I wanted to find a hard floor that didn't break the bank.

We had the budget for laminate but I've found it a bit slippy underfoot. I then came across Siesta Cork Tiles. Warm and slightly springy underfoot they come in a range of colours.

We plan to use it in all the bedrooms and the hall.

Top tips

• Rather than buying the tiles direct, ask your fitter if you then can get them cheaper.
• The joins between tiles aren't very obvious once it's laid but it's worth talking through with your fitter how they're going to cut it into the door way or other noticeable areas. Our walls are completely off so the job definitely required some skill
• You need a few hours for the sealant to dry before you can walk on them. 

Uh oh moment

•  Our fitter slightly under ordered the tiles for one of the rooms. He had to come back to fit them. I was a bit worried that they would look different to the rest but they matched perfectly. 

Did you know? 

• Cork is the outer bark from an evergreen oak found in southwest Europe and northwest Africa. It's harvested during the winter time when the tree is dormant.
• Naturally fire retardant, it's also sound and heat absorbing.
• You can view a good video of the harvesting process here.