Cork floor ing-any experts in the subject?

[TBM]

We are considering using it in all of the bedrooms and the living room and one hallway at the new house.  We would leave the the ceramic tile in the kitchen and the hall off the kitchen, (and will eventually replace those with different tile).  If it wasn't for the fading issue, I would put the cork (glue down) in there as well, but with all of the windows, it just isn't going to happen.



Which is better...glue down (costs less up front but has higher prep costs), or floating (costs more, but is an easier install)?  It is a slab foundation. 

Prefinished (which has a longer warranty)?   Or finished on site, (better seal on joints/seams, needs to have finish recoated-different recommendations on how often)? 

Any brand recommendations?  I know there are huge differences in durability/quality.



I've been trying to research, and now I am just confused. lol   It probably doesn't help that I was researching when I had a headache, but it was the only time that I could justify not spending it going through stuff/purging/packing.  Now that I don't have the headache, I have to get back to work.;p

Any information appreciated. TIA

[housegeek]

You're in FL right? Have you looked up/ talked to a manufacturer about humidity and swelling?

[TBM]

Feb 24, 2013 17:54:13 GMT -5 housegeek said:

You're in FL right? Have you looked up/ talked to a manufacturer about humidity and swelling?

We will be in FL.

From what I have read, the cork can expand and contract (same with everything), so if you are using a floating floor it should be installed on a day with normal humidity and moderate temps, and the cork should be acclimated.  The planks should be glued on the seams so that the seams don't gap when there is movement.  The glue down type has to be acclimated, and should be caulked before baseboards are installed to prevent moisture from getting under, but that's all they said.  That and that the cork floors should be sealed.



That's all I know.