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The various types of cork insulation boards differ according to production, structure, and application. Often these differences are related to density, thickness, and composition, which then define where each type of insulation cork board can be used effectively.
Expanded cork insulation boards are produced using cork granules that are expanded through exposure to steam and heat. This process generates a highly resistant and lightweight insulating material that is exceptionally great at thermal and acoustic insulation. Expanded cork insulation boards are often applied in:
Walls
Roofs
Floors
These boards typically feature a characteristic honeycomb structure that provides it good buoyancy and insulation performance.
Granulated cork boards take it a step further by using ground cork granules mixed with a binder under heat and pressure to form rigid boards. This type of cork board is very compact, cork agglomeration boards having good features for sound absorption and thermal insulation.
Granulated cork boards are best suited for indoor use, such as:
Cork acoustic insulation boards are designed explicitly to minimize sound transmission. Further, they are constructed from the same cork material, expanding granules. All this together gives it excellent sound-absorbing properties. They can be identified easily by their often wavy surface texture, which helps absorb sound better.
Wall coverings
Theatre and concert hall ceilings
Floor underlay in residential and commercial buildings
In these spaces, reducing echoes and noise levels creates a more comfortable environment for occupational and living use.
Cork board insulation is a conventional cork board that is primarily aimed at providing thermal insulation. Further, it is made from high-density cork, which is excellent at keeping structures warm during cold weather and vice versa. This insulation board works great for:
Walls
Roofs
Flooring
It is especially popular in renovation and new building projects because of its natural beauty and eco-friendliness.
Cork insulation boards are constructed to be durable and resilient. In fact, they withstand the rigors of environmental changes and daily use alike. A look at the features that contribute to the long-lasting nature of cork insulation boards:
Natural Closure System of Cork Cells
The cells of a cork stopper are naturally closed throughout its structure. This is much like a honeycomb, which makes it buoyant, lightweight, and very resistant. These cork cells trap air and enable them to cushion impact and resist compressive force. As a result, cork insulation boards do not sag or lose thickness over time.
Resistant to Rot and Mould
Cork is a naturally resistant material to rot and mould. It is derived from the cork oak tree's bark. Since it's a plant-based material, it contains a compound called suberin that helps resist moisture and decay. This indicates that cork insulation boards are viable and functional in high humidity areas like basements or kitchens and bathrooms.
Temperature Extremes
Cork insulation boards are produced to perform well in very high and low temperature. Hence, they do not degrade or lose their insulating properties like other materials.
Impact Resistance
Due to its dense structure and buoyancy, it can withstand significant wear. Thus, cork insulation is especially useful in high-traffic areas or where physical impacts are expected to occur. Furthermore, cork insulation boards can also be used under floors where furniture displacement is likely.
UV radiation resistance
Cork insulation boards are produced to be resistant to UV rays. Many materials degrade when exposed to sunlight. Not cork, though! Cork's natural compounds shield it from damage by sunlight. This makes cork versatile for interior and exterior applications.
Choosing the appropriate cork insulation board is dependent on several factors, which include performance criteria, application area, and environmental considerations. Buyers must consider the following aspects to make an informed decision:
Different cork insulation boards carry unique R-values, which signify the thermal resistance of the material. A higher R-value indicates better insulating capability. Those insulating boards manufactured for extremely cold or hot weather would be best suitable outdoor and in extreme climates.
Acoustic performance is another feature derived from the nature of cork insulation boards. Acoustic cork boards improve soundproofing efficiency with their thick, dense structure and sound absorption capability. On the other hand, standard cork boards are usually designed exclusively for general insulation.
In flooring, high-buoyancy insulation, such as expanded cork boards or cork acoustic insulation boards, does well. Architectural projects benefit from granulated cork boards due to their compactness and ease of installation. Thermal performance is critical while selecting boards for walls or roofs to ensure adequate energy conservation.
Cork insulation boards typically resist moisture, mould, and rot. But some perform better than others in high-humidity areas such as basements, kitchens, or bathrooms. Look for cork boards treated for wet conditions or with higher density when they are intended for use in spaces with significant moisture levels.
Among all insulation materials, cork is the eco-friendliest due to the nature of its sourcing and production. However, some products may be more sustainable based on their production methods or whether they contain recycled granules. The sustainability certification of a product, such as FSC or PEFC, is also critical in proving its eco-friendly credentials.
The thickness and density of cork insulation boards impact their insulation power and suitability for various applications. Typically, thicker boards offer higher R-values and improved thermal insulation. Density, meanwhile, influences buoyancy, sound absorption, and board durability. High-density boards provide greater acoustic insulation because they can better absorb sound waves than lower-density ones.
Creating cork insulation boards can be a complicated process. It would require knowledge of cork agglomeration and board compression, heat application, grinding, and bonding. This is not to mention material sourcing, equipment procurement, safety application, and quality control. Therefore, it's generally not considered a feasible DIY project for small-scale operations or individuals. Only a cork production facility can handle the creation of cork boards due to its technical nature and required industrial equipment.
However, cork insulation boards can be applied in numerous DIY home projects. Cork insulation boards have insulating and eco-friendly properties, making them ideal as a sustainable home improvement material. Below are several self-help projects that can enhance living and work conditions using cork insulation boards:
Insulating a wall is beneficial when upgrading and improving thermal efficiency. Cork acoustic insulation boards are energy-efficient and can help decrease heating and cooling energy use. Besides, they add comfort to the home by keeping the interior temperature stable.
For installation, measure the wall area, then cut the cork board to size. Affix the pieces to the wall using glue or adhesive. Finally, seal by applying drywall or another finish over the cork.
Cork insulation boards are comfortable underfoot, making them perfect for high-traffic areas like living spaces and offices. Installing cork flooring can help regulate temperature, thus providing an added touch of comfort.
The piece of cork flooring should be measured to fit the area. The pieces can then be glued directly to the subfloor or laid on top of a cork underlayment.
Cork boards for ceilings can help improve thermal insulation and reduce energy consumption in a building. They can also keep ceilings cool in hot weather. All this makes them ideal for use in rooms where heat accumulates, such as kitchens or attics.
These boards should be measured to size and glued directly to the ceiling. Alternatively, they can be framed and suspended from the ceiling.
A1: Cork insulating boards should be positioned using construction adhesive or mechanical fasteners. Butt joints should be staggered while boards should be measured to leave no gap or have minimal gap. Appropriate sealing must be done at seams and edges.
A2: Yes, it can be! Cork insulation boards are recyclable. In fact, cork stops production facilities recycle used corks to make new insulation boards. Some manufacturers offer programs to return used cork boards for recycling.
A3: Cork insulation boards naturally resist pests. This is because it contains suberin, a compound that keeps termites and rodents away. It also discourages insects from harming the material.
A4: Cork insulation boards outperform most other insulating materials in energy efficiency, eco-friendliness, and durability. They may not insulate as well as spray foam or fiberglass in an R-value. But the sustainability and health benefits give cork a huge edge over its competitors.
A5: Cork insulation boards are produced from harvested cork oak tree bark, then granulating bark into pieces. These pieces are compressed into boards, with heat and adhesives added to bind them. The boards are then cut into the preferred sizes and shapes.
