Only if we use the right ecological materials where they add the most value can we continue to ensure long-term sustainability.
Cork is one of nature’s most remarkable materials: insulating, moisture- and mold-resistant, fire-retardant, soundproofing, self-cleaning and water-resistant.
Cork mortar is designed so that it can be applied in a layer of only a few millimeters, while providing the same thermal insulation as other ecological materials that are thicker.
If you want to work with ecological materials, use cork mortar where it really adds value:
Façade insulation: On buildings or houses where adding thick layers of insulation is not possible, due to design or space. In addition, cork mortar is resistant to urine and the self-cleaning properties of cork mortar reduce the need for maintenance in urban environments.
Restorations of historic buildings and houses: In restorations, it is not always desirable to apply thick layers of insulation and cork mortar is also a good alternative. Furthermore, its fire-resistant and termite-resistant properties protect the building. And it can be applied by trowel, airless, mortar sprayer or roller so it is suitable for different surfaces and applications.
Fireproof insulation of wooden houses: Buildings and houses with wooden frame or environmentally friendly houses where the risk of fire is high. And due to the flexibility of cork, cracks in the stucco will not occur.
Crawlspaces and basements: cork mortar is a good option for areas prone to water infiltration, such as crawlspaces and basements due to its waterproof, termite- and rodent-resistant properties.
Insulation and moisture control of wet areas: In damp areas such as bathrooms, cork mortar is a good choice because of its moisture resistance, mold prevention and waterproofing properties.
Acoustic insulation: Its ability to reduce sound transmission exceeds other ecological materials. And because it is applied in a thin layer, the dimensions of the room hardly change.
Cork mortar is not the standard solution for every job.
We can best reserve the material for situations where its unique properties are really necessary: apply in a thin layer, insulating, moisture and mold resistant, termite and rodent resistant, fire retardant, sound deadening, self-cleaning, flexible, vapor-permeable, waterproof and can be applied with stucco trowel, airless, mortar gun and roller.
Even as we build greener, we must continue to think critically.
By using cork where it truly adds value, we can continue to ensure the long-term sustainability of cork.
