Expanko Vallarex cork floating floor offers the benefits of cork with the ease and versatility of a glueless installation. Vallarex can be installed in many residential installations as well as select commercial applications. Cork, a proven flooring material since the 1920s, is hand harvested from the cork oak tree in the Iberian Peninsula (Portugal and Spain). The cork bark is ground up, compressed with millions of air-filled cells and baked to produce the different colors. The end result is a floor that:
- is quiet and comfortable to walk on--which your knees and bones will enjoy
- offers excellent acoustical qualities
- is extremely durable and easy to maintain.
Dimensions: Each plank is 12" x 36" x 1/2" (nominal). Square feet per box: 30 (10 planks per box). It is advised to determine the amount of square footage you need, then add 5-10% to calculate the number of boxes you need.
Construction: Vallarex consists of three layers of the highest quality raw materials:
- The top layer is hand-selected cork, finished with three coats of factory applied Bona Kemi Traffic water-based matte polyurethane. This finish offers superior performance and is suitable for heavy commercial installations.
- The core middle-layer is high-density fiberboard, which adds strength and durability, is made of recycled post-production waste and milled with a tongue-and-groove to provide a strong water-resistant bond between floor planks.
- The bottom of the plank is cork underlayment, which enhances the acoustical properties and acts as a stabilizer.
Installation Guidelines:- Vallarex can be installed over different substrates including plywood, concrete and existing floor coverings (hardwood, vinyl, etc.) that are smooth, level (1/8" in 10') and clean. All sub-floors must be in good condition and structurally sound.
- Vallarex may be installed on grade, above grade, and below grade. Moisture tests need to be done in below grade installations.
- Do not install Vallarex over carpet or in bathrooms with showers or tubs.
- Vallarex should be installed with a 3/8" to 1/2" gap between the planks and the walls of the room. You can fill that gap with our Titebond or AFM caulk for added protection from migrating water.
- Furniture and appliances may cause indentations which when moved will not 100% recover, as may stiletto high heel shoes. Indentations will not reduce the floor life. Since cork is not perfectly smooth due to the air cells when brand new, the "patina" of an aged cork floor gives it a nice character.
Fading: Like any naturally colored products, cork is susceptible to fading if exposure to UV rays and heat is not limited. Expanko cork floors are coated with a UV inhibiting finish which will significantly improve fade resistance but not prevent it. In areas under rugs and furniture, fading will not occur and when moved will contrast with the faded areas. Expanko highly recommends the use of window treatments and windows treated with UV protective coating.
Maintenance: regular sweeping and mopping with a well wrung out damp mop and a "green" general purpose cleaner. Download the Maintenance Instructions for more info.
Lead Time: This is a special order item and usually has a lead time from the manufacturer of 3-7 days.
Shipping: Shipping costs may apply for this product depending on your quantity and location. We will contact you before processing your order to discuss.
Downloads (open in new browser windows):
Vallarex Installation Instructions
Vallarex Care and Maintenance
Applying Poly on Prefinished Cork
Technical Specifications
Warranty Information