The History Cork Flooring

Cork oak forests are found primarily in seven different countries: Algeria, Portugal, Tunisia, Italy, Spain, Morocco and France. They cover approximately 2.5 million hectares combined. Cork Trees occupy large areas, approximately 2.5 million hectares combined, and are constantly reproducing. These areas are situated west of the mediterranian basin and on the Atlantic coast, and generally close to local vineyards. Cork trees need little rain, some degree of humidity, and alot of sunlight. They tend to thrive best in altitudes ranging up to 1,400 meters (above sea Sea-level).

The cork tree has an average life span of 250 - 350 years. The first or "virgin" harvest of cork bark is usually stripped when the tree reaches 20 to 25 years old. The virgin cork has a harder and more irregular structure. Once the virgin cork has been removed a new layer of cork starts to regenerate and the harvesting cycle begins. It takes approximately 9 years after the first harvest for a second layer to grow. This layer is called the "secondary cork" and all layers harvested there after are known as "amadia".

A typical cork tree gives several hundred kilograms of raw cork with each harvested layer and will produce for many generations. The stripping of cork bark is done in a sustainable manner by skilled workers without any harm to the tree. Cork production is assured with new plantations every year. New trees are usually planted annually to maintain production. Cutting down, removing or destroying these valuable trees is avoided and often prohibited by local government.

Portugal has been very protective of this resource and have protection regulations dating back to the 14th century. As they produce more than 50% of the world"s cork, starting early in the 20th century it became illegal to cut down the trees other than for essential cultivation, preservation and removing non-productive trees.

Cork exists as the only tree whose bark can regularly be removed for harvest and regenerate on it's own without any harm to the tree itself. This places cork on the top of the list for truely green, renewable, and environmentally friendly resources.

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