Are cork floors affected by moisture and temperature changes?

Cork floors are subject to expansion and contraction due to climate and exposure to elements. During heating season, moisture is lost and the tiles may contract slightly showing small spaces between the planks. When moisture levels increase, the tiles will expand. Cork, as a rule, is more stable than wood flooring because when wood expands, it does so only in the direction of the grain. However, when Cork expands, the dispersed is in all directions. During Cork floor installation, the following precautions should be taken: If installing in the winter; once the planks have been acclimated, do not install the joins too tightly as the floor can go through an expansion period months later. In summer, after the tile have been acclimated, it is necessary to butt the tiles together tightly since dry heat will cause them to contract in winter.