Why Cork Wall Coatings Are a Game-Changer for Your Home – And the Planet

If you're looking to upgrade your home with a finish that not only looks great but also reduces your energy bills, improves indoor comfort, and protects the environment - cork wall coatings might just be the hidden gem you've been searching for.

Used inside and out, cork-based coatings like SprayCork by CorkSol UK deliver a powerful blend of performance and sustainability. Here’s why they’re growing in popularity across the UK and beyond.

What Are Cork Wall Coatings?
Spray applied cork coatings are made from natural cork granules — harvested from the bark of cork oak trees. These coatings form a durable, breathable layer over walls, ceilings, and even problem surfaces like cracked render or asbestos.
They’re available for both exterior and interior use:
• Exterior: Weatherproof and insulative render alternative
• Interior: Thermal, acoustic, and decorative wall finishes

The Benefits for Homeowners
1. Thermal Comfort & Energy Efficiency
Cork contains over 50% air, making it a superb natural insulator. Products like SprayCork can reduce heat loss through walls by up to 30%, helping keep homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer — without expensive retrofits.
Whether you're improving a cold conservatory or insulating a converted garage, cork creates a more consistent, comfortable temperature year-round.

2. Eliminates Damp, Mould & Condensation
Cork’s cellular structure is both breathable and water-resistant — a rare and valuable combination. It allows moisture to escape from your walls while stopping water ingress from the outside. That makes it a powerful tool for preventing:
• Black mould
• Surface condensation
• Damp patches
• Cold bridging
Ideal for older homes, basements, and anywhere with persistent moisture problems.

3. Crack Resistance & Durability
Unlike traditional renders or emulsion paints, cork coatings remain flexible after application. That means they:
• Can bridge hairline cracks and movement joints
• Won’t flake or peel over time
• Require minimal maintenance
CorkSol also offer a 25-year product warranty

4. Improves Acoustics
Cork naturally absorbs sound and vibration, helping reduce:
• External noise (traffic, neighbours, wind)
• Internal echo and reverberation
This makes it especially valuable in flats, home offices, or homes near busy roads.

5. Non-Toxic & Healthier Living
Cork is:
• Hypoallergenic
• Antistatic
• VOC-free (no harmful chemical emissions)
• Odourless
This makes it perfect for asthma sufferers, allergy-prone households, and those seeking better indoor air quality.

6. Beautiful, Natural Finish
Whether it’s a fresh modern render or a warm, textured wall inside, cork provides a natural look that’s tactile, timeless, and highly customisable. And SprayCork is available in a wide range of colours, allowing for the perfect finish for every property.

Why It’s Great for the Planet Too
🌳 Sustainable and Renewable
Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees — without cutting the tree down. Each tree can be harvested every 9 years, and they live up to 200 years.

These forests support:
• Biodiversity
• Soil and water conservation
• Local economies
• Carbon capture

In fact, cork oak trees absorb more CO₂ after each harvest, making it a powerful ally in the fight against climate change.

🔁 Circular Economy and Recycling
Cork waste is never wasted. Manufacturing offcuts from making cork stoppers are:
• Recycled into flooring, wall coverings, or insulation
• Used as biomass energy in factory production, reducing fossil fuel reliance
This creates a low-waste, closed-loop system.

🔥 Low Fire Risk
Cork is slow to ignite, doesn't release toxic smoke, and self-extinguishes — offering an extra layer of fire safety without chemicals.

Real-World Applications
Cork coatings can be used in a huge range of settings:
• Exterior render replacement (especially cracked or damaged walls)
• Interior feature walls or cold spots (behind radiators, in stairwells, etc.)
• Conservatory ceilings (cut glare and temperature swings)
• Garage conversions and home offices
• Holiday lets looking for natural, low-maintenance charm
• Heritage buildings needing breathable, flexible finishes

Are There Any Drawbacks?
Like all products, cork coatings aren’t a silver bullet. Key considerations include:
• Application must be done by trained professionals (through the CorkSol Independent Applicator Network)
• Surface prep is important – poor substrate = poor performance
• Not a thick-layer EWI system
But when specified correctly, cork delivers exceptional long-term value.

The Bottom Line: Good for You, Great for the Planet
Cork wall coatings represent a rare combination of style, substance, and sustainability.

They make your home:
• Warmer
• Quieter
• Drier
• Healthier
• More energy-efficient
…while giving back to the environment through sustainable forestry, carbon sequestration, and renewable production.

Interested in Cork for Your Home?
If you're considering a cork coating for your project — internal or external — we're happy to advise of SprayCorks suitability, whilst a member of the Independent Applicator Network can assess your needs and provide a tailored solution.

Want help finding an Independent Applicator, getting a quote, or learning more about cork’s performance in your area? Just get in touch - we’re happy to help!