Drift - EarthTone Elements Glue Down Cork Tiles

Why Cork Tiles Are Safe for Bathrooms (And Click Cork Isn't)

This is one of the most common questions we get, and it's worth explaining clearly.

Click cork flooring — including our EarthTone Click and Montano ranges — has an HDF (high density fibreboard) core that gives the planks their rigidity and makes the click-fit system work.

HDF can be vulnerable to swelling when exposed to sustained moisture or humidity, which is why click cork isn't recommended for bathrooms.

EarthTone Elements are different. They're made from pure cork throughout — no HDF, no composite layers. Cork is naturally moisture tolerant, and because there's no HDF to swell, these tiles can be used safely in bathrooms, en-suites, kitchens and utility rooms.

They're glued directly to the subfloor, creating a solid, stable installation that won't lift or buckle in humid conditions.

If you've been told cork flooring isn't suitable for bathrooms, that's true of click cork — but not of pure cork glue-down tiles like EarthTone Elements.

Large Format Tiles for a Contemporary Look

At 600 x 300mm, EarthTone Elements are considerably larger than our standard EarthTone square tiles (300 x 300mm). The larger format creates a more contemporary, open feel — fewer join lines, a cleaner aesthetic, and a look that works particularly well in modern kitchens and bathrooms.

If you prefer the traditional square tile format, our EarthTone Glue Down tiles offer the same moisture tolerance in a classic 300 x 300mm size.

Is EarthTone Elements Compatible With Underfloor Heating?

Yes — EarthTone Elements work well with underfloor heating. Cork's natural thermal insulation properties make it an efficient pairing with underfloor heating systems.

Follow standard acclimatisation guidelines and ensure the subfloor temperature stays within the limits recommended by your underfloor heating manufacturer.

Installation

EarthTone Elements are installed by gluing directly to a prepared subfloor. The subfloor must be smooth, level, dry and free from dust and grease before installation begins.

We recommend Wakol D3540 adhesive for installation and Lobadur Easyfinish as the sealing varnish —
applying 1–2 coats to pre-finished tiles, or 3-4 coats to unfinished tiles.

Allow a minimum of 24 hours drying time after installation before applying varnish. Full installation instructions are included with every order.