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It all depends on what you’re looking for in a floor. Cork flooring is certainly softer and more sound-absorbing than hardwood floors, and the two share very similar maintenance routines. That said, for some homeowners, the pristine appearance of hardwood floors may be more appealing, and they may be less prone to scratches and dents than cork flooring. Hardwood flooring also tends to be more expensive than cork flooring.

Not all attic floors are created equal—size, layout, and square footage often vary. The amount of weight an attic floor can hold depends on several factors including the joist size and position, any structural supports or subfloors, and the original intent of the attic design. Without structural reinforcement, your floor might only be able to support about 10 pounds per square foot of floor load before collapsing.

No, squeaky floors do not always mean there is structural damage. The noise is often caused by friction from issues like loose floorboards, gaps between the subfloor and joists, or loose subflooring. While many squeaks are harmless, persistent or worsening noise could indicate a more severe problem. If you notice other signs of structural damage—such as soft or sagging floors, cracks running from the wall to the ceiling, or horizontal cracks in your foundation—it's best to have a professional inspect your floor to determine the root cause.

Honestly, very few things in life are 100% anything—and that rule stands when it comes to waterproof flooring, too. Options like porcelain or ceramic tile are a lot closer to 100% waterproof than tiles and planks that have a fiberboard backing, like waterproof laminate or cork flooring. In all cases, it’s a good idea to wipe up wet spills as quickly as you can after they happen in order to avoid water damage.