FAQ: Got Questions? We Bet You Do!
- Can cork walls really block out noisy neighbours or traffic?
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You’d be surprised! While cork won’t turn your lounge into a silent chamber, it does a bonza job reducing airborne noise like voices, footsteps, and traffic hum.
- Do I need tradie experience to install cork panels or tiles?
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Nah mate! With a steady hand and our guide, any DIYer can smash it out over a weekend.
- Will cork make my room look like a 70s pub?
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Only if you want it to! PortCork’s cork tiles are modern, sleek, and can be stained or finished to match your vibe.
- What’s better – cork sheets or tiles for walls?
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Depends on your wall and budget. Tiles are great for aesthetics and targeted areas, while sheets work better for full coverage and smoother finishes.
- Do I need any special glue or tools?
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Yep, and we’ve got you sorted. Check out our range of adhesives like Bostik Ultraset Sausage or Mapei Ultra Bond P990 – cork-friendly and tough as nails.
Why Cork for Soundproofing?
The Science Behind Cork’s Acoustic Superpowers
Cork’s got natural properties that make it a deadset winner for soundproofing. Each cork cell is like a teeny air bubble – these bubbles absorb vibrations and stop sound from bouncing around. This helps reduce echo, dampen noise, and create a calmer, more peaceful home.
Unlike traditional insulation or heavy drywall tricks, cork does the job without bulking up your walls. Lightweight, breathable and natural – how good’s that?
Sustainable, Stylish and Aussie Approved
Cork’s harvested from the bark of cork oak trees – without cutting the tree down. That means you get a green tick while also improving your home.
Plus, it adds a warm, earthy aesthetic that fits right into modern Aussie homes. Whether you’re in a Federation-style Queenslander or a minimalist inner-city apartment, cork adds comfort without looking daggy.
Step-by-Step DIY Cork Soundproofing Guide
Step 1 – Identify the Noise Offenders
First things first – where’s the sound sneaking in?
- Shared walls with neighbours?
- Street-facing windows?
- TV blaring through a paper-thin bedroom wall?
Mark these areas – that’s where you’ll focus your cork magic.
Step 2 – Choose the Right Cork Product
Not all cork is created equal. For walls, you’ll want something dense enough to block airborne noise but also easy enough to install.
- Perfect for: Covering medium-to-large wall sections
- Benefits: Dense, natural acoustic dampening
- Price on PortCork: $247.50 (excl. GST)
- Perfect for: Smaller DIY jobs or layering under plasterboard
- Benefits: Super flexible, thermal and acoustic insulation
- Price on PortCork: $33.00 (excl. GST)
Step 3 – Prep Your Wall Like a Pro
- Clean the surface: No dust, no grease, no worries.
- Fix cracks and gaps: Fill any holes with filler. Gaps = noise leaks.
- Mark your layout: Plan the pattern, especially for tiles.
Step 4 – Installation Time: Let’s Cork it Up
You’ll need:
- A notched trowel or roller
- Soundproofing glue (like Bostik Ultraset Sausage)
- A spirit level
- A bit of Aussie grit
How to do it:
- Apply glue directly onto the wall or back of cork tile.
- Press cork firmly starting from one corner and work your way across.
- Use a level to keep it straight.
- Wipe off any excess glue as you go.
Step 5 – Seal, Finish & Admire
- For a raw, natural look – leave cork as-is.
- For extra flair – stain, oil or finish with Loba Easy Finish for added protection and polish.
You can even paint over cork tiles if that’s your thing. Either way, you’ve just given your wall a full acoustic makeover, mate.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
- Double up: Want extra noise control? Layer cork with acoustic plasterboard.
- Mind the gaps: Soundproofing is only as good as the weakest link – don’t leave tiny cracks unsealed.
- Glue matters: Don’t cheap out. Use quality adhesives like:
- Bostik Ultraset Sausage – $10.00 (excl. GST)
- Mapei Ultra Bond P990 – $10.00 (excl. GST)
- Don’t forget underlay: Installing cork underlay on floors or behind wall tiles improves performance heaps.
Why You Should Choose PortCork
PortCork isn’t just about flooring – we’re your go-to mate for all things cork across Australia. Whether you’re laying down stylish floorboards or kitting out your media room to block out the neighbour’s drum kit, we’ve got your back.
Here’s why PortCork is a ripper choice:
- We know cork: Our tiles come from the best cork in Portugal – the good stuff.
- We support Aussie DIYers: From floor to ceiling, we’ve got what you need.
- Fast delivery, fair dinkum service: Whether you’re in Brisbane or Broome, we’ll sort you out.
Ready to cork up the chaos?
Head to PortCork’s Shop now and grab your cork tiles, expansion boards and glues to get started. Whether you’re tackling one wall or a whole house, we’ll help you silence the racket in style.
