I am interested in understanding the differences (pros and cons) in
the types of flooring that are readilbe available (at any major
flooring store or big box).  My goal is to understand which floor
systems are the most durable and would limit the potential for mold
and mildew growth.  For example-- cork seems to be durable, has stain
problems and I would think has high potential for mold due to the
number of air pockets

Hello -

Thank you for your question.  If you require any further information,
please don't hesitate to ask.

The World Floor Covering Association has all sorts of information
floor coverings.

This page seems to most specifically address your question:
Pros and Cons of Flooring Coverings by Room
http://www.wfca.org/flooringguide/guide.asp?tp=10&pg=4

The following comparison chart is a very general guideline to help you
when choosing a residential floor covering. These ratings will vary
from manufacturer to manufacturer and you should always refer to the
specific manufacturer's written documentation before purchasing a
floor. Always read carefully the manufacturer's warranty to see what
is covered under the warranty:
http://www.wfca.org/flooringguide/guide.asp?tp=9&pg=2

You can ask their experts questions for free:
http://www.wfca.org/flooringguide/ask.asp

I encourage you to visit the main site, where you can see all they
have to offer: http://www.wfca.org/

--

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation has a website that details the
advantages and considerations of several flooring choices; while it
doesn't give great detail on mildew and mold, it provides a very good
overview of various materials in terms of their strengths and
weaknesses:

http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/en/burema/gesein/abhose/abshose_064.cfm

---

FlooringGuide is another such site dedicated to information on the topic:
http://www.flooringguide.com/how-to/

--

Materials and mold susceptibility:
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/members/1999/suppl-3/505-508gravesen/gravesen-full.html#mate

A guide to controlling mold in the home:
www.gobroomecounty.com/ safety/ControllingMoldInTheHome.pdf

Search strategy:
flooring types cons pros
flooring types advantages OR disadvantages
flooring comparisons
flooring comparison
"choosing a floor covering"

nice job and great timing.  It is a little light on the mold issue but
so much of a leap forward that well worth a tip and 4 stars
Thanks you

pwd_trawler -

Thank you for the tip!  Please stop by again soon.

jbf777