Cork floors

We live in an upstairs circa 1935 apartment that is in dire need of an update (looks like the last time this was done was in the 70’s). There is no doubt there are some beautiful original floorboards under our worn out carpet, we’ve seen the neighbours’ floors. BUT, we are very conscious of the noise issues and are exploring our options to find something that will give a contemporary look but is well insulated (and affordable).

We are considering cork flooring and are wondering whether it will be a suitable sound insulator of both impact and ambient sound (the man downstairs plays computer games at such a volume it comes up through our carpeted floors and can be heard over the top of our television, so ambient sound insulation is important in both directions).

There are cork planks, made of 1.8mm integrated cork underlay, 6mm high density fiberboard, and a 3.2mm top layer of cork. It is then finished with UV laquer. The brochure claims “Impact sound reduction 16dB” and “IIC Insulation Class 58dB”. I confess I don’t fully understand what this means and whether it is even a good or bad rating!

There are also cork tiles made from 3.2mm cork. It claims “Impact sound reduction 8dB” and “Step Sound 70dB”. Also finished with lacquer.

Has anybody had experience with these cork products? Will they provide good sound insulation for us and our neighbor?

Thank you!