Flooring for a 3-Season Porch

Q: I have an existing 3-season porch/sunroom (completely enclosed but no heat or air conditioning) and I want to finish the floor… It’s currently just a plywood subfloor and I’m looking for good flooring suggestions. I like the look of cork and also considered laminate but I don’t know if these materials will stand up to the seasonal temperature changes (I live in Minnesota). Any suggestions will be appreciated.
Joe
A: Despite being fully enclosed, with the temperature changes you can expect to see in Minnesota it can be a bit much for a wood floor. Your best bet would be something like a stone/tile or vinyl floor.
Cork can be effective here, but you will want to ensure the floor is well acclimated before installation. With a floating cork, be ready to seem some minor gaps in winter as the planks contract from the cold.
You could also look into an engineered hardwood as the plies will help to prevent some expansion and contraction; however, much like I mentioned with cork, be prepared to see some gaps. Also, make sure plenty of expansion room is left around the perimeter of the floor for the summer months. Much like engineered, laminate has potential here, but expect the same problems.
Overall your safest bet would be something like vinyl or stone, but if you want cork or hardwood it can be done, you just need to be prepared for what the changes in season will do to the floor without climate control and ensure plenty of expansion room is left around the edges of the floor.