When customers approach us about premium flooring options, Karndean is frequently mentioned. At Abernethy Bespoke Flooring, we specialise in a range of high-quality flooring solutions including vinyl floor fitting and installation of luxury vinyl products. Karndean stands out as one of the most respected names in luxury vinyl flooring, but many homeowners aren’t familiar with what makes it so special. This guide explains everything you need to know about Karndean flooring and why it might be the perfect choice for your home.
Understanding Karndean Flooring
Karndean Designflooring isn’t actually a type of flooring—it’s a brand that has become so prominent in the luxury vinyl tile (LVT) market that many people refer to LVT as “Karndean flooring.” This British company has established itself as a leader in manufacturing premium vinyl flooring that replicates the appearance of natural materials with remarkable authenticity.
What distinguishes Karndean from standard vinyl flooring is the exceptional detail in their designs. Each plank or tile features unique patterns, textures, and variations—just like you’d find in genuine wood or stone. The difference? Karndean offers this natural beauty without the practical drawbacks of organic materials.
The Composition of Karndean Flooring
Karndean’s impressive performance comes from its sophisticated 5-layer construction:
- Two PVC backing layers provide stability and structure
- High-definition photographic layer creates the authentic wood or stone appearance
- Clear PVC embossed wear layer adds texture and durability
- Polyurethane protective coating as the final layer for maximum protection
This comprehensive structure results in flooring that not only looks stunning but also stands up to the demands of busy households. The main materials include calcium carbonate (limestone), polyvinyl chloride, and various pigments—all engineered to create a floor that combines beauty with practicality.
Why Homeowners Choose Karndean
Exceptional Durability
The wear layer in Karndean flooring is specifically engineered to resist scratches, scuffs, and stains. Even in high-traffic areas, these floors maintain their appearance for years. This resilience makes Karndean an ideal choice for families with children, pet owners, or commercial spaces.
Most Karndean products come with lifetime domestic warranties, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in their durability. For commercial applications, warranties typically range from 15-20 years depending on the specific range.
Practical Benefits
Unlike natural wood flooring, Karndean is:
- Completely waterproof – perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements
- Warmer underfoot than stone or ceramic tile
- Quiet to walk on with excellent acoustic properties
- Compatible with underfloor heating
- Simple to clean with regular sweeping and occasional mopping
For homeowners seeking the warmth and character of wood without the maintenance concerns, Karndean offers an appealing alternative to traditional timber floors.
Design Versatility
Karndean’s design flexibility truly sets it apart. Their collections include:
- Authentic wood effects from oak and pine to exotic woods
- Natural stone replicas including slate, marble, and limestone
- Various plank and tile sizes for different aesthetic effects
- Distinctive laying patterns including herringbone flooring options
The ability to mix and match designs, incorporate decorative borders, or use design strips between planks allows for truly personalised floors that complement any interior style.
Popular Karndean Collections
Knight Tile
The Knight Tile range offers the largest selection of designs at a more accessible price point. This collection features soft textures and detailed grain patterns that make it popular for first-time Karndean customers.
Da Vinci
With a focus on traditional, timeless designs, the Da Vinci range includes distinctive bevelled edges that highlight each individual board or tile. These floors work wonderfully in period properties or homes with classical interiors.
Art Select
The premium Art Select collection provides nature-inspired designs with an enhanced wear layer for superior durability. These floors capture the most intricate details found in natural materials, from the grain patterns of reclaimed oak to the subtle textures of hand-carved stone.
Van Gogh
Known for its colourful, characterful designs, the Van Gogh range showcases unique grain patterns and distinctive colour variations. These floors create striking visual impact and work particularly well in contemporary settings.
Korlok and Looselay
These innovative ranges offer quicker installation options:
- Korlok features a click-lock system requiring no adhesive
- Looselay tiles use a heavier backing and friction grip design that allows installation without glue
Both provide excellent acoustic and thermal insulation properties, making them ideal for apartments or rooms where noise reduction is important.
Professional Installation Considerations
While some Karndean ranges offer DIY-friendly options, professional installation ensures the best results and protects your warranty. At Abernethy Bespoke Flooring, our experienced technicians understand that proper floor prep is essential for a flawless Karndean installation.
The subfloor condition significantly impacts the finished result. Issues such as uneven surfaces, moisture problems, or improper preparation can compromise both the appearance and longevity of your new floor. Our comprehensive preparation services include:
- Thorough subfloor assessment
- Levelling and smoothing
- Moisture testing and barrier application when needed
- Professional screeding where required
Professional installation also opens up more design possibilities, including decorative borders, custom patterns, and speciality layouts like herringbone or chevron designs that require precise cutting and alignment.
Making the Right Karndean Choice
When selecting Karndean flooring, consider these factors:
- Room usage – higher traffic areas benefit from ranges with thicker wear layers
- Existing décor – choose colours and styles that complement your interior design
- Installation method – decide between glue-down, click, or loose lay options
- Budget – various ranges offer different price points without compromising quality
- Design preference – consider whether you prefer wood, stone, or more contemporary looks
Looking at samples in your own home under your lighting conditions can help enormously with the selection process. Viewing larger sections rather than small swatches gives a better sense of how the flooring will look when installed.
Transform Your Space with Karndean Flooring
Karndean luxury vinyl flooring combines stunning aesthetics with practical durability—offering the best of both worlds for discerning homeowners. Whether you’re renovating a period property or designing a contemporary space, these premium floors provide the perfect foundation for your interior vision.
At Abernethy Bespoke Flooring, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional installation of Karndean and other luxury vinyl products throughout Wigan and the North West. Our expertise in proper floor preparation, professional fitting techniques, and attention to detail ensures your new floor will look beautiful and perform flawlessly for years to come. Ready to explore Karndean flooring options for your home? Contact us today for a consultation and discover how we can transform your space with the perfect luxury vinyl solution.