Karndean Retail Partner Manchester, Altrincham, Wilmslow, Chester, Nantwich

Karndean is not a DIY product and so requires specialist fitting inline with the fitting specifications. The most important thing to get right is the subfloor preparation because the product follows the contours of the floor. Sub Floor preparation requires specialist knowledge and experience to ensure the perfect finish is achieved. Our highly skilled fitters have many years of experience of sub floor preparation and laying Karndean.

Karndean Fitting

We are Karndean fitters and also fitters of other brands of Luxury Vinyl flooring such as Amtico, Polyflor, Project Floors and Harvey Maria.

Karndean Fitting Manchester, Altrincham, Wilmslow
Karndean Fitting Manchester, Altrincham, Wilmslow

Adhesive Selection

When fitting Karndean it is essential that the correct adhesive is used so that a strong bond is achieved. High temperature adhesive will always be used with underfloor heating or in a conservatory because it will be subject to direct heat.

Sub Floor

Grosvenor Flooring will advise you on the correct materials to prepare the subfloor. We only ever use SP101 ply board as specified by Karndean because other cheaper products can delaminate. Different types of primer and screed are required depending on what it is being laid onto.

Subfloor Preparation Manchester, Altrincham, Wilmslow
Moisture Test

Moisture Test

We will always do a moisture test to ensure that there is no moisture in the subfloor because it can cause the flooring to lift. If moisture is detected in the sub floor we apply an epoxy resin Damp Proof Membrane (DPM).

KARNDEAN FITTING

We are Karndean fitters and also fitters of other brands of Luxury Vinyl flooring such as Polyflor Fitting, Project Floors and Harvey Maria.
Karndean Fitting Manchester, Altrincham, Wilmslow

ADHESIVE SELECTION

When fitting Karndean it is essential that the correct adhesive is used so that a strong bond is achieved. High temperature adhesive will always be used with underfloor heating or in a conservatory because it will be subject to direct heat.
Karndean Fitting Manchester, Altrincham, Wilmslow

SUB FLOOR

Grosvenor Flooring will advise you on the correct materials to prepare the subfloor. We only ever use SP101 ply board as specified by Karndean because other cheaper products can delaminate. Different types of primer and screed are required depending on what it is being laid onto.
Subfloor Preparation Manchester, Altrincham, Wilmslow

MOISTURE TEST

We will always do a moisture test to ensure that there is no moisture in the subfloor because it can cause the flooring to lift. If moisture is detected in the sub floor we apply an epoxy resin Damp Proof Membrane (DPM).
Moisture Test

If you’re looking for a durable, attractive, and easy-to-maintain flooring solution, you might want to consider Karndean flooring. Karndean is a luxury vinyl flooring brand that offers a wide range of designs and colors that can mimic the look and feel of natural materials like wood and stone. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of Karndean floor fitting, from choosing the right type of Karndean flooring to installing it on your subfloor.

What is Karndean Flooring?

Karndean flooring is a type of luxury vinyl flooring that is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural materials like wood, stone, and ceramic tiles. Karndean flooring is made of multiple layers of vinyl, with a photographic layer that reproduces the look of the natural material and a protective layer that makes the flooring scratch-resistant, water-resistant, and easy to clean.

Types of Karndean Flooring

Karndean flooring comes in different types, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of Karndean flooring:

Karndean Art Select

Karndean Art Select is a premium range of Karndean flooring that replicates the look and feel of natural materials like wood, stone, and marble. Art Select comes in a range of tile and plank sizes, textures, and finishes, allowing you to create a bespoke flooring design that suits your style.

Karndean Da Vinci

Karndean Da Vinci is a collection of Karndean flooring that offers a range of contemporary and classic designs, including wood and stone effects, parquet flooring, and metallic finishes.

Karndean Opus

Karndean Opus is a collection of Karndean flooring that offers a range of contemporary and abstract designs, including stone and concrete effects, metallic finishes, and geometric patterns. Opus is ideal for modern interiors that require a minimalist and industrial look.

Karndean Van Gogh

Karndean Van Gogh is a collection of Karndean flooring that replicates the look and feel of natural wood planks, including distressed, rustic, and contemporary finishes. Van Gogh offers a wide range of wood species, from classic oak and maple to exotic acacia and teak.

Karndean Knight Tile

The Karndean Knight Tile collection is the entry price point and consists of wood and stone effect designs.

Preparing the Subfloor for Karndean Flooring

Before installing Karndean flooring, you need to prepare your subfloor to ensure that it is clean, level, and dry. Here are the steps taken to prepare the subfloor for Karndean flooring:

Step 1: Check the subfloor for any damage or unevenness

Inspect the subfloor for any cracks, holes, or bumps that can affect the integrity of the Karndean flooring. Use a level to check if the subfloor is flat and even. If there is any damage or unevenness it is repaired before installing the Karndean flooring.

Step 2: Clean the subfloor thoroughly

Remove any debris, dust, or grease from the subfloor using a broom or vacuum cleaner. For a deeper cleaning, a mild detergent and warm water can be used to scrub the subfloor, then rinse it with clean water and let it dry completely.

Step 3: Check the moisture level of the subfloor

Karndean flooring is water-resistant, but it can still be affected by moisture if the subfloor is too damp or humid. A moisture meter is used to check the moisture level of the subfloor, and make sure it is within the recommended range for Karndean flooring. If the subfloor is too wet, we wait for it to dry completely before installing the Karndean flooring.

Step 4: Prepare the subfloor

In general if the floor is concrete then a smoothing compound is applied to smooth the surface, this is often referred to as a screed. If the subfloor is wooden then specialist flooring grade SP101 ply is nailed to the floor, depending on the undulations in the floor the ply is then either finished with a feather finish or smoothing compound.

Installing Karndean Flooring: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you have prepared your subfloor, you can start installing the Karndean flooring. Here are the steps to install Karndean flooring:

Step 1: Measure the room and plan the layout

Measure the room where you want to install the Karndean flooring, and plan the layout of the tiles or planks. Start from the center of the room and work your way out, using chalk lines or a straight edge to guide you.

Step 2: Cut the tiles or planks to fit

Use a utility knife or a saw to cut the tiles or planks to fit the edges and corners of the room. Make sure to leave a 1/4-inch gap between the Karndean flooring and the walls to allow for expansion.

Step 3: Install the Karndean flooring

Depending on the type of Karndean flooring you have, you can install it using different methods. For example, if you have Karndean LooseLay, you can simply lay the tiles or planks on the subfloor without adhesive or underlay. If you have Karndean gluedown flooring, you need to apply adhesive to the subfloor and press the tiles or planks firmly onto it. There are various laying patterns, the most popular being straight lay and parquet/herringbone.

Step 4: Finish the installation with trims and profiles

To give your Karndean flooring a professional finish, you can use trims and profiles to cover the edges and transitions between different rooms or surfaces.

Step 5: Clean and maintain your Karndean flooring

Karndean flooring is easy to clean and maintain, but you need to follow some basic guidelines to ensure its longevity and beauty. Here are some tips to clean and maintain your Karndean flooring:

  • Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly to remove dust and dirt.
  • Use a damp mop and a neutral cleaner to clean the floor periodically.
  • Avoid using abrasive cleaners, wax, or polish on the floor, as they can damage the surface.
  • Place doormats at the entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and moisture that enters the room.
  • Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents on the floor.
  • Avoid exposing the floor to direct sunlight or extreme heat, as it can fade or deform the planks or tiles.

Karndean flooring is a versatile and durable flooring solution that offers a wide range of styles and designs for commercial and residential spaces. Whether you choose Karndean Opus, Karndean Van Gogh, or Karndean LooseLay, you can enjoy the benefits of a high-quality flooring that combines aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. By following the preparation and installation guidelines, as well as the cleaning and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your Karndean flooring looks and performs at its best for years to come.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between Karndean Opus and Karndean Van Gogh? Karndean Opus is a collection of abstract and contemporary designs that mimic stone, concrete, and metallic effects, while Karndean Van Gogh is a collection of natural wood planks that replicate the look and feel of real wood.

  2. Can Karndean flooring be installed over existing tiles? Yes, Karndean flooring can be installed over existing tiles if they are in good condition and the subfloor is level and clean. However, it is recommended to remove the old tiles if they are cracked or loose.

  3. Is Karndean flooring suitable for bathrooms and kitchens? Yes, Karndean flooring is water-resistant and can be used in bathrooms and kitchens. However, you need to follow the cleaning and maintenance guidelines to prevent moisture buildup and stains.

  4. How long does Karndean flooring last? Karndean flooring is designed to last for decades, depending on the type of wear layer and the level of foot traffic. Some Karndean flooring products come with a lifetime residential warranty and a 20-year commercial warranty.

  5. Can Karndean flooring be repaired? Yes, Karndean flooring can be repaired if it is damaged or scratched. You can use a repair kit or contact a professional flooring installer to fix the problem.