A Guide To Laying Karndean Flooring

by: Derek Rogers

Karndean flooring is fully synthetic vinyl flooring that comes in tile and plank sizes not sheets as other traditional styles of vinyl do.

It comes in a variety of designs that mimic perfectly other traditional floor finishes such as timber, stone, and slate. This type is a perfect solution for people who want to use a particular floor finish in an area in which the actual product would be unsuitable such as a timber floor in a bathroom for example.

It is very versatile as it can be laid over all floor surfaces, wood, tile, asphalt, concrete even existing vinyl. Pdf files are available for download which will advise you on the correct preparation of your floor (this is especially useful for unusual subfloor materials such as asphalt and for new concrete floors that may still have high moisture content.)

This guide will discuss the general principals involved in laying Karndean flooring on a subfloor of aged concrete, wood, vinyl etc. If you are going to lay your Karndean flooring on a more unusual subfloor it is highly advisable that you consult a guide for the specific preparation and adhesive requirements of your subfloor.

Laying this particular flooring is a fairly easy operation that is well within the ability of the average DIY person. As with any flooring installation, the correct preparation of the sub floor is essential. You must ensure that your floor is clean, flat and level and that there are no lumps, bumps, and grit or sharp objects. Anything that is on the subfloor will show under the Karndean flooring and will cause damage. Floors that are uneven will be highlighted by light entering through doors or windows.

Firstly prepare your subfloor, for timber floors it is advisable to lay plywood sheeting that is well fixed to the timber floor and has the joints filled with a fine finishing compound, concrete floors can either have plywood sheeting laid and secured to them or a fine screed can be applied to give a flat surface. (The screed will not totally level the surface however.)

Before you commence to lay the Karndean tiles or planks allow them to acclimatise to the room for at least 24 hours. Unpack the flooring and leave to sit in the room - this will avoid the planks or tiles expanding or contracting after they have been laid.

Karndean supply several different adhesives to suit the different subfloor materials, choose the correct adhesive for your subfloor. Spread the adhesive onto the floor using the trowel that comes attached to the adhesive container. Ensure that you spread the adhesive on a manageable area to ensure that it does not go off before you have been able to lay your tiles or planks.

Once you have laid the flooring roll and cross roll the entire floor with a 100lb roller. Check again in 2 to 3 hours and reroll if necessary (or if recommended on the adhesive container.) Do not walk on, wash or polish the floor for the amount of time recommended for the adhesive you used.

Kardean flooring is a solution that gives you the look of timber, stone or other flooring materials but that will not warp, chip or be affected by heat and humidity as the natural products may.