Karndean flooring Solihull brings the natural beauty of wood and stone into your home or business premises with all the comfort and practicality of modern vinyl. After forty years fitting floors across Solihull, we’ve seen how much difference the right preparation, design details and fitting technique make to a floor’s look and lifespan.
Karndean planks and tiles are built from multiple layers of vinyl, topped with a realistic photographic film and a hard-wearing surface layer. That top layer is what stands up to daily life. For busy spaces like kitchens or hallways, we recommend at least 0.55 mm. Bedrooms and lighter-use areas can go thinner without losing performance. A thicker wear layer helps the floor resist scratches and stay looking clear even under strong light.
Because Karndean has a stable core, it won’t swell with humidity like wood or crack like ceramic tiles when the subfloor moves slightly. It’s warmer underfoot and ideal for underfloor heating too. During fitting, we control the temperature so the adhesive sets properly and the finish stays stable.
Layout can completely change the mood of a room. Plank formats look great in long spaces and can make narrow rooms feel wider if laid across the short side. Herringbone adds a classic touch and a sense of movement. Borders and feature strips define zones in open-plan layouts, helping the space feel more balanced.
Lighting also plays a role. Laying planks in line with the main light source reduces visible joints. For the most natural look, a subtle texture that matches the printed grain tends to look better than something overly patterned. Mid-tones and gentle colour variation hide everyday marks well, a smart choice for families or pet owners.
The quality of a vinyl floor starts underneath. We always test concrete bases for moisture, and if readings are high, we apply a liquid damp-proof membrane. Then we level the surface so small imperfections don’t show through. Timber or tiled floors usually need a ply or fibreboard layer first for extra stability. These steps prevent issues like bubbles, edge lifting and uneven wear over time.
Solihull homes often have sunlit spaces and bi-fold doors, which means higher temperatures near the floor. We use high-temperature adhesives in these spots and roll the flooring carefully so everything bonds as it should. On larger runs we allow for small expansion gaps at thresholds to keep things tight and long-lasting.
Cleaning Karndean is straightforward. A quick sweep or vacuum, followed by a damp mop with a neutral cleaner, is all you need. No sanding, sealing or waxing required. Good entrance mats help protect the surface from grit and water, a small step that can double the floor’s lifespan. With routine care, a well-fitted Karndean floor can last well beyond ten years.
Modern Karndean ranges meet low-VOC standards and are free from phthalates, making them safe for homes and workplaces. We also use low-odour, water-based adhesives – a must when fitting in occupied spaces. Documentation is available for projects targeting BREEAM or similar environmental ratings.
A family wanted the look of oak across a hallway and kitchen-diner without the upkeep of timber. We fitted a herringbone Karndean with a slim border and used high-temperature adhesive near south-facing doors. Twelve months later, the floor still looks fresh and the homeowners say dog prints barely show compared to their old laminate.
The clinic needed a floor that was warm, quiet and hygienic. We fitted stone-effect Karndean with entrance matting and coved skirting. Staff noticed less noise and quicker cleaning times. No chipped tiles, no cold underfoot feeling, just a more welcoming space.
To see some more examples from recent projects please see our gallery here.
If you’re planning a new floor and want the look of wood or stone without the maintenance, we can help. We’ll bring samples to your home, measure accurately and talk you through the best options for your space and budget.
Call 07432 153015 or use our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation visit.
