Why UK Homeowners Are Ditching Hardwood for This Stylish Alternative
- Charlie Mac
- Jul 11
- 4 min read
Discover why Karndean luxury vinyl is overtaking traditional wood floors in British homes.
“We’ve done the whole house in Karndean. Had it in the hallway and kitchen of our old house for 15 years and still looked like new when we sold the house.” – NSS, BuildHub Forum
Introduction
Thinking of replacing your floors? What if we told you there’s an option that looks like premium hardwood, is warmer underfoot, resistant to water and scratches, and lasts decades with hardly any upkeep?
That’s exactly why more UK homeowners are swapping solid wood for Karndean luxury vinyl flooring.
This blog breaks down everything you need to know—from real-world comparisons to specific cost and energy-saving benefits. Whether you're planning a full renovation or just browsing, this guide will help you decide if Karndean is right for your home.
What Is Karndean Flooring?
Karndean is a high-end type of Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) that uses a layered construction:
PVC backing for flexibility
High-definition photographic layer for a realistic look
Transparent K-Guard+ wear layer for durability and stain resistance
It mimics natural wood or stone but with far better resilience, warmth, and ease of care.
How Karndean Stacks Up vs Hardwood
Here’s a detailed side-by-side comparison to help you visualise the key differences:
Feature | Karndean LVT | Solid Hardwood |
Cost per m² (installed) | £40–£65 | £70–£120 (regional variations apply) |
Waterproof | Yes | No (prone to warping) |
Scratch Resistance | High | Moderate to low |
Underfloor Heating | Fully compatible up to 27 °C | Limited compatibility |
Maintenance | Low: sweep + mop | High: sanding, refinishing required |
Visual Options | 100+ wood/stone looks | 10–20 species, colour changes with age |
Lifespan | 20–30 years (low maintenance) | 30+ years with upkeep; can last 100+ years with expert restoration |
Why Homeowners Love Karndean
1. Waterproof & Worry-Free
Karndean handles kitchen spills, muddy pawprints, and steamy bathrooms with ease. Unlike hardwood, it won't swell or crack from moisture.
2. Comfortable Underfoot & Energy Efficient
Warmer to walk on than stone or tile
Feels soft underfoot—great for homes with young children
Works perfectly with underfloor heating
According to Nu-Heat, LVTs like Karndean offer up to 15% better heat transfer than solid wood.
3. Low Maintenance, High Durability
No waxing, sealing, or staining needed
Scratch-resistant surface for busy homes
Wipe-clean finish means less time cleaning, more time living
4. Quieter and Softer Living Spaces
Karndean absorbs sound better than wood or tile, making it perfect for flats or upper-storey installations.
Karndean vs Hardwood: The Sustainability Question
Karndean is made with PVC, but the company is taking steps to reduce its footprint:
Sustainability Aspect | Karndean LVT | Hardwood |
VOC Levels | Low-VOC certified (FloorScore/ISO) | Varies (natural oils/finishes may emit VOCs) |
Recyclability | Partially recyclable | Fully recyclable but may require chemical strips |
Lifespan Waste | Built to last 20+ years | Longer, but refinishing creates waste |
Sourcing Impact | Synthetic but controlled | May involve deforestation, depending on source |
Karndean is not biodegradable, but its "install once, enjoy for decades" model reduces replacement frequency and long-term waste. Hamilton Flooring notes it’s a low-waste, long-life option compared to short-cycle flooring.
Real Stories from UK Homes
“We installed Karndean in the hallway, kitchen and bathroom. Eight years on, it still looks brand new.”— Paul M., Reddit user
“With two kids and a Labrador, Karndean has been a game-changer. I’ll never go back to hardwood.”— Claire H., London homeowner"
Considerations Before Switching
UV Fading
Problem: Prolonged sun exposure can discolour the surface
Solution: Use UV-filtering films, solar blinds, and rotate rugs regularly
Matching Replacements
Problem: Matching exact planks after years may be difficult
Solution: Order 10% extra overage and store safely for future spot repairs
Upfront Cost
Problem: Costs more than laminate or sheet vinyl
Solution: Lower long-term costs from reduced maintenance and longer lifespan
Is Karndean Right for You?
Karndean is ideal if you want:
Natural wood or stone aesthetics
Waterproof, low-maintenance flooring
Compatibility with underfloor heating
Quiet, warm spaces without constant upkeep
Still prefer natural materials? Hardwood offers timeless charm and can last a lifetime—but it demands regular care, sanding, and a higher budget.
FAQ
Q: Can Karndean be installed over existing floors?Yes, provided the surface is clean, level, and stable. Floating ranges like LooseLay and Korlok make it even easier.
Q: Do I need to prepare the subfloor for Karndean?Yes. A properly prepared subfloor is essential. It must be dry, smooth, and free of imperfections to ensure long-term performance.
Q: How long does Karndean last?Typically 20–30 years. Warranties often cover residential use for life.
Q: Is it eco-friendly?Karndean is low-VOC and ISO-certified for air quality. It is not biodegradable, but its long lifespan and reduced need for refinishing reduce waste.
Q: Where can I see Karndean in person?Visit Karndean retailers or order free samples online.
Ready to See the Difference?
Experience the look, feel, and durability of Karndean for yourself:
Get a Quote from a Karndean Approved Retailer
Try the Floor Visualiser Tool
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