Articles
Caring For a Karndean Floor
Karndean flooring can make a home look truly spectacular. In a range of finishes and styles, it offers owners the chance to turn a previously drab space into one that’s modern, sophisticated and stylish. If you’ve installed this flooring you’re probably very happy with the results, and you’ll want to keep it looking good for a long time to come. When you think of how best to care for your new flooring it’s important to consider the correct way to lay it, the nature of the material and some approved cleaning methods.
Features
This type of flooring is wholly synthetic, consisting entirely of vinyl. While most types of vinyl for use around the home or property comes in sheets, flooring comes in planks or tiles. There are various designs, all of which mimic other popular types of flooring such as wood, slate and stone. They’re great for those who want a special effect in rooms where the original material would be impractical, or for those seeking attractive effects at a fraction of the cost. While it would be impractical and expensive to install wooden flooring in a bathroom, this artificial material can be just as effective, and it easy to fit. It’s versatile in that it can be laid over most existing types of flooring. While it’s easy for most people with basic home improvement skills to lay this flooring, it’s important to always make sure that the material it’s laid upon is clean and even. All debris and dust should be removed before laying as the initial basic for all later care, because damage from underneath can be irreparable.
Correct Laying
Subfloor preparation is key to installing this type of surface effectively. Plywood sheeting is advisable for timber floors in preparation for the planks, and the same or a similar method can be employed on concrete foundations. Before laying new planks it’s advisable to allow them at least 24 hours to acclimatise. Just unpack them and leave them exposed for a day to avoid expansion or contraction after they’ve been laid. Use adhesives and accessories that have been manufactured by Karndean for the best results when attaching boards to the subfloor. Use a roller suitable to the task, as described in the manufacturer’s guidelines and be sure not to cause any damage just after laying through walking on freshly laid sections.
Cleaning
In order to maintain your warranty, you should only use cleaning materials that are approved by the manufacturer. These will have been designed specifically for surface you’re laying and will be most appropriate to the task. Use a soft brush to avoid scratching when you clean. Never use bleach and clean up any potentially damaging spillages immediately.