How to Choose Karndean Flooring

Picking the right flooring for your home is a big decision—it needs to be stylish, durable, and practical for everyday life. That’s where Karndean flooring comes in. Known for its high-quality luxury vinyl, Karndean offers stunning wood and stone designs that are waterproof, easy to clean, and comfortable underfoot. But with so many options, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

This guide will break it all down, so you can confidently pick the perfect Karndean flooring for your space.

In this article, you’ll learn:

  • How Karndean’s different collections compare in terms of style, durability, and price
  • What makes Karndean flooring special, and why it's a great choice
  • The key factors to consider before making your final decision.

Comparing Karndean Flooring Ranges & Choosing the Right One

Karndean offers three main flooring collections, each designed for different budgets, styles, and needs. To find the best one for you, consider factors like durability, slip resistance, and how much foot traffic your space gets.

Knight Tile

Delivers stunning wood and stone contemporary designs at entry-level prices

Thickness

Gluedown: 2.0mm

Rigid Core: 4.5mm

Wear Layer

0.30mm

Slip Rating

R10

Embossed

Bevel

Registered Emboss

Handscraped Finish

Price Range

ÂŁ - Entry range

Van Gogh

A rich selection of oak, cedar, and redwood finishes. From sleek neutrals and bold, dark rustic woods to cool, calming stone textures, this mid-price collection has something for every style.

Thickness

Gluedown: 3.0mm

Rigid Core: 5.5mm / 6.5mm

Wear Layer

0.55m

Slip Rating

R10

Embossed

Bevel

Micro

Registered Emboss

* Selected lines only.

Handscraped Finish

Price Range

ÂŁÂŁ - Mid range

Art Select

The ultimate collection featuring handcrafted designs inspired by the finest wood and stone. With unique embossing, distinct bevelled edges, and captivating textures, it showcases the peak of design excellence.

Thickness

Gluedown: 3.0mm

Wear Layer

0.70mm

Slip Rating

up to R11

Embossed

Bevel

Standard

Registered Emboss

* Selected lines only.

Handscraped Finish

* Selected lines only.

Price Range

ÂŁÂŁÂŁ - Premium range

1. Budget & Durability - Is Karndean Expensive?

Your budget plays a big role in your choice. If you need an affordable option for low-traffic areas, Knight Tile is a great entry-level choice. For high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens, Van Gogh offers a thicker wear layer. If you want the most luxurious and durable option, Art Select provides handcrafted details and the highest slip resistance.

2. Room Suitability & Wear Layer

All Karndean flooring is Class 23 heavy domestic, with the highest durability rating for residential use. This means that every Karndean range—Knight Tile, Van Gogh, and Art Select—is suitable for any room in the house, from bedrooms and living spaces to kitchens and hallways. You don’t have to worry about choosing a specific range based on foot traffic, as all Karndean floors are built to withstand daily wear and tear.

However, there are a few specialist spaces where Karndean flooring is not recommended:

  • Wet rooms (such as fully waterproof shower rooms).
  • Conservatories with direct sunlight exposure, as extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the flooring.

For all other rooms, your decision will come down to style, texture and installation preference rather than durability.

3. Aesthetic & Texture Preferences

  • Simple, modern designs → Knight Tile
  • Rich textures & authentic wood grains → Van Gogh
  • Luxury, hand-scraped finishes → Art Select

4. Comfort & Safety

No matter which collection you choose, you’ll get a soft, warm feel underfoot, making it a great option for bare feet in bedrooms, living areas, and even bathrooms. Since Karndean is also 100% waterproof, it’s a practical choice for spaces where occasional spills and moisture are present.

5. Installation Type

  • Gluedown: Allows for creative layouts like herringbone but requires professional installation.
  • Rigid Core: Features a click-lock system, making it easier for DIY installation and great for reducing noise.

6. Long-Term Value & Guarantee

All Karndean floors come with a Lifetime Transferable Purchase Guarantee, meaning your investment is protected for life—and if you sell your home, the next owner will benefit, too.

What Makes Karndean Flooring Special?

Karndean flooring stands out from the crowd because it combines style with practicality. Whether you want the warm look of hardwood or the cool elegance of stone, Karndean gives you the best of both worlds—without the high maintenance of real wood or the cold feel of real stone.

Here’s why so many homeowners and designers love it:

1. 100% Waterproof & Easy to Clean

Spills? No problem. Unlike traditional wood flooring, Karndean is completely waterproof, making it perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and even basements. A quick mop or wipe is all you need to keep it looking fresh.

2. Comfortable & Quiet Underfoot

Love the idea of warm floors in winter? Karndean works perfectly with underfloor heating, giving you cosy comfort all year round.

3. Built to Last

Durability is a major selling point. With a strong wear layer that resists scratches, dents, and everyday wear, Karndean flooring is designed to stand up to kids, pets, and heavy foot traffic. Plus, it comes with a lifetime transferable guarantee, so you know it’s made to last.

4. Compatible with Underfloor Heating

Love the idea of warm floors in winter? Karndean works perfectly with underfloor heating, giving you cosy comfort all year round.

5. A Style for Every Home

With a huge range of wood and stone designs, you can find a Karndean floor to match any interior—whether you love modern, rustic, or classic looks.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Karndean flooring comes down to style, function, and durability. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with great design, Knight Tile is a fantastic choice. For a balance between durability and style, Van Gogh offers a strong wear layer and beautiful textures. And if you want the most premium, handcrafted feel, Art Select is the way to go.

One of the best things about Karndean flooring—besides its waterproof durability and easy maintenance—is the Lifetime Transferable Purchase Guarantee. This means your flooring is protected for life, and if you ever sell your home, the next owner can inherit the guarantee too. It’s a great way to add lasting value to your property while giving you complete peace of mind.

No matter which Karndean range you choose, you’re investing in a high-quality floor designed to last. As one of only two Karndean Approved Online Retailers in the UK, we’re committed to offering you the best value. That’s why we offer our Price Match Promise—if you find a lower price on Karndean products from another Approved Online Supplier, we’ll match it!