The global pandemic has put a spotlight on the type of materials we bring into our homes. Ease of maintenance, the ability to harbor dirt and bacteria, and the overall environmental footprint are among the top concerns of homeowners in today’s climate.
With many homeowners also taking on home renovation projects during this time, you may be looking to put down new flooring in your home. If you are among these homeowners, you can rest assured that Karndean Designflooring is a healthy and hygienic choice for your home.
Allergens
Unlike carpet and carpet tile, our luxury vinyl floors will not harbor dirt, dust mites or bacteria, which can easily get trapped or grow within carpet fibers; and hardwood floors typically don’t harbor allergens, but they can trap dirt between planks, which may trigger an allergic reaction. While carpet that is made from naturally hypoallergenic materials sounds like it would be allergen-free, it could still trap allergens and will require professional cleaning. With Karndean luxury vinyl tile you can comfortably go about day-to-day life in your home with no outside maintenance costs.
Moisture, Mold and Bacteria
Karndean planks and tiles are nonporous, so not only will they resist spills, but they do not contribute to bacterial growth. If you have grouted ceramic or porcelain tile and your grout isn’t sealed, because of its porosity, the grout can absorb moisture and create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Even our rigid core floors, which come with a pre-attached acoustic foam backing that will not promote the growth of bacteria or COVID-19.
Safe Materials
Pale Limed Oak KP94 & White Painted Pine KP105
Did you know that our products are based on vinyl (PVC), the same material used in vital medical equipment including heart and lung bypass tubing? It’s also the most widely used polymer in building and construction. In addition, our floors are free from BPA, phthalates and formaldehyde. Our products comply with California’s Proposition 65, meaning that none of our product are carcinogenic and none contain raw materials which are either reprotoxic or endocrine disrupting; and therefore, do not require warning labels in the United States.
Air Quality
All Karndean products have been tested for contribution to indoor air quality and independent testing proves that our products are very low emitting in terms of volatile organic compounds (VOCs); and carry a FloorScore® Indoor Air Quality certification.
Our Korlok rigid core products are among the first to be ASSURE Certified™. This standard, developed by the Resilient Floor Covering Institute (RFCI), ensures that rigid core products are manufactured to the highest standard and meet the requirements for indoor air quality, rigorous performance and are free from heavy metals and ortho-phthalates.
Low Impact Cleaning and Maintenance
A regular sweep and mop with Karndean Clean or other pH neutral, fragrance free cleaner approved for use with vinyl floors is all you need to keep your Karndean floor looking its best. When used properly, routine maintenance with Karndean Clean will safely kill and remove germs (just as washing your hands with soap and water does), effectively killing Coronavirus COVID-19 on the floor’s surface.
By incorporating Karndean luxury vinyl into your home, not only go you get a low maintenance floor, but one that contributes to a healthier home. Get started on finding the perfect Karndean floor by browsing our full range of colors and styles!