More than three years of work went into the development of Korlok, resulting in a beautifully designed product featuring a number of elements that aid both the speed and ease of install, according to the manufacturer. Korlok’s 5G Valinge drop and lock technology, little subfloor preparation and no need for adhesive reportedly allows for a quick installation, ideal for projects that need quick turnaround.
"Korlok fills the need for a durable rigid core locking product with the high-quality designs for which Karndean Designflooring is known,"
—LARRY BROWDER CEO, Korlok Karndean Designflooring.
In addition, Korlok’s proprietary, waterproof K-Core technology provides superior dimensional stability for installation over most existing imperfect subfloors (including gypcrete and plywood) and existing hard floors such as ceramic or hardwood, and meets the ASTM test for indentation resistance. This product is suitable for installation over concrete subfloors with an RH up to 95%. The pre-attached premium foam backing saves on time, cost and labor, and, with an IIC rating of 62, makes Korlok Karndean Designflooring’s highest acoustically performing product. Korlok is finished with Karndean Designflooring’s K-Guard+ surface protection system that uses polyurethane technology to provide a hygienic and durable finish. Like Karndean Designflooring’s other LVT products, Korlok can be scored and snapped for ease of installation and the ability to install in difficult spaces.
“Korlok fills the need for a durable rigid core locking product with the high-quality designs for which Karndean Designflooring is known,” CEO Larry Browder says. “With the addition of Korlok, Karndean Designflooring offers premium solutions for any installation scenario. Not only do we offer gluedown, loose lay and rigid core formats, but we do so in original, premium designs.”Korlok draws inspiration from North American and European woods, according to the company, including Texas Ash, Oak and Butternut, with each design sourced and developed by Karndean Designflooring’s internal design team.
North American woods
Four of Korlok’s 12 products were inspired by Texas Ash, which in nature is a consistent, neutral color due to its growth in limestone rich soil. Texas White Ash stays close to the original inspiration planks, allowing neutral tones to shine through. Three additional colors were developed in this design: Washed Grey Ash, a cool gray; Warm Ash, a warm mid-gray; and Washed Velvet Ash, a warm gray/brown.
Often referred to as “white walnut,” the original butternut boards were sourced from the Eastern United States. After lightly smoking the planks to darken the tannins, the planks were hand-sanded to create a silky luster to develop Smoked Butternut, a lighter alternative to American Black Walnut.
Canadian Urban Oak’s hints of deep blonde were lightly brushed to enhance its natural coloring without taking away its neutral look, to develop a product that complements any interior style.
European woods
Sourced from 17th century French Oak flooring, hundreds of years of wear have resulted in a worn and rustic design full of character, personality and striking beauty, as reflected in Korlok’s two French Oak designs. Reclaimed French Oak is a cool gray featuring a matte, textured finish; while Antique French Oak highlights the original plank’s historical markings and tarnishing.
The distinctive markings of Baltic Limed Oak were achieved by mixing ultra-prime and nature grade planks. Its matte, textured finished, combined with warm undertones, make for an on-trend product to suit both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Lastly, Korlok’s English Oaks were inspired by grand, striking planks full of intricate graining detail and charm. English Character Oak’s mid-tones stay true to natural oak, while Cathedral Oak’s darker patina showcases its intricate detailing, allowing for maximum impact.
Korlok is available in a 56-inch by 9-inch size and 6.5mm thickness, and carries a 15-year commercial warranty. Like all Karndean Designflooring products, Korlok is FloorScore certified, can help earn LEED v4 points, and has low VOCs. Korlok will be available to the public in early July 2017.
