Karndean Knight Tile Honed Charcoal Slate SCB-ST19-18 Rigid Core Stone Tile Click LVT Flooring

Embrace bold sophistication with Karndean Knight Tile Honed Charcoal Slate SCB-ST19-18 Rigid Core Stone Tile Click LVT Flooring. This dramatic rigid core design captures the striking beauty of natural charcoal slate with its deep grey-charcoal palette and authentic honed finish, offering the perfect foundation for contemporary, industrial, and modern interiors seeking dramatic impact and urban sophistication. As part of Karndean's innovative Knight Tile Rigid Core collection, Honed Charcoal Slate combines the authentic appearance of natural dark slate with revolutionary click-lock installation technology – no adhesive required, no professional installer needed, and no messy cleanup. The pre-attached acoustic foam backing reduces noise transfer to rooms below by an impressive 19dB, making it the ideal choice for upstairs bathrooms, multi-level homes, and apartment installations where acoustic comfort is essential. Also available in gluedown format as ST19 for downstairs installations where gluedown is preferred, and in coordinating lighter shades including Honed Oyster Slate (ST17) and Honed Pebble Slate (ST20), this versatile design brings entry-range pricing with premium rigid core convenience and the reassurance of Karndean's trusted quality. With its dramatic charcoal tones and authentic honed finish, Honed Charcoal Slate delivers the bold elegance of natural slate without the maintenance demands, cold surface, or installation complexity.

KEY FEATURES:

• Authentic Honed Charcoal Slate Rigid Core Design with natural texture
• Click-Lock Installation – No adhesive required, completely DIY-friendly
• K-Core® Technology – Stronger, more stable core for installation over uneven subfloors
• Pre-Attached Acoustic Foam Backing – Reduces noise transfer by 19dB
• Dramatic dark charcoal-grey colour palette for bold, contemporary interiors
• Sophisticated honed finish replicates polished slate appearance
• 305x457mm (12"x18") stone tile format for classic elegance
• Available in gluedown format as ST19 for alternative installation preferences
• Coordinating shades available: Honed Oyster Slate (ST17) and Honed Pebble Slate (ST20)
• 100% Waterproof construction – Perfect for bathrooms and wet areas
• Enhanced Surface Protection (K-Guard+ with PU coating)
• 0.3mm wear layer for commercial-grade durability
• 4.5mm thickness – More than double the gluedown thickness for enhanced stability
• Painted bevels create authentic grouted appearance
• Lifetime Residential / 10-Year Commercial Warranty
• Entry-range pricing with premium rigid core benefits
• Installs over most existing hard floors without extensive preparation
• Requires expansion gap – Finished with colour-matched or white paintable scotia

IDEAL FOR:

Residential Applications: Honed Charcoal Slate rigid core flooring brings dramatic sophistication to contemporary homes, with particular advantages for upstairs installations where acoustic performance matters. The 19dB noise reduction makes it significantly quieter than laminate or engineered alternatives, perfect for upstairs bathrooms where the bold charcoal slate aesthetic combines with practical noise reduction to rooms below. The dramatic dark tones create striking, memorable spaces with urban sophistication and contemporary edge. The 100% waterproof K-Core® technology makes it ideal for contemporary bathrooms, modern wet rooms, and luxury en-suites where the charcoal slate aesthetic brings spa-like drama and elegance. The DIY-friendly click-lock system empowers homeowners to achieve professional natural slate installations over a weekend without the mess, expense, and complexity of adhesive application or the cold, hard surface of real slate. Beyond bathrooms, this dramatic charcoal slate design brings contemporary sophistication to modern kitchens (particularly popular in industrial-style and urban kitchens where dark tones create dramatic impact), creates striking contrast in hallways and entrances, and adds bold elegance to utility rooms and boot rooms. The ability to install over most existing hard floors makes it perfect for renovation projects and loft conversions, while the K-Core® technology's tolerance for minor subfloor imperfections means less preparation work and faster installation. Whether you're creating an industrial urban loft, a contemporary luxury home, a modern minimalist apartment, or adding dramatic natural texture to any space, Honed Charcoal Slate delivers authentic slate beauty with modern convenience and entry-range affordability.

Commercial Applications: Knight Tile Rigid Core's combination of affordability, durability, and quick installation makes Honed Charcoal Slate an excellent choice for commercial projects where dramatic aesthetics, budget, and timeline are all critical. The click-lock floating floor system significantly reduces installation time compared to gluedown alternatives, minimising business disruption and reducing labour costs. The 19dB noise reduction is particularly valuable in multi-level buildings, contemporary hotels, modern office buildings, luxury spas and wellness centres, and upscale hospitality venues where acoustic comfort enhances the premium experience. The 0.3mm commercial-grade wear layer and lifetime residential warranty (10-year commercial) provide the durability needed for moderate-traffic commercial spaces including reception areas with dramatic impact, executive offices, creative agency spaces, boutique retail environments with contemporary edge, high-end restaurants and bars, luxury hair salons and barbershops, and hospitality settings where bold, memorable aesthetics are essential. The 100% waterproof construction makes it suitable for commercial bathrooms, spa wet areas, and any space where moisture resistance is critical. The dramatic charcoal slate conveys luxury, sophistication, contemporary style, and design confidence – perfect for businesses wanting to create memorable, high-end spaces that impress clients and customers. For luxury commercial developments, upscale retail concepts, contemporary restaurant and bar venues, premium spa and wellness facilities, and design-conscious commercial projects, Honed Charcoal Slate delivers the sophisticated appearance of premium natural slate with the practical benefits and entry-range pricing that make it commercially viable.

TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE:

Understanding the innovative construction of Knight Tile Rigid Core reveals why it outperforms traditional floating floors while rivalling the appearance of luxury natural slate:

K-Guard+ Surface Protection: Advanced PU technology creates a hygienic, highly durable finish that resists daily wear, household spills, and scuffing. Unlike natural slate that requires regular sealing, specialized stone cleaners, and careful protection from acidic substances, K-Guard+ protection means simple sweep-and-mop maintenance keeps your floor looking pristine for years without the expense or effort of professional stone care.

0.3mm Wear Layer: The same commercial-grade wear layer used in gluedown Knight Tile provides exceptional durability and longevity. This robust layer ensures the authentic honed charcoal slate appearance remains vivid and beautiful even in high-traffic areas, without the wear, staining, or fading that affects unsealed natural slate.

High-Definition Photographic Layer: Karndean's sophisticated imaging technology captures every nuance of natural honed charcoal slate – the deep grey-charcoal tones, the authentic honed texture, the subtle surface variations – creating a remarkably realistic appearance that rivals premium natural slate installations costing significantly more.

Click-Lock Mechanism: The proven click-lock system creates secure tile-to-tile connections that lock together firmly yet allow individual tiles to be unclipped and replaced if ever damaged. This flexibility provides long-term peace of mind and represents a significant advantage over natural slate installations where damaged tiles require professional removal with specialized tools.

K-Core® Technology: Karndean's proprietary rigid core is the foundation of superior performance. Stronger and more stable than standard SPC or WPC cores, K-Core® technology enables installation over most existing hard floors and tolerates minor subfloor imperfections that would show through with thinner gluedown formats or require extensive leveling for natural slate installation. This means less subfloor preparation, faster installation, and professional results even over slightly uneven surfaces.

Pre-Attached Acoustic Foam Backing: The integrated acoustic foam backing delivers 19dB noise reduction – dramatically quieter than laminate, engineered wood, standard rigid core products, or natural slate installations. This makes Knight Tile Rigid Core notably softer and quieter underfoot, creating a more comfortable, premium feel. Natural slate's hard, cold surface amplifies sound, making the acoustic benefits of Knight Tile Rigid Core particularly valuable for upstairs bathrooms and living spaces.

4.5mm Total Thickness: At more than double the thickness of gluedown Knight Tile (2.0mm), the 4.5mm rigid core construction provides enhanced stability, superior performance over uneven subfloors, and a more substantial, quality feel underfoot – approaching the solidity of natural slate without the weight, structural requirements, or cold surface.

INSTALLATION & MAINTENANCE:

DIY-Friendly Click-Lock Installation: Knight Tile Rigid Core transforms natural slate flooring installation from a highly specialized trade requiring professional stone layers into a manageable DIY project. The click-lock floating floor system requires no adhesive, no messy troweling, no waiting for adhesive to cure, and no sticky cleanup. Simply click tiles together and the floor is immediately ready to use. Homeowners can complete a standard bathroom over a weekend, saving hundreds or even thousands compared to professional natural slate installation costs.

Floats Over Existing Floors: The rigid core construction means the floor floats over your existing hard surface rather than being permanently adhered. This allows installation over concrete, existing tiles, vinyl, and most other hard surfaces (properly prepared), eliminating the time and expense of floor removal in many renovation scenarios – a dramatic simplification compared to natural slate installation which typically requires removal of existing flooring and extensive subfloor preparation.

Minimal Subfloor Preparation: K-Core® technology's superior stability means it tolerates minor subfloor imperfections that would show through with gluedown formats or require extensive leveling for natural slate installation. While the subfloor should still be clean, dry, and relatively flat, the rigid core construction is far more forgiving than traditional installations.

Faster Installation: The click-lock system is significantly faster than gluedown installation and exponentially faster than natural slate laying. No troweling adhesive, no waiting for mortar to cure, no specialized stone-cutting equipment, no heavy lifting of solid slate, no mess to clean up – just click tiles together and move on. What might take a professional slate layer days can be completed in hours with Knight Tile Rigid Core.

Expansion Gap Required: As with all floating floors, a 10-15mm expansion gap is required around the perimeter and around fixed objects. This gap accommodates the natural expansion and contraction of the floor and is finished with scotia (skirting) for a professional appearance. Karndean offers colour-matched scotia for seamless integration or white paintable scotia for customization.

Compatible With Underfloor Heating: Honed Charcoal Slate works beautifully with underfloor heating systems up to 27°C, adding luxurious warmth to bathrooms and living spaces during colder months – providing consistent warmth that natural slate lacks without the installation complexity.

Simple Maintenance: Daily maintenance couldn't be easier – simply sweep or vacuum to remove loose dirt, then damp mop with Karndean Clean for a streak-free shine. The K-Guard+ surface treatment means no sealing, no waxing, no buffing, no specialized stone cleaners, and no anxiety about spills or staining – a dramatic improvement over natural slate which requires regular sealing and careful maintenance to prevent staining and deterioration.

Individual Tile Replacement: Should any tile become damaged, the click-lock system allows individual tiles to be unclipped and replaced without disturbing surrounding tiles – a significant advantage over gluedown installation and natural slate where damaged tiles require professional removal, often damaging adjacent tiles in the process.

Suitable For Most Existing Hard Floors: Install over properly prepared concrete, existing ceramic or porcelain tiles, existing vinyl, and most other hard surfaces. Not suitable for installation over carpet or surfaces with more than 5mm variance per meter.

DESIGN INSPIRATION:

Honed Charcoal Slate's dramatic dark charcoal tones create bold, sophisticated spaces that work beautifully in contemporary, industrial, and luxury modern interiors. The deep tones provide striking impact and urban sophistication.

Luxury Contemporary Bathroom: Create a dramatic spa-inspired bathroom by pairing Honed Charcoal Slate with modern white sanitaryware, matt black fixtures, and white or light grey wall tiles for striking contrast. The deep charcoal slate adds luxury and drama, creating bathrooms that feel like five-star hotel spas. Add large mirrors, statement lighting, and quality accessories to enhance the sophisticated aesthetic. The 100% waterproof construction and 19dB acoustic backing make it ideal for upstairs master bathrooms where luxury and practicality combine.

Industrial Kitchen: Bring urban sophistication to contemporary kitchens by pairing Honed Charcoal Slate with dark cabinetry, white or grey quartz worktops, and stainless steel or black appliances. The dramatic charcoal floor creates bold contrast that grounds the space and adds industrial edge. The waterproof construction handles kitchen spills with ease, while the dark tones are practical for hiding minor dirt between cleanings. Add exposed shelving, industrial lighting, and minimal accessories for authentic urban style.

Contemporary Monochrome Living: Create striking contrast by pairing Honed Charcoal Slate with white walls, pale furniture, and monochrome accessories. The dramatic dark floor provides a bold foundation that makes light furnishings pop, creating spaces with contemporary sophistication and visual impact. Perfect for minimalist interiors where the floor becomes a design statement rather than just a background.

Luxury Hotel-Style Bedroom: Transform master bedrooms into luxury retreats by extending Honed Charcoal Slate from the en-suite into the bedroom. The dramatic charcoal creates a sophisticated, hotel-inspired aesthetic. Pair with upholstered bed frames, quality linens, and elegant lighting to create bedrooms that feel luxurious and exclusive. The 19dB acoustic backing ensures peaceful rest despite the dramatic aesthetics.

Statement Entrance: Make a bold first impression by installing Honed Charcoal Slate in entrance halls. The dramatic charcoal immediately establishes contemporary sophistication and design confidence. The durable construction handles high-traffic demands, while the dark tones hide dirt between cleanings – practical for busy entrances. Pair with dramatic lighting, a statement console, and large mirrors to enhance the impact.

Contemporary Commercial Spaces: For upscale commercial environments, Honed Charcoal Slate creates immediate luxury and sophistication. Perfect for high-end restaurant interiors, cocktail bars, luxury retail changing rooms, executive office suites, and spa reception areas where dramatic aesthetics convey quality and contemporary style.

WHY CHOOSE KNIGHT TILE RIGID CORE:

• DIY-Friendly Installation: No professional installer required – homeowners can achieve professional natural slate results with basic tools
• No Adhesive Mess: Floating floor means no sticky mess, no troweling, no drying time, no cleanup
• Acoustic Performance: 19dB noise reduction perfect for upstairs bathrooms and apartment living
• Quieter Underfoot: Pre-attached foam backing noticeably softer and quieter than natural slate or standard rigid core alternatives
• K-Core® Technology: Installs successfully over uneven subfloors and most existing hard floors without exposing imperfections
• Minimal Prep: Less subfloor preparation required compared to gluedown formats or natural slate installation
• Affordable Drama: Entry-range pricing delivers bold charcoal slate character at accessible cost
• Dramatic Impact: Deep charcoal tones create striking, memorable spaces
• Coordinating Options: Available in three shades – Oyster (ST17), Pebble (ST20), and Charcoal (ST19)
• 18 Versatile Designs: Curated selection of Knight Tile's most popular designs in rigid core format
• Same Authentic Appearance: Identical designs to gluedown Knight Tile for design continuity throughout your home
• 100% Waterproof: K-Core® technology is fully waterproof – perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and wet areas without sealing
• Easy Replacement: Individual tiles can be unclicked and replaced if damaged
• Perfect for Renovations: Floats over existing floors, eliminating removal in many scenarios
• Warmer Than Real: More comfortable underfoot than natural slate, especially in bathrooms
• No Sealing Required: Unlike natural slate, no ongoing sealing or specialized maintenance needed
• Stain Resistant: K-Guard+ surface resists stains that would discolour unsealed natural slate
• Lighter Weight: No structural concerns about weight load unlike heavy natural slate
• Practical Dark Tones: Charcoal colour hides minor dirt between cleanings
• Family-Friendly: Safe for children and pets, easy to maintain, comfortable underfoot
• Underfloor Heating Compatible: Works seamlessly with modern heating systems for added comfort
• Trusted Brand: Over 50 years of Karndean flooring expertise and innovation
• Lifetime Residential Warranty: Same comprehensive warranty as gluedown Knight Tile

Experience the bold sophistication of natural charcoal slate with the modern convenience of Knight Tile Rigid Core. Honed Charcoal Slate SCB-ST19-18 delivers dramatic elegance, DIY-friendly installation, superior acoustic performance, and 100% waterproof durability – all at entry-range pricing with Karndean's trusted quality and the striking beauty of honed charcoal slate without the maintenance, cold surface, or installation complexity.