Herringbone and chevron wood flooring

What is the difference between herringbone and chevron?

Both use short rectangular boards laid at an angle. In herringbone the boards have square ends and meet in a staggered zigzag, with the end of one board butting against the side of the next. In chevron the ends are cut at an angle so boards meet point to point, forming a continuous V. Herringbone reads more traditional and textured; chevron looks more graphic and formal. Our herringbone or chevron guide goes further.

Which rooms suit a patterned floor?

Patterns look best where you can see enough of them: living rooms, dining rooms, foyers and long hallways. In very small rooms, or rooms mostly covered by furniture and rugs, the pattern gets lost. In many prewar buildings a herringbone floor is a fitting successor to original parquet. If you still have parquet, read repair or replace first.

How is installation different from straight planks?

Pattern floors take more planning. The installer usually sets a centerline along the main view, often from the entry, and works out from it so the pattern lands evenly at both walls. Many pattern products come as left and right boards. There is more cutting at the edges, so you should order more overage than for a straight lay. Pattern floors are typically glued or nailed rather than floated, but follow each product's instructions.

Should you add a border?

A border of straight boards around the room can make edge cuts cleaner and frame the pattern. Where a herringbone room meets a straight-lay hallway, plan the threshold carefully. See floor transitions.