Herringbone hybrid flooring combines the practicality of a hybrid board with one of the most popular flooring patterns. Instead of straight rows, the boards form a distinctive zigzag shape that creates a dynamic, textural look.
Although striking, herringbone patterns require more care than a standard plank layout. Product compatibility, subfloor condition, room size, pattern direction and installer skill must be considered before installation. Ensure the selected range includes boards specifically created for herringbone patterns and suitable for your property’s conditions.
What Makes Herringbone Different from Standard Plank Layouts
The standard hybrid plank is typically laid in straight rows using either tongue-and-groove or click locking mechanisms. Herringbone follows a similar principle but uses a pattern of interlocking Vs. to shape the floor. This means that rather than simply placing boards end-to-end to form rows, boards must be placed with their ends meeting the side of a board in the adjacent row.
This creates a distinctive pattern that makes a floor appear more dynamic. Whereas straight planks have the visual bias of following the direction of the grain, herringbone boards offer more visual movement. A herringbone pattern can bring additional structure to an entrance hall, add visual drama to an open-plan living space or introduce much needed detail to a minimalist room scheme.
Herringbone and chevron patterns are often mistaken for one another, but the two styles are different. Herringbone boards traditionally have square ends that meet at right angles, while chevron boards have angled ends that meet to form a point. This is significant, since the two patterns cannot be installed in the same way. Boards and joints also vary in design, making it impossible to install one pattern using the boards from another.
While subtle, the difference in joint design between herringbone and chevron is significant. The two patterns must be installed using their specific boards and methods, since mixing them will create unacceptable joint gaps. It is also important to remember that the visual impact of the pattern can be affected by board width, colour and pattern direction. Lighter oak tones provide a more delicate contrast, while darker tones create a bolder statement. Due to the intricacy of the pattern, joints will also be more apparent.
Is Herringbone Available in Hybrid Flooring?
Hybrid flooring is available in a range of patterns, one of which is herringbone. Herringbone hybrid flooring offers an alternative to traditional timber or engineered boards. A hybrid herringbone floor can provide the appearance of timber while benefitting from hybrid’s superior construction and easier maintenance.
However, hybrid boards are not always compatible with herringbone patterns. It is important to ensure that the product range specifically includes floorboards appropriate for the pattern, since some may use a standard plank layout. Some herringbone hybrid ranges also feature shortened planks or different left and right hand boards to facilitate the pattern.
Products specifically designed for herringbone patterns should have the appropriate fitting instructions and warnings, since using straight plank hybrid boards will produce unacceptable joints. Before purchasing, consider the following:
- Whether the product range is specifically suited to herringbone pattern installation
- Whether left and right hand planks must be purchased separately
- The dimensions of the boards and coverage per pack
- The underlay or attached underlay recommendations
- Expansion gap, transition and skirting requirements
- The product’s suitability to sunlight exposure, moisture and subfloor conditions
- Residential, commercial and warranty considerations
The water resistance of hybrid flooring varies between products, so it is important to remember that not all hybrid boards can be used in all conditions. Always refer to specific technical information or consult the manufacturer rather than relying on generalised claims about hybrid flooring.
Installation Complexity: Why Herringbone Costs More
Herringbone flooring installation is generally more complex than installing standard hybrid plank patterns. The installer must ensure that reference lines are true, the pattern is fitted correctly and that the pattern remains consistent throughout the room. Minor deviations from the pattern can cause significant visual differences, particularly in later courses.
The floor’s subfloor must also be prepared to a suitable standard, since herringbone boards offer less flexibility than straight plank boards. This is especially important if the pattern will incorporate numerous short joins. Skirting, door clearances and transitions should also be considered before installation commences.
There are several other factors that can contribute to the complexity of the installation:
- The need to plan the layout in accordance with centre lines and directional aesthetics
- The need to separate left and right hand planks in some systems
- Creating additional perimeter, doorway and corner cuts in some cases
- The need to create pattern consistency throughout connected rooms
- Additional cutting waste that may arise due to pattern complexity
- The need to incorporate borders, feature planks or special transitions
- The need to work around islands, fireplaces and other internal features
When laying herringbone flooring, it is not always necessary to begin installation along the longest wall. Instead, some patterns look better when the boards follow the directional focus of an entrance or hallway. A dry layout can help to visualise the pattern’s finish at the front and rear of the room as well as the layout of any join.
Due to the additional complexity of patterned hybrid flooring, it is best left to professional installers. An experienced installer can calculate the requirements of the subfloor, read the instructions for the selected product range and plan the layout to best suit the property. Maple Floors offers
The right herringbone floor depends on a number of factors, including the suitability of the product to the room and the desired aesthetic. It is always a good idea to view sample boards in the room where they will be installed since lighting, artificial lighting, wall colours and cabinetry all affect the final appearance of the floor.
By browsing the Maple Floors range, customers can view the different hybrid colours and patterns as well as those that include herringbone options. If they have questions about the product ranges or need assistance with measurements and installation, they can always contact Maple Floors to arrange a professional installation in Melbourne.
Discuss your herringbone flooring needs today at maplefloors.com.au
Best Rooms and Styles for a Herringbone Pattern
Herringbone patterns suit a variety of room sizes, but they are most effective in larger rooms that allow the pattern to be seen at a distance. The pattern can also be used in smaller rooms, but the visual impact of the design should be tempered by the use of lighter tones or fewer exposed floorboards.
The most common rooms for herringbone patterns include:
- Entryways: The pattern makes a strong first impression that leads occupants and visitors into the room
- Living rooms: Particularly with minimal furniture and neutral colour schemes
- Open-plan living and dining: To create a sense of continuity between the two areas
- Hallways: Due to the directional visual bias of the pattern
- Bedrooms and home offices: As a more structured alternative to standard floor patterns
In kitchens and other moisture-prone areas, it is necessary to select a hybrid floor that is suitable for the conditions and has been tested for the application. Similarly, wet areas such as bathrooms and laundries should always be reviewed by the manufacturer to confirm suitability for installation.
Herringbone patterns are also versatile in terms of interior design styles. Lighter tones suit Scandinavian, coastal and contemporary styles, while mid-tones complement transitional and Australian modern designs. Darker boards can be selected for more traditional or Art Deco-inspired schemes. In a highly detailed room, it may be best to select a lighter tone to avoid overpowering other joinery, cabinetry or furniture.
When fitting herringbone hybrid flooring in connected rooms, it is necessary to consider whether the pattern should flow between the two or follow the directional requirements of each space.
How to Maintain a Herringbone Hybrid Floor
Hybrid herringbone flooring is generally simple to maintain, but the correct methods should be followed to protect the floor and its intricate jointing. Always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer since appropriate cleaning methods may vary between ranges.
A soft-bristled broom, microfibre dust mop or vacuum with a hard floor setting should be used to remove loose dirt from the surface of the floor. This should be done regularly since abrasive particles can scratch the surface of the board. For deeper cleaning, a well-ringed microfibre mop can be used with a suitable hybrid floor cleaner.
Everyday maintenance should also include:
- Wiping up spills immediately to prevent staining
- Using doormats at entrances to reduce tracked dirt and moisture
- Using felt floor protectors on furniture legs
- Lifting heavy items rather than sliding them across the floor
- Keeping pets’ nails trimmed
- Avoiding the use of abrasive cleaning agents
- Avoiding steam cleaners unless the manufacturer specifically recommends them
Since herringbone patterns have more defined joints, dirt can accumulate in these areas and become difficult to clean. It is a good idea to clean in both directions so as to access the dirt between the floorboards. Similarly, rugs can help to protect high-traffic areas, but they should also be cleaned frequently and have a suitable non-slip backing to prevent damage to the floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any hybrid plank be installed in a herringbone pattern?
No, the product must be specifically designed for herringbone pattern installation. Due to the nature of the pattern, herringbone ranges typically utilise shortened planks or left and right hand planks that are not found in standard hybrid ranges. It is also important to follow the fitting instructions, since using standard planks will lead to unacceptable joint gaps between boards.
Is herringbone hybrid flooring suitable for small rooms?
It can be, depending on the tone and pattern direction. Lighter tones are less overpowering in smaller rooms, while pattern direction can also help to create the illusion of greater space. It is also important to consider how much floor space will be visible, since furniture can greatly impact the visual impact of the pattern.
Does herringbone create more cutting waste?
It typically requires a larger cutting allowance than standard straight plank hybrid boards due to the pattern, but this depends on the room size, board width, border design, pattern direction and other factors. These must be discussed with an installer before beginning the job.
Which direction should a herringbone floor run?
There is no fixed direction for a herringbone floor, but the pattern should follow the property’s focal line. Where the front door frames the view to a particular point, the herringbone pattern should follow this line to create an inviting entrance. Alternatively, the pattern may follow the length of a room, an island or the prevailing natural light.
Can I install herringbone hybrid flooring myself?
An experienced DIYer may be able to install herringbone hybrid flooring successfully, but the pattern has specific requirements. Professional installers understand the setting out, subfloor preparation and cutting requirements better than amateur installers, so it is recommended that complex jobs are left to professionals. This is especially important where pattern, transition and warranty requirements are concerned.