Available in a range of colours, finishes, textures and sizes, herringbone tiles can complement both traditional and contemporary interiors. Opt for wood effect tiles to create a classic parquet-inspired floor, or choose stone, marble and other effects to add personality and character. Herringbone tiles are a highly versatile style, and can be used throughout the home from kitchens, bathrooms and hallways to living areas, utility rooms and porches.

Planning Your Herringbone Floor

A herringbone layout requires more thought-out planning than a straightforward brick-bond or straight layout. It’s important to consider the room size, tile size, pattern direction, grout width and where cuts will fall around the room or area.

The direction and cuts of the pattern influence the finished feel. The way you want the herringbone to lead towards may be an important consideration, for example, leading towards the door or towards the focal area of the space.

N&C Expert Tip: Plan your layout before and consider where the cut tiles will land in the space. Pre planning your layout ensures the pattern is balanced throughout.

Herringbone also doesn’t follow the standard wastage recommendations, as the increase in cuts mean more waste.

N&C Expert Tip: Planning your layout and knowing cuts allows you to estimate equate the amount of wastage. An additional 25% is recommended for wastage.

FAQs

What is a herringbone tile pattern?

A herringbone tile pattern is where rectangle or plank tiles are installed on a repeated angle to create a V-shaped or zigzag pattern. They create diagonal movement in a space, forming a geometric-feel floor. Herringbone floor patterns provide a contemporary alternative to classic straight or brick-bond layouts.

Where can you use herringbone floor tiles?

Herringbone floor tiles can be use anywhere across the home, offering an extremely versatile base. From kitchens, bathrooms and hallways to living areas, utility rooms and bedrooms. Although, adding a geometric and characterful feel to interiors, a herringbone layout provides a timeless, long-lasting design.

Are herringbone tiles suitable for kitchen floors?

Yes, porcelain or ceramic tiles are suitable for kitchen floors, with herringbone tiles simply being the layout in which they are installed. Herringbone kitchen tiles introduce movement and a decorative touch to this practical room. Available in countless designs, porcelain wood or stone effect herringbone tiles are ideal for open-plan kitchen, living area spaces.

Can you use herringbone tiles on a bathroom floor?

Both porcelain and ceramic tiles can be used on a bathroom floor in a herringbone layout. Porcelain herringbone floor tiles are recommended due to their lower water absorption rate and enhance durability, a practical solution for busy households. Herringbone patterns can be completed in any style tile from marble effects and stone effects to neutral or bold colours, meaning endless versatility for a bathroom scheme.

What tiles work best for a herringbone floor?

For a durable, long-lasting herringbone floor, choose rectangular porcelain tiles. Wood-effect tiles are a popular choice, while block colours and stone or marble-effect tiles also work well. The best herringbone floor all depends on your style, room and preference.

Can wood-effect tiles be laid in a herringbone pattern?

Yes, wood effect plank tiles can be laid in a herringbone pattern to replicate traditional parquet flooring. Herringbone wood effect tiles are available in an array of sizes, tones and finishes allowing you to opt for traditional oak-inspired floors to more contemporary styles.

What is 90-degree herringbone?

90-degree herringbone refers to the angle that rectangular tiles are laid at to create their parquet pattern. Unlike standard brick-bond or plank layouts, 90-degree herringbone is installed with each piece’s end touching the side of the piece next to it, creating a geometric, zigzag finish.

Which direction should herringbone floor tiles be laid?

There is not a particular direction in which you should lay herringbone tiles. It all depends on room size, layout and preference. You may wish to have the herringbone pattern leading to or away from the door or pointing towards the focal point of the space. Consider the layout and permanent features before deciding the direction.

Do herringbone floors need more tiles because of cutting and wastage?

Yes, herringbone floors require more tiles due to the increased number of offcuts. Unlike simple patterns, herringbone layouts require more cuts around the perimeter and other fixed features. Recommended additional wastage for herringbone patterns is 25% on top of room size measurements.

Are herringbone floor tiles difficult to install?

Herringbone layouts require careful planning and consideration pre-installation to ensure the pattern is aligned and balanced. It’s important to consider room size, layout direction, tile dimension, grout width and where cuts will fall around the perimeter.