Herringbone and Chevron are both classic patterns that have been used in floor coverings of all materials and homes of all types.
They are both simple yet elegant patterns that can give your space a sense of luxury and attention to detail over simple horizontal slats or more complicated patterns.
Many people often get confused between Herringbone and Chevron, as they do look quite similar. Both patterns include short, angled pieces of wood laid out to form an arrow shape, but the arrangement of the wood pieces and the way they are cut is what sets them apart.
Creating Herringbone vs. Chevron Patterns
The main difference between Herringbone and Chevron is the way the patterns are created. When creating a Herringbone patterned floor, rectangular planks are all cut down to the same size with a straight edge on either end. Then, the planks are laid out at 90° against each other. This creates the classic zigzag pattern of the Herringbone pattern. This pattern creates more movement and spaciousness in any room it is installed in.
To create a Chevron pattern, each plank is cut to the same size, but this time with an angle at either end. When each board is cut with the same angle, they can be placed against each other to create a large V. These Vs are laid in a long row, creating a strong of arrows across your floor. Chevron is a simpler pattern to create but still offers movement and detail.
How to Tell: Herringbone vs. Chevron
The best way to identify whether a floor you’re looking at is Herringbone or Chevron is to look at the ends of each board and the angle at which they are aligned. If the ends of the board are flat and align with each other at 90°, you have a Herringbone pattern. If the ends of the board are cut at an angle, you have a Chevron floor. Chevron flooring can have a variety of different looks, depending on the angle that is chosen.
Another way to tell the difference between Herringbone vs. Chevron is to look at the point of the V that they create. If it is a Chevron pattern, the V will come to a point. On a Herringbone floor, the point will look overlapped and broken.
Customization Options
A simple Herringbone or Chevron floor pattern is a great option, but if you are looking for something a little extra, there are some creative customization options that you can pair with these classic looks.
If you decide to go with Chevron, you have endless options to cut the angle of your wood to alter the shape of the V. Go for an extra pointy and skinny V or make them nice and wide angles. You can also choose to use multiple colors of wood planks, either alternating between two colors for a bold pattern or using a few similar shades for a more varied look.
For Herringbone floors, you have the option to change up the length or width of each wood plank to change how the pattern looks. Wider planks will allow you to see more of the wood’s natural pattern. Similar to Chevron, you can also mix and match colors or stains to provide more variety to your patterned floor.
Pricing of Herringbone vs. Chevron
Herringbone and Chevron floors are typically more expensive than standard wood floors, both for the raw materials and installation. When cutting, more time is needed to cut down the smaller pieces of wood, and Chevron can be especially time-intensive with its precise angled cuts. Additionally, installation of these floors requires a high level of precision and can be extremely time-consuming. For both of these reasons, expect to pay more for both your flooring and installation if you decide to go with Herringbone or Chevron.
Considering Herringbone or Chevron for your new wood floors? Give our team of specialists a call at Oak & Broad so we can help you decide which option is best for you and your home.