Herringbone LVT Flooring

You've always loved the look of a herringbone parquet floor, but you've seen the cost of real wood, the sanding it eventually needs and the way it reacts to a spilt kettle. That's the gap herringbone LVT fills: the pattern of parquet with the practicality of vinyl. Here's how it works, where it suits best and what to know before you order. If you'd like to see a few finishes in your own light first, you can order free flooring samples.

Here are some herringbone LVT options from our range.

Whichever finish you lean towards, the sections below explain how herringbone LVT behaves once it's in your home.

What is herringbone LVT, and why choose it?

Herringbone LVT is vinyl flooring cut into short planks and laid at right angles to form a zigzag pattern. It gives you the classic parquet look in a wipe-clean, waterproof surface, so it suits busy households that want character without the upkeep of real wood. Our waterproof LVT and SPC flooring includes a wide choice of colours and finishes, and you can narrow the range to herringbone LVT planks in a click. You'll also find the pattern in our Camaro herringbone vinyl range, so check each product page for its specification.

Herringbone or chevron: what's the difference?

Herringbone planks have square-cut ends, while chevron planks have angled ends that meet in a continuous V. Herringbone gives a slightly staggered, woven look, and chevron looks sharper and more graphic. Chevron needs precisely cut ends, so it tends to be the more exacting of the two to lay. Both are available in vinyl. If you like the idea but prefer cleaner lines, take a look at our chevron LVT flooring.

Is herringbone LVT practical for a busy home?

Yes, that's most of its appeal. LVT has a wipe-clean, waterproof surface, so spills, muddy shoes and everyday mess don't soak in. It's also warmer underfoot than ceramic tile. A matt or textured finish tends to hide marks better than a glossy one, and the pattern itself helps disguise small scuffs.

The things to keep in mind:

• Vinyl can't be sanded and refinished like real wood, so choose a finish you'll be happy with for years.
• Heavy furniture and sharp objects can mark any vinyl, so use felt pads under legs.
• Always check the product details for the exact wear layer, installation method and suitability for each room.

Can herringbone LVT be click-fitted, or does it need gluing?

It depends on the product: some herringbone LVT clicks together, and some is glued to the subfloor. Click planks lock into each other without adhesive, which many people find simpler. Glue-down planks are bonded to the subfloor and need the right adhesive, and you can find suitable LVT adhesives in our range. Either way, a flat, clean and dry subfloor makes the biggest difference to how the finished pattern looks, so check the product page for the installation method before you order.

Why does herringbone need extra flooring, and why does fitting cost more?

Herringbone needs more flooring than a straight lay and takes longer to fit. Every plank has to be cut and aligned to the pattern, and the edges of the room need lots of angled cuts, so more of each pack ends up as offcuts. A fitter also spends more time setting out the pattern and checking the lines as the floor goes down.

That means two practical points:

• Order more than the room's measured area. The extra depends on the room's shape, the product and your fitter's method, so confirm it before you order.
• Ask for a fitting quote early. Herringbone is usually quoted at more than a straight plank floor, and the exact figure depends on the room.

Do borders and blocks suit herringbone LVT?

They can, and they're a good way to finish the floor. A border of straight planks frames the pattern and hides the awkward cuts at the walls, and a feature strip can add detail in a larger room. If you want a bolder layout, our vinyl parquet range offers other ways to create a parquet look. Plan the border before you order, so the extra material is included.

Which rooms suit herringbone LVT best?

Hallways, kitchens and living rooms are the natural fit, because they combine heavy use with spaces where the pattern can be seen. It can also work in bathrooms and bedrooms, but check each product's suitability for wet areas before you order.

One extra idea worth considering: plan the layout from the centre of the room, not the walls. Starting at the middle means the cut planks at each edge are balanced, instead of leaving narrow slivers on one side. It's the main reason herringbone looks neat when it's fitted well.

How does herringbone LVT compare with other options?

Herringbone LVT gives you the look of parquet with far less maintenance. Here's the quick version:

If you'd rather have the real thing, our real wood parquet flooring is worth a look.

What finishing touches does herringbone LVT need?

A pattern floor deserves neat edges. Add thresholds and edgings between rooms so the pattern stops cleanly at doorways, and finish with skirting boards that suit the look.

Who can supply and fit herringbone LVT in London?

We can. Herringbone takes more care to set out than straight planks, so a good fitter makes a visible difference. Our team supplies the flooring and offers a professional floor fitting service across London, so you can choose, order and have it fitted in one go. Not sure which finish suits your room? Pick a few favourites and get your free samples to try at home.

Frequently Asked Questions about Herringbone LVT Flooring

Can you get herringbone in LVT?

Yes. Herringbone LVT comes in short planks laid in the classic zigzag pattern, in a range of colours and finishes. Browse our herringbone LVT planks to see what's available.

Is herringbone LVT harder to fit than straight planks?

Yes, usually. The pattern needs careful setting out, and every plank has to be aligned, so fitting takes longer than a straight lay. For the neatest result, many people choose professional fitting.

Is herringbone LVT more expensive to fit?

Usually, yes. Herringbone takes longer to set out and cut than a straight plank floor, so fitting is normally quoted at a higher rate. The exact difference depends on the room, so ask for a quote before you commit.

Can herringbone LVT be clicked together?

Some can. Certain herringbone LVT planks use a click system, while others are glued down to the subfloor. Check the product page for the installation method before you order.

How much extra flooring do I need for herringbone?

More than for a straight lay, because the pattern and the angled cuts at the walls create more offcuts. The right amount depends on the room, the product and your fitter, so confirm it with your fitter or us before ordering.

Herringbone or chevron: what's the difference?

Herringbone planks have square ends and form a staggered zigzag, while chevron planks have angled ends that meet in a clean V. Chevron looks sharper and more graphic, and herringbone looks more traditional.

Is herringbone LVT waterproof?

The LVT surface is waterproof, so spills wipe away without soaking in. Always check the specific product details for suitability in wet rooms such as bathrooms.

Can herringbone LVT go on underfloor heating?

It depends on the exact product and your heating system, so check before ordering. Don't assume every floor in a category is suitable. If you're unsure, ask our team.