Chevron Flooring

Chevron or herringbone?

Both are zig-zag parquet patterns, but they are made differently. In herringbone, rectangular blocks with square ends meet at right angles, each butting against the side of the next, so the zig-zag is broken and lively. In chevron, the ends of each block are cut at an angle (usually 45° or 30°), so the blocks meet tip to tip and the zig-zag runs in clean, continuous lines. Chevron looks more streamlined and contemporary; herringbone looks more traditional and hides small marks a little better. Both suit period and modern homes.

How to choose chevron flooring

Material

Engineered oak chevron: real oak, stable over underfloor heating and concrete, and can usually be sanded if the wear layer is 3mm or more. Vinyl chevron: water-resistant, warm and quiet; the choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Laminate chevron: very scratch-resistant and the most affordable way to get the look in dry rooms.

Angle and block size

A 45° chevron gives a bold, classic V; a 30° chevron gives a longer, gentler point. Longer blocks make a dramatic, sweeping pattern in large rooms; shorter blocks make a tighter pattern for hallways and smaller rooms.

Colour and finish

Light and natural oak keep the pattern elegant and calm; smoked and dark tones make the V stand out; grey suits modern schemes. In real wood, lacquer is the easiest to clean and oil can be touched up locally.

Planning a chevron floor

Because the points must meet exactly, chevron depends on accurate setting out more than any other pattern. The fitter snaps a centre line along which the points will run, usually along the length of the room or hallway, so the arrow leads to the window, the garden doors or the far end of the space. Chevron uses left- and right-hand (A and B) blocks in equal numbers. Every block at the wall is cut at an angle, so order about 10% extra for cutting waste; our measuring guide shows how.

Fitting chevron flooring

Glued chevron blocks are bedded in a suitable flooring adhesive on a smooth, level subfloor and are best laid by an experienced fitter; we can put you in touch with trusted installers. Click chevron locks together over an underlay and is possible for a patient DIYer who sets out the centre line accurately. Leave an expansion gap at the walls and cover it with skirting or beading. A border of straight blocks round the room gives a formal finish. Our installation guides explain each method.

Where chevron works best

• Hallways: the V draws you in and makes the hall feel longer.
• Long living and dining rooms: run the points towards the window or garden.
• Kitchens: vinyl chevron copes with spills and still looks elegant.
• Bathrooms: vinyl chevron only, with sealed edges.

Looking after chevron

Vacuum with a soft brush head, clean with a well-wrung mop and a cleaner made for the floor type, and use felt pads and door mats. Wood chevron can be re-oiled or re-lacquered when it looks tired.