Herringbone Laminate Flooring

Frequently asked questions

What should you know before fitting herringbone laminate?

Herringbone laminate gives you the classic look of parquet at a lower cost than real wood. Its click-together blocks are also easier to fit than traditional glued parquet, but setting out the pattern takes care and time.

Unlike straight planks, herringbone is usually laid from a centre line rather than starting at a wall. You’ll need to mark out the room accurately before fitting the first block, as a starting line that isn’t square can affect the alignment of the entire floor.

You’ll also need to allow 10% to 15% extra flooring for cuts and waste. The usual considerations for laminate still apply: its HDF core can swell if water reaches the joints, and scratches can’t be sanded out. Our guide to laying herringbone flooring explains how to prepare and set out the pattern.

What underlay and subfloor does herringbone laminate need?

Herringbone laminate is a floating floor, so it usually needs underlay. Some of our 14mm Embrace herringbone boards have underlay already attached, which can make fitting quicker. Be sure to check the product details before buying a separate underlay. If you’re fitting over concrete or screed, you’ll also need a damp-proof membrane, either built into the underlay or laid separately.

A level subfloor is especially important because herringbone uses shorter boards and has more joints than a straight-plank floor. Aim for no more than 3mm of variation over a 2m span to prevent the boards from moving and the joints from opening.

Leave the unopened packs in the room for 48 hours before fitting, and allow a 10 to 12mm expansion gap around walls and pipes. Take a look at our laminate underlay range which includes options for different rooms and subfloors.

How does the cost of herringbone laminate compare with straight planks?

Herringbone laminate can cost a similar amount per square metre to straight-plank laminate, but it’s usually more expensive to fit. The pattern takes longer to set out and requires more cuts, so professional fitting charges may be higher.

Fitting it yourself can reduce the overall cost, although you’ll need to measure and set out the pattern carefully. Order free samples of herringbone and wood-effect laminate to compare the colours, board sizes and finishes in your room.

Which herringbone laminate finish will age best?

A matt or satin herringbone laminate in a natural oak tone is less likely to look dated. Herringbone itself is a classic pattern, so it’s usually the colour and finish that determine how well the floor ages. High-gloss surfaces and strong orange or yellow tones tend to suit more specific interior styles.

For a versatile finish, look at natural, smoked or limed oak shades and let the pattern provide the character. You can also browse our parquet flooring range to compare herringbone finishes across different flooring types.

Which herringbone laminate suits a small room?

Smaller herringbone boards in a light or natural shade usually work best in a small room. Large blocks can make a compact space look busy, while very dark flooring may make it feel more enclosed. The diagonal pattern can also help draw the eye across a narrow hallway.

Where possible, run the pattern along the room’s longest sightline to create a greater sense of space. Our light laminate range includes herringbone shades such as Polar Oak and Arctic Beige. Order free samples and view them in the room throughout the day, as natural and artificial light can change how each colour looks.

Can you use herringbone laminate in a kitchen or bathroom?

You can use herringbone laminate in a kitchen or bathroom only if the product is specifically rated for that room. Standard laminate isn’t waterproof, and its HDF core can swell if water gets into the joints. As herringbone flooring has more joints than a straight-plank floor, careful installation and prompt cleaning of spills are particularly important.

Check each product page for its water-resistance rating and room suitability. For bathrooms or kitchens where frequent spills are likely, herringbone LVT may be a more practical choice. It offers a similar patterned look with better protection against moisture.