When you start looking into patterned wood flooring, two names keep popping up: herringbone and chevron. At first glance, they look almost identical — both are stylish zigzag patterns that instantly elevate a room. But if you’ve ever scratched your head wondering what the real difference is, you’re not alone.
The good news? You don’t need to be an interior designer to get it. In this guide, we’ll explain herringbone and chevron in simple, everyday terms — no jargon, no overcomplication. We’ll show you how each pattern works, how it changes the look and feel of a room, and which might be the right fit for your home.
By the end, you’ll not only spot the difference instantly, but you’ll also know which one makes the most sense for your space, your budget, and your style.
The Core Difference, Simplified
When it comes to patterned wood flooring, herringbone and chevron often get confused — and it’s easy to see why. Both create a zigzag effect, but the way they’re laid and the look they achieve are quite different. Here’s the simplest way to understand it without diving into technical jargon.
Herringbone: Think of the skeleton of a fish. Each plank is cut with a straight edge and laid at a 90-degree angle to the next. This creates a broken zigzag effect where the planks overlap, giving the floor a lively, textured appearance.
Chevron: Picture a row of arrows or the chevrons on a military uniform. Each plank is cut at an angle (typically 45°) so that they meet neatly in a point. This forms a continuous, seamless zigzag that looks sharp, uniform, and directional.
Herringbone vs Chevron at a Glance
| Feature | Herringbone | Chevron |
|---|---|---|
| Plank Cut | Straight edge | Angled edge (usually 45°) |
| Pattern Shape | Broken zigzag | Continuous “V” shape |
| Analogy | Fish skeleton | Arrows / military chevrons |
| Visual Effect | Textured, traditional, classic | Sleek, flowing, contemporary |
| Installation | Easier to recognise and lay | Requires precision cutting and alignment |
Why It Matters
Knowing the difference between herringbone and chevron isn’t just about naming patterns. The choice you make can change the feel of an entire room, from how spacious it looks to the atmosphere it creates.
Aesthetics and Illusion
Chevron: Because the planks meet at a point and form a continuous “V” shape, the eye naturally follows the lines along the floor. This creates a sense of flow and direction, which can make a room appear longer, sleeker, and more symmetrical. It’s particularly effective in narrow or rectangular spaces where you want to enhance the feeling of length.
Herringbone: The broken zigzag effect gives more texture, rhythm, and movement to a floor. Instead of leading the eye in one direction, the pattern scatters it, creating visual interest and depth. This makes herringbone especially good at giving a dynamic, lively character to a room.
Suitability for Different Spaces
Herringbone: With its roots in classic design, herringbone works beautifully in period properties, traditional homes, or spaces where you want a timeless look. It complements high ceilings, ornate mouldings, and vintage décor, adding richness without overpowering the room.
Chevron: Thanks to its clean, continuous lines, chevron is a natural fit for modern, minimalist, and contemporary interiors. It creates a sleek canvas that pairs well with open-plan living, sharp furniture lines, and a less-is-more design approach.
In short, herringbone feels warm, textured, and classic, while chevron feels streamlined, elegant, and modern. Choosing between them isn’t just about taste — it’s about how you want your space to look and feel every day.
Practical Considerations for the DIYer
Beyond looks, most people want to know: how hard is it to install, and how much will it cost? Here are the key points every DIYer should weigh up before choosing between herringbone and chevron.
Installation Difficulty
Herringbone: While still more complex than laying standard straight planks, herringbone is generally considered more forgiving. The planks meet at 90-degree angles, which makes alignment simpler and easier to correct if things start to drift slightly.
Chevron: Chevron is a bigger challenge. Because each plank is cut at an angle (usually 45°), the alignment has to be spot on for the points to meet cleanly. Even a small error can throw off the entire pattern, making it a trickier option for DIY installation.
Material Waste & Cost
Herringbone: With straight cuts, there’s usually less waste. This makes it a bit more budget-friendly, both in terms of materials and labour.
Chevron: The angled cuts mean you’ll almost always end up with more offcuts and waste. Over a whole room, this adds up — and because precision is key, professional installation is often recommended, which increases overall costs.
Subfloor Preparation
No matter which pattern you choose, success starts with what’s underneath. Both herringbone and chevron require a perfectly level and dry subfloor. Any bumps, dips, or damp spots can cause gaps, lifting, or long-term damage to the floor. Taking the time to prepare properly will save frustration and expense later.
Expert Tips & Style Inspiration
Flooring isn’t just about covering the ground beneath your feet — it’s one of the biggest style statements in your home. To help you picture how these patterns work in real life, here are some simple, practical tips.
Layman’s Terms Style Guide
Chevron: Works wonders in spaces with lots of natural light. Sunlight bouncing off the sharp angles highlights the continuous flow of the “V” pattern. For a real design statement, pair chevron flooring with minimal furniture and clean, modern lines.
Herringbone: Best for creating a rich, classic feel. A simple, neutral-coloured rug can frame the zigzag beautifully, allowing the floor to take centre stage. In darker finishes, herringbone adds warmth and character to period homes; in lighter tones, it can brighten and soften contemporary interiors.
The “Undecided” Buyer’s Guide
Still on the fence? Here’s a quick way to make your decision:
If you want a classic, timeless look → Choose Herringbone.
Perfect for traditional homes, period features, or anyone who loves a floor with heritage and depth.If you want a clean, modern, high-impact design → Choose Chevron.
Ideal for contemporary apartments, open-plan living, and interiors where you want the floor to feel sleek and directional.If you’re DIY-ing on a tighter budget → Herringbone is usually more forgiving.
Less waste, simpler cuts, and easier to correct if you’re not an expert fitter.If you’re after a dramatic statement floor → Chevron wins.
Its seamless, arrow-like flow instantly draws the eye and elevates the space.
FAQ: Herringbone vs Chevron Flooring
Is Chevron or Herringbone Better?
Neither is strictly “better” — it depends on what you want. Herringbone offers a classic, textured look that suits traditional homes, while Chevron creates a sleek, flowing effect perfect for modern spaces.
Is Chevron and Herringbone Outdated?
Not at all. Both patterns have been around for centuries, yet they’re still highly popular in modern interior design. Designers regularly use them in high-end projects, so they’re far from going out of style.
Does Herringbone or Chevron Make a Room Look Bigger?
Chevron can make a room feel longer and more spacious thanks to its continuous directional lines.
Herringbone doesn’t necessarily make a room look bigger, but it adds depth and character, which can make the space feel more dynamic.
Do Chevron and Herringbone Increase Home Value?
Yes, both can add value. Patterned wood floors are often seen as a premium feature. Herringbone appeals to buyers looking for timeless charm, while Chevron attracts those who love modern, design-led interiors.
Which is more expensive, Chevron or Herringbone Flooring?
Chevron is usually more expensive. This is because of the angled cuts (which lead to more material waste) and the precision required during installation. Herringbone tends to be slightly more cost-effective and DIY-friendly.
Which is easier to match with furniture?
Herringbone is easier to pair with a variety of furniture styles — from classic wooden pieces to modern minimalism.
Chevron works best with contemporary, clean-lined furniture, but can sometimes clash with very ornate or traditional pieces.
Is Chevron or Herringbone Harder to Maintain?
Maintenance is about the same. Both patterns use the same materials, so cleaning and care don’t differ. The only subtle difference is visual: herringbone’s busier pattern can hide dust and small marks better, while chevron’s cleaner lines may show them sooner.
Ready to Order?
Choosing between herringbone and chevron isn’t just about spotting the difference in pattern — it’s about deciding the atmosphere you want in your home. Herringbone brings timeless charm and texture, while Chevron delivers sleek, flowing lines for a more modern edge. Both are premium choices that can transform a room and add lasting value.
If you’re ready to see the difference in person, Wood and Beyond make it easy. With over 17 years of experience, more than 6,000 Trustpilot reviews with an Excellent score, and a reputation as one of the UK’s most established online flooring specialists, they’re the go-to name for quality wood flooring.
Browse their collections today and order 100% free samples to compare the styles in your own home:
That way, you can make your decision with confidence — and enjoy flooring that looks as good in real life as it does in your imagination.
