When most people think about herringbone flooring, the first thing that comes to mind is tile flooring. The creative designs that are possible for tile installation are seemingly endless. However, when you think about wood laminate flooring, you may only think about traditional installation patterns. If you are searching for a creative way to add personality and elegance to your space, herringbone laminate flooring may be the perfect solution.
The History of Herringbone in Interior Design
The first known use of the herringbone pattern in design or architecture was when the Romans incorporated the pattern in their roads. The functional purpose of this pattern was to give the road’s stability and strength. Herringbone flooring, however, was not found inside homes until at least the 16th century. By the 18th century, it was very popular in elite homes owned by nobility and other wealthy individuals. While some people believe that the herringbone pattern should specifically be reserved for use in buildings with classic architecture, many others have successfully incorporated it in homes with modern, contemporary or other decorative themes.
The Beautiful Impact of Herringbone Laminate Flooring
Herringbone laminate flooring utilizes traditional planks that are installed at a 90-degree angle. The result is an arrow-like trend that uniquely points in opposing directions. Through this fascinating design, a sense of movement is introduced throughout the floor. More than that, the flooring becomes a focal point in the space rather than a backdrop. The contrasting flow extends the eye so that the room feels larger and airier. Generally, the herringbone pattern should be used in larger rooms.
How to Choose the Right Material for Herringbone Floors
Kronotex Pisa Oak
One of the many benefits associated with laminate flooring is the wide range of styles and colors that it is available in. Whether you are interested in blonde tones that complement a contemporary space, gray tones that incorporate a touch of rustic charm to space or rich tones with a glossy finish that speaks to the room’s sophistication, any rectangular laminate planks can be used. You understandably want to maximize the life of your beautiful new herringbone floor, so choose a quality material that has a thick top layer and a waterproof base layer.
The Importance of Pattern Size
Laminate wood planks are available in varying sizes, and both the length and width of the planks that you select will directly impact the effect of the herringbone pattern in your home. Long, slender planks will extend the diagonal rows outward while squeezing the arrow-like pattern together. On the other hand, shorter and wider planks will squeeze the rows together while extending the pattern outward. When selecting the right pattern size for your space, pay attention to the direction that you want to lay the pattern. This is because the prevalence of this unique pattern across the floor will directly impact the feel of the space.
The Benefits of Herringbone Laminate Over Hardwood Floors
Are you debating between installing herringbone laminate flooring or hardwood flooring? The laminate floor material is known for its affordability and its easy installation process. Because of the general complexity of installing the herringbone pattern and the increased difficulty of installing hardwood flooring, the combination of this material and this pattern can create a very expensive installation project. In addition, many people who love the hardwood look and who need a functional floor material that is practical for an environment with kids and pets are drawn to laminate flooring.
Installing Herringbone Laminate Flooring as a Do-It-Yourself Project
If you want to save money on installation costs and if you have a knack for do-it-yourself projects, you can install herringbone laminate flooring on your own. After pulling together all of your materials and tools, you will need to prepare the subfloor by laying down the underlayment material. Before you begin laying the wood, you will need to find the center of the room. Use a chalk line to mark the central point in the space for reference throughout the installation process. Rather than precisely measuring a 90-degree angle with each plank that you lay, create a template that you can use repeatedly. This template can be made out of lumber or plywood. Then, install the laminate planks piece by piece using the template until the row that you are working on reaches the other end of the room. The next row is installed beside it with the planks running in the opposite direction.
Is Herringbone Flooring the Right Look for Your Home?
Herringbone laminate flooring can bring a dramatic, upscale touch to your space. The pattern has undeniable appeal, but it may not be suitable for use in smaller rooms or for use in rooms with other busy patterns or design elements. If you are still trying to decide if a herringbone pattern is a good idea for your space, consider researching images of finished projects online so that you can get a better feel for the impact that this pattern style could have in your rooms.
