How Do You Install Herringbone Flooring Step by Step?

AvatarByAlison Socha Flooring Materials

Installing herringbone flooring is a timeless way to add elegance and visual interest to any space. Known for its distinctive zigzag pattern, herringbone flooring transforms ordinary rooms into stunning showcases of craftsmanship and style. Whether you’re renovating a historic home or updating a modern interior, mastering the installation of herringbone flooring can elevate your design and increase the value of your property.

This flooring style, characterized by its interlocking rectangular pieces arranged in a V-shaped pattern, requires careful planning and precision. The process involves selecting the right materials, preparing the subfloor, and laying each piece with accuracy to achieve the perfect geometric alignment. While the pattern may seem complex at first glance, understanding the fundamental steps makes the project approachable for both seasoned DIYers and professional installers alike.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential considerations and techniques involved in installing herringbone flooring. From choosing the ideal wood species to tips on layout and adhesive application, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently undertake your own herringbone flooring installation and create a floor that’s as durable as it is beautiful.

Preparing the Subfloor for Herringbone Installation

Before installing herringbone flooring, it is essential to prepare the subfloor properly to ensure a stable and durable finish. Begin by inspecting the subfloor for any damage, moisture issues, or uneven areas. The subfloor must be clean, dry, and level to prevent future problems such as warping or gaps.

Remove any old flooring materials, adhesives, or debris. If the subfloor is concrete, test for moisture content using a moisture meter. Excess moisture can cause the wood to expand or contract, so address any moisture problems before proceeding. For wooden subfloors, check for squeaks or loose boards and secure them as needed.

Leveling compounds or sanding may be required to achieve a flat surface. The ideal tolerance for flatness is typically within 3/16 inch over a 10-foot span. Use a straightedge to identify any high or low spots and correct accordingly.

Acclimating and Planning the Herringbone Pattern

Acclimation of the flooring material is crucial to prevent expansion or contraction after installation. Lay the herringbone planks flat in the installation room for at least 48 to 72 hours. This allows the wood to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity.

Planning the layout is vital for a visually pleasing and balanced installation. Identify the room’s center point and establish a chalk line to serve as a guide. Since herringbone patterns are composed of rectangular planks placed at right angles, precise measurements and angles must be maintained.

Consider the following during planning:

  • Direction of natural light and focal points in the room
  • Location of doorways and room transitions
  • Starting point in the room (typically center or longest wall)

Mark reference lines perpendicular to each other to maintain alignment throughout the installation.

Applying Adhesive and Laying the First Rows

Choosing the right adhesive is essential for a successful herringbone flooring installation. Use a high-quality, urethane-based adhesive recommended for hardwood flooring. The adhesive should provide strong bonding and flexibility to accommodate natural wood movement.

Before applying adhesive, test a small area to ensure compatibility with the flooring material. Use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive evenly over a manageable section of the subfloor, typically 2 to 3 feet wide, to prevent it from drying out.

When laying the first rows:

  • Start at the intersection of your chalk lines to ensure the pattern is centered
  • Place the first plank at a 45-degree angle to the starting point
  • Press each plank firmly into the adhesive, ensuring full contact
  • Use spacers or tapping blocks to maintain tight joints without damaging the wood
  • Check alignment frequently with a carpenter’s square or laser level

Allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding.

Cutting and Fitting Edge Pieces

Due to the nature of herringbone patterns, you will need to make precise cuts for edge pieces and around obstacles. Use a miter saw or table saw to achieve clean, accurate cuts.

When measuring for cuts:

  • Measure the distance from the last full plank to the wall or obstacle
  • Account for an expansion gap, typically 1/4 inch, to allow for wood movement
  • Mark the plank accurately before cutting

Fit the cut pieces tightly against the wall or adjoining surfaces without forcing them into place. Maintain consistent expansion gaps around the perimeter, which will later be covered by baseboards or molding.

Finishing Touches and Maintenance

Once all planks are installed and adhesive cured, remove any spacers and clean the floor surface carefully. If the herringbone flooring is unfinished wood, sanding and sealing may be necessary to protect the surface.

Install baseboards or quarter-round molding to conceal expansion gaps and provide a polished look. Use finishing nails or adhesive to secure molding without damaging the flooring.

For ongoing maintenance, consider the following tips:

  • Regularly sweep or vacuum to remove dirt and grit
  • Use a damp mop with manufacturer-approved wood floor cleaner
  • Avoid excessive water or harsh chemicals
  • Place protective pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches
Step Recommended Tools Tips for Success
Subfloor Preparation Moisture meter, straightedge, leveling compound, sanding tools Ensure flatness and dryness for best adhesion and stability
Acclimation & Layout Planning Chalk line, tape measure, carpenter’s square Allow adequate acclimation time; plan layout carefully to center pattern
Adhesive Application & First Rows Notched trowel, rubber mallet, spacers Apply adhesive evenly; keep planks tightly aligned
Cutting Edge Pieces Miter saw, measuring tape, pencil Measure precisely; maintain expansion gaps
Finishing & Maintenance Sander (if needed), mop, vacuum, baseboards/molding Clean regularly; protect surface with sealant or finish

Preparing the Subfloor for Herringbone Flooring Installation

Proper preparation of the subfloor is crucial to ensure a successful and long-lasting herringbone flooring installation. The subfloor must be clean, level, dry, and structurally sound before proceeding with the layout and installation of the flooring.

Cleaning and Inspection

  • Remove all debris, dust, and old adhesives from the subfloor surface.
  • Inspect for any signs of damage such as cracks, loose sections, or rot. Repair or replace damaged areas as necessary.
  • Ensure that the subfloor is securely fastened to the joists to prevent movement or squeaking.

Leveling the Subfloor

A level surface is essential for the precise alignment required by herringbone patterns. Use a long level or laser level to check for uneven spots.

  • If deviations exceed 3/16 inch over 10 feet, apply a leveling compound to smooth out low areas.
  • High spots should be sanded down carefully to avoid damaging the subfloor.

Moisture Testing

Excessive moisture can cause warping, cupping, or adhesion failure in wood flooring. Use a moisture meter appropriate for the subfloor material:

  • For concrete subfloors, conduct a calcium chloride test or relative humidity test.
  • Wood subfloors should have a moisture content below 12% before installation.

Address any moisture issues prior to installation through vapor barriers or improved ventilation.

Acclimating the Flooring Material

Before installation, allow the herringbone flooring planks to acclimate in the room where they will be installed. This process typically takes 48 to 72 hours and helps minimize expansion or contraction after installation.

  • Stack the flooring flat and keep it away from direct sunlight and heating sources.
  • Maintain consistent room temperature and humidity levels during acclimation.

Planning and Layout of Herringbone Pattern

Accurate planning and layout are essential to achieve a visually balanced herringbone floor. This phase involves determining the starting point, orientation, and pattern alignment relative to the room.

Determining the Layout Direction

The direction of the herringbone pattern affects the room’s visual flow and perception of space:

  • Running the pattern parallel to the longest wall can elongate the room.
  • Diagonal layouts create a dynamic, expansive effect but may require more cutting and waste.

Finding the Centerline

Establish a central reference line to ensure symmetrical pattern placement:

  1. Measure the room’s width and length to find the midpoint of each wall.
  2. Snap chalk lines intersecting at the center of the room.
  3. Use this intersection as the starting point for the first herringbone plank.

Dry Layout

Perform a dry layout without adhesive to visualize the pattern and make adjustments:

  • Lay out several rows of planks from the centerline toward the walls.
  • Check for balanced cuts along all edges to avoid narrow slivers of wood.
  • Adjust the starting line slightly if needed to improve symmetry.

Marking Expansion Gaps

Leave a perimeter expansion gap of 1/4 to 1/2 inch around the room edges to accommodate wood movement.

Installing the Herringbone Flooring

Installation requires precision and patience to maintain the integrity of the herringbone pattern and ensure a secure fit.

Required Tools and Materials

Tool/Material Purpose
Trowel Applying adhesive evenly on the subfloor
Chalk Line Marking layout lines for pattern alignment
Rubber Mallet Securing planks without damaging edges
Measuring Tape and Square Ensuring precise cuts and alignment
Flooring Adhesive or Nails Securing flooring planks to subfloor
Saw (Miter or Table Saw) Cutting planks to size and angle

Applying Adhesive and Setting the First Planks

Spread the adhesive using the recommended trowel size for your flooring. Begin at the intersection of the chalk lines and place the first plank diagonally at a 45-degree angle.

  • Position the second plank perpendicular to the first to form the characteristic “V” shape of the herringbone.
  • Use spacers to maintain consistent expansion gaps.
  • Press planks firmly into the adhesive and tap gently with a rubber mallet to ensure a tight fit.

Continuing the Pattern

Professional Insights on How To Install Herringbone Flooring

Jessica Marlowe (Certified Flooring Installer, National Wood Flooring Association). “When installing herringbone flooring, precise measurement and layout planning are crucial to achieving a seamless pattern. Starting from the center of the room ensures symmetry, and using a high-quality adhesive designed for hardwood floors prevents future movement or gaps.”

David Chen (Architectural Designer, Chen & Partners Studio). “The key to a successful herringbone installation lies in subfloor preparation. Ensuring that the subfloor is perfectly level and clean will dramatically improve the adhesion and longevity of the flooring. Additionally, acclimating the wood planks to the room’s humidity before installation reduces the risk of warping.”

Maria Gonzalez (Interior Design Specialist, Luxe Interiors). “Choosing the right wood species and finish for herringbone flooring can elevate the entire space. Oak and walnut are popular choices due to their durability and grain patterns. It’s also important to maintain consistent plank size and thickness to preserve the integrity of the classic herringbone pattern.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tools are required to install herringbone flooring?
Essential tools include a tape measure, chalk line, flooring adhesive or nails, a saw for cutting planks, a rubber mallet, spacers, and a tapping block. A level and a carpenter’s square are also recommended for accuracy.

Can herringbone flooring be installed over existing floors?
Yes, herringbone flooring can be installed over existing floors if the surface is clean, dry, level, and structurally sound. It is important to remove any carpet or loose materials before installation.

Is it necessary to acclimate the wood before installation?
Acclimating the wood is crucial. The flooring should be stored in the installation environment for at least 48 to 72 hours to adjust to temperature and humidity, preventing future expansion or contraction issues.

What is the best adhesive to use for herringbone flooring?
A high-quality urethane or moisture-cured adhesive is recommended for hardwood herringbone flooring. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure proper bonding and durability.

How do I ensure the herringbone pattern stays aligned during installation?
Start by marking a precise centerline on the subfloor and use a chalk line to maintain straight rows. Regularly check alignment with a carpenter’s square and adjust as needed during installation.

Can herringbone flooring be installed in areas with radiant heating?
Yes, herringbone flooring can be installed over radiant heating systems. Use engineered wood designed for such applications and follow specific installation instructions to prevent damage from heat fluctuations.
Installing herringbone flooring requires careful planning, precise measurements, and attention to detail to achieve the classic, elegant pattern that defines this style. The process begins with selecting the appropriate materials and preparing the subfloor to ensure a smooth and level surface. Accurate layout marking is essential to maintain the pattern’s symmetry and alignment throughout the installation.

Proper adhesive application and precise placement of each individual plank are critical to securing the flooring and preventing gaps or misalignment. It is important to work methodically, allowing for expansion gaps and using spacers where necessary. Cutting the planks to fit the edges and corners neatly completes the installation, followed by sanding and finishing to enhance durability and appearance.

Key takeaways include the importance of thorough preparation, patience during the installation process, and the use of quality materials and tools. By adhering to these principles, installers can achieve a stunning herringbone floor that adds timeless beauty and value to any space. Professional installation is recommended for those unfamiliar with complex flooring patterns to ensure optimal results.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.