What changes.
Cut: herringbone uses rectangular boards (no angle cut at the factory; the pattern comes from the lay). Chevron uses pre-mitered boards (angle cut at one or both ends). Chevron boards cost more because of the mitering.
Visual rhythm: herringbone has a stepped, interlocking pattern that reads more traditional. Chevron has a continuous V pattern that reads more refined and modern. Both are formal; chevron is the more elevated read.
Install: herringbone is the easier install of the two (any installer can do it). Chevron requires precision because misaligned miters break the pattern. Install labor on chevron runs 50 to 100 percent more than herringbone.
Material cost: chevron board cost runs 30 to 60 percent above herringbone at the same species and width. Combined with the install premium, total chevron cost is roughly 1.5 to 2 times herringbone.
Common questions.
- Which is more expensive, herringbone or chevron?
- Chevron, by a significant margin. The pre-mitered boards cost more and the precision install adds labor. Total cost runs 1.5 to 2 times herringbone at the same species and width.
- Which pattern is more traditional?
- Herringbone is the more historic pattern (traces back to Roman tile and Victorian parquet). Chevron is the more refined French Versailles parquet variant. Both are traditional; chevron reads more formal.
- Can I do herringbone or chevron with engineered flooring?
- Yes. Both patterns are available in engineered hardwood with pre-cut boards. Some manufacturers ship herringbone kits in connected sections that install as planks. Chevron requires more precise plank-by-plank installation.
Project in motion
Specifying a parquet pattern?
We source herringbone and chevron flooring in solid and engineered construction.