The Disadvantages To Installing Herringbone Wood Floors You Haven't Considered

Are you obsessed with the classic herringbone look? It's one of many gorgeous hardwood floor patterns to consider for your home. You have a lot of flexibility in creating a herringbone floor, from the wood type you use to the size of the planks. Achieving the timeless look takes a lot of work, though. One of the biggest drawbacks is the difficulty of installing the flooring, which impacts the price.

Installing a herringbone wood floor is more challenging than installing the boards in a straight pattern due to the attention to detail it requires. You need to measure each piece with extreme accuracy so that everything will fit together properly. If even one piece isn't the correct length or is positioned incorrectly, it throws off the angles and messes up the pattern. Not only do you need to master the pattern, but you also have to maintain it across the entire room, which can slow the process. When you reach the edges, creating a smooth transition to other flooring requires even more precision cuts.

Wondering if it's better to DIY or hire a pro to install hardwood flooring? For intricate patterns like herringbone layouts, hiring a flooring installer could save you lots of time and stress. However, it adds to the project cost. You can expect the installation complexity of herringbone floors to increase your overall spend by about 30%, with labor alone costing around $12 per square foot. 

Should you splurge on a herringbone floor? Start by evaluating your DIY skills (and patience) honestly. Installing the wood floors yourself saves you a significant amount of money on the project, but it also costs you a lot of time. It could also potentially leave you frustrated if you're not used to working with such strict requirements. Make sure you have the tools to measure and cut the wood precisely and feel confident in creating perfectly crisp lines before you decide to DIY a herringbone floor.

Next, consider how much you're prepared to spend if you plan to have the floors installed by a pro. If you're looking for budget-friendly ways to give your floors an upgrade, professionally installed herringbone floors likely won't make the cut. The cost of your herringbone floor project depends first on the type of wood you choose. Higher-end options like teak could cost up to $20 per square foot just for the materials, according to Homeguide. You can also achieve the herringbone look with flooring made of vinyl, PVC, or laminate. If you want the look at a lower price point, get quotes for other materials. Then, start shopping around for flooring installers, focusing specifically on professionals who have experience installing herringbone floors. Ask about warranties on the installation to protect your investment. Getting quotes in your area gives you a better idea of whether or not this flooring option fits into your budget.