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Compare width and length together
When a herringbone listing gives a width, it refers to one rectangular block. Read the length alongside it. Two blocks can have similar proportions yet make very different sized patterns once laid. The examples below all have a length five times their width, so they are useful for comparing scale.
| ECE Flooring example | Block width × length |
|---|---|
| Stanford Smoked UV Oiled (H2019) | 70 × 350mm |
| Contract Herringbone Oak Invisible Matt Lacquered (BFCH111) | 90 × 450mm |
| Eastbury Smoked UV Oiled (H1019) | 120 × 600mm |
The table shows dimensions for each block. See the individual listings for their finish, thickness and pack coverage. Look through the herringbone range for other formats.
Judge the pattern in the area you will see
Smaller blocks produce more repeats across the same stretch of floor. Larger blocks show a broader zigzag and more of each individual piece of oak. Either can work in a compact room. Look at the exposed floor between furniture, along the route through the room and beside any rug you plan to keep.
Use paper rectangles cut to each listed size to mock up a few joined blocks on the floor. Stand in the doorway and turn the layout to see how the direction changes the view. This gives you a sense of scale before asking your fitter to mark out the full room.
Check the sightline and cuts with your fitter
Pick the point from which you are most likely to see the pattern, such as the entrance, the view down a hall or the approach to a fireplace. Show your fitter where you want the pattern to lead. Ask how the proposed layout meets the walls and transitions into the next room.
The fitter can check whether shifting the starting line would avoid narrow cuts around an obvious doorway or feature. Discuss any border at this stage, as it changes the area inside the pattern and adds cuts of its own. Read the herringbone buying guide for more on fitting and planning.
Use samples for colour and texture
Compare the actual surface beside your walls, furniture and adjacent flooring in daylight and evening light. A hand sample helps you judge colour and texture. Use the product dimensions and room photos to assess the full pattern, and check the whole-board option if you want to see the full block in your hand.
For instance, Stanford and Eastbury are both described as smoked and UV oiled. Compare samples of both if you are considering a change in block size and want to see how the finishes look side by side. See the free hand sample and whole-board sample guide.
Confirm your quantity after choosing a layout
Get the exact pack coverage from the product page. Ask your fitter to check the cutting allowance for the chosen layout, including thresholds, alcoves and any border. Use the flooring quantity guide to work from measured area to whole packs.
Once you have a shortlist, compare the product specifications and current prices. If you need help checking dimensions, email ECE Flooring with the product codes at sales@eceflooring.co.uk.