Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) that can guide the use of the Herringbone Tiles Pattern

Herringbone tiles pattern is hardly as difficult to lay as to explain. In practical terms, any set of rectangular tiles or any material for that matter can be laid in the herringbone way. And applying it can just be as easy as any other home interior finishing pattern. However, let us sound a note of warning here that the process of laying these tiles may be relatively more time-consuming than the rest. But one thing is sure: the whole time you spent would be worth it in the end. 

So, if you can pay the price of patience and get the right hands with experience on the job, you can get it done. Besides, it can make an ordinary-looking surface suddenly pop out to become extra-ordinary. You may have decided to tile your wall, floor, kitchen backsplash, or a small part of the home; the Herringbone is well worth your time. Below are the top 5 questions we answer on herringbone tiles usage, and hopefully, they can guide you as well. 

Where is the best place to start a herringbone pattern?

The point of starting your herringbone pattern depends on several factors, such as the specific variant look you want to create. It also depends on the size of the room and your tiles. For example, suppose you’re going to create a symmetrical look, perhaps with the best aesthetic value. In that case, you have to begin from the center of the tiling area. 

The herringbone pattern begins to take shape from the inside out when you do. And looks the same on both ends of the wall of floor space. However, if you prefer not to cut the tiles at one end of the area at all, then that particular end is your starting point. 

But note that when you take this route, you may still eventually have to cut some tiles at the ending part to complete the herringbone pattern. You can enjoy the control from the starting side of the tiling space, whether wall or floor, to the far end when you round off. Learn more about installation of herringbone tiles on https://www.simplydesigning.net/herringbone-tile-floors-diy-tile/

Which direction should my Herringbone-pattern run?

When setting up your herringbone tiles, the angle you are setting should inform which way your tiles will appear to be going. For instance, the standard rule of thumb is that each rectangular tile is at an angle of 90-degrees to the tile beside it to form the herringbone pattern. This pattern can also look like an interwoven material or a set of arrows or triangles. 

Which grout is best to complete herringbone layout?

The factors that determine the choice of grout include your tiles’ color, their contrast to each other, and of course, your personal taste. While the most important one is your personal taste. To have a perfect outlook, you should also respect the different factors and principles. But there are two ways to choose the grout; you can either blend or create a contrast. 

As for a blend, you simply choose a grout color that matches your tiles’ exact color or predominant color. On the other hand, if you want to create a contrast, choose a grout color that is darker or lighter than the color of the herringbone tiles, and there you have it. A contrasting grout color that outlines your tile pattern is personally more preferable. 

Which tiles do I have to cut during the laying of the herringbone pattern?

Knowing which tiles to cut essentially depends on the stage of the laying process you are at. In fact, it is unprofessional to decide to cut tiles before the laying begins or ends, depending on your level of professionalism. Again, it depends on the area where you are laying the herringbone tiles. Our strong recommendation is that you begin to lay your tiles first from your starting point to the end before you can determine which tiles need to be cut or trimmed

Moreover, while laying for this stage, you may not apply the adhesive or glue yet since you are still trying them out roughly. However, you can do the actual laying, and when you get to the end, you can mark out which of the tiles requires trimming or cutting to complete the herringbone pattern. Ensure to mark out the cut lines first before applying the tile saw, and remember to only cut at an angle of 45-degrees. 

Can Herringbone tile-laying be any cheaper or more accessible?

A simple answer is, by all means! Please do at best if you would like to get a professional tiler to lay out the herringbone tiles. But if you cannot afford that, you can try out the DIY approach, which is relatively cheaper. If not of that works, why not use a different material other than the herringbone tiles, say mosaic or subway?  

How can I manage a limited number of herringbone tiles?

When you have just about what you need to complete a tiling project, there is a need for prudent use of what you have. One of the methods of managing the tiles you have is to not count on the extra 15% addition you made when stocking. The next point to focus on is the exact time to make the cut and the actual tile piece. Any mistake within these lines means a waste. 

Practically, the tile installer must determine the cuts and do it. But the wisest and most recommended timing is cutting at the end of the laying process, which clearly shows what is left. On the other hand, it can also allow you to see how the fragments can serve secondary purposes in your arrangement. You will also save extra cost if you control related project constraints such as time and cost. 

Conclusion

Now that we have exposed some of the most comprehensive ideas guides in laying herringbone patterns, you can be confident when you are following handling it. Meanwhile, your project does not have to be burdensome if you put every right thing in place. At the same time, feel free to ask questions about what else you still will like to know apart from our provided information. And we will be more than willing to guide you.