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Herringbone vs. Chevron: What's the Difference?

April 27, 2016

Many people don’t know the difference between a Chevron and Herringbone pattern and often will use the word “Chevron” to describe them both.

But, don’t be fooled, they are not the same! The key is in the zig-zag joint.

Here is a bathroom from Oxa Architecture with gray tile in a chevron pattern.

Chevron-for-web-600.jpg

As you can see, the pieces are lined up with the ends touching which form a miter joint.

With the herringbone, the ends are butted.

/Bathroom-floor600.jpgherringbone vs chevron

Here is an illustration from Remodelista that shows the difference really well.

herringbone vs chevronChevronHerringbone-for-web.jpg

Now you can speak about this with authority. Or at least go around correcting architects who get it wrong.

—Erika Taylor is editor of Professional Remodeler magazine.

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