How to Lay a Herringbone Tile Floor

Laying a herringbone tile floor requires careful planning, starting with a center reference line, then installing tiles at 45-degree angles in an interlocking zigzag pattern that creates the distinctive chevron look.

1. Get the Foundation Flawless. Clean the subfloor thoroughly and check for level using a 4-foot level. Sand down any high spots and fill low areas with floor leveling compound. The surface must be completely flat, clean, and dry. Install cement backer board over plywood subfloors for the best tile adhesion.
2. Center Everything First. Measure the room and mark the center point of both length and width. Snap chalk lines to create perpendicular center lines. This intersection becomes your reference point. Dry-lay several rows of tiles along these lines to ensure your pattern will end with reasonably sized edge tiles.
3. Mix the Right Consistency. Mix tile adhesive according to manufacturer directions, preparing only what you can use in 20-30 minutes. The consistency should be smooth and spreadable without being too wet. Use a drill with a mixing paddle for best results.
4. Establish Your Pattern Core. Apply adhesive to a 2x2 foot area around your center point using the smooth side of your trowel, then comb through with the notched side. Place the first tile at a 45-degree angle to your center lines. The second tile goes perpendicular to the first, forming an L-shape. Continue with the third and fourth tiles to complete your first herringbone unit.
5. Expand the Zigzag Outward. Work outward from your center unit, maintaining consistent spacing with tile spacers. Each new tile should form the herringbone pattern by alternating the 90-degree angle relationship. Keep your reference lines visible and check alignment frequently. Work in manageable sections to prevent adhesive from skinning over.
6. Trim the Perimeter Perfect. Measure and mark tiles that need cutting at room perimeters. Use a wet tile saw for clean, precise cuts. For the herringbone pattern, you'll need triangular cuts along straight walls and more complex shapes at corners. Test-fit each piece before applying adhesive.
7. Keep It Flat and Clean. Remove excess adhesive from tile faces and joints immediately using a damp sponge. Use a rubber mallet and beating block to level any tiles that sit proud. Check your work with a straight edge frequently to maintain a flat surface.
8. Seal the Pattern with Grout. Wait 24 hours for adhesive to cure, then mix and apply grout using a diagonal sweeping motion with a rubber float. Work grout completely into all joints, then clean excess from tile faces with a barely damp sponge. Allow grout to cure according to manufacturer specifications before walking on the floor.