Walls are not the only surfaces that can benefit from well laid patterns. Just like mortared bricks, stone, vinyl tiles and terracotta can be installed in decorative styles to give you floor uniqueness and improve aesthetics.
There are several styles contractors can achieve, ranging from straight grids to brick, cobblestone and wave patterns. Although there is no single best option for everyone, it is worth noting that all floor installation patterns come with their own pros and cons.
Here is a brief look at some of the popular styles including the main features, benefits and disadvantages.
Straight-Lay Grid
This is one of the most popular floor installation patterns of the 20th and 21st century although it is not
as favored today. Straight-lay grid is an ordinary pattern that features long straight joints.
It does not only look dull compared to modern styles, but also cracks more often because of the long exposed joints. It is advisable to use large tiles(12 by 12 inches)or larger to prevent the cracks from forming too
early.
Pros
- Very easy to Install
- Successful When Large Tiles Are Used
Cons
- More Susceptible to Cracking
- Cracks on The Seams Will Quickly Continue to Adjacent Tiles
- Visually Unappealing
Brick (Funning-Bond)
This is another common floor pattern you can install in your home or office. As the name suggests, running bond or brick pattern is installed following the same guidelines for brick walls. Each row of tiles
should have seams offset by half the tile’s width thus creating a running pattern.
While it seems relatively easy to install, running bond does require accuracy especially when it comes to joint spacing. A small miss off the mark will quickly get multiplied down the entire row and when this happens, there are specific ways to compensate the distance. Nevertheless, it can still be considered a DIY.
Pros
- The Easiest Patter to Install
- More Attractive
- Too Common and Lack Visual Appeal
Cons
- Requires Precision to Achieve Accurate Spacing
- Reducing Likelihood of Cracking
Herringbone
Also known as the V-shaped pattern, herringbone is among the more visually interesting floor installation patterns in the market. It is achieved by laying the tiles at alternating 45 degree angles to create a V-shaped pattern. This requires rectangular tiles and may be a little challenging for novices.
Herringbone floor pattern is mostly used for smaller rooms due to its complexity. However, it is solid enough to be functional for any floor requirement.
Pros
- Very Attractive in Small Spaces
- Offers More Stability
Cons
- Achieving Straight Patterns Can Be Difficult
- When Installed in Large Rooms as It Becomes More Complicated & Tedious
Chevron
Chevron flooring pattern is very similar to herringbone except for a small difference. In herringbone, the tiles are stacked over each other to create a “point” usually at 45 degrees. In chevron, two tiles are angled together to form a perfect joint.
This requires more cutting and usually costs a bit more than herringbone. However, it offers an unique pattern that can be installed over wide expanses.
Pros
- Unique and stylish
- Stable Uniform Pattern
Cons
- Installation is Fairly Difficult
- More Waste
Basket-Weave
Basket-weave is usually seen as the solution for large rooms. It involves laying tiles in pairs 90 degrees to one another. This is the same texture achieved when basket fibers are weaved at 90 degrees.
This pattern is very easy to arrange and also provides the broken grid effect. It also wastes fewer tiles compared to herringbone.
Pros
- Attractive
- Immediately Draws Attention
- Easy to Install
Cons
- Tends to Appear Chaotic if Maintained Over a Large Expanse
- Blends Well With Specific Interior Decorations
Cobblestone
Cobblestone is one of the few distinguishable options for those who want to break away from conventional grids and patterns. It features ten tiles of two different sizes arranged to make a lovely repeated pattern that is both complex and attractive.
Achieving the cobblestone tile pattern requires some patience and precision, but the final outcome is always worth it.
Pros
- Unique and Visually Appealing
- Ideal for Old, Vintage and Classic Styles
- Structural Stability
Cons
- Not Easy to Install
- Has a Large Repetition Area
Custom Floor Patterns
Custom floor installation patterns have been on the rise. Usually, contractors or homeowners come up with new ideas to spring renewed interest and break away from conventional patterns. These ideas are
then copied and adopted as they become trendy.
The field of custom floor patterns is quite fluid and there is no limit to what will be invented tomorrow. However, there are a few custom bundles that exist from one contractor to another. You can also offer your own ideas to help influence the pattern.
Pros
- Unique
- Fit Individual Needs
- Each area Can Be Targeted to Get The Best Solution
Cons
- Expensive
- Complex to Install
- Not Always Produce What is Envisioned
Summary
Just like they do walls, installation patterns can enliven the aesthetics of your indoor and outdoor floors. It is recommendable to go through all the available options and determine if they fit your situation. Not
all patterns are ideal for every project and some are definitely better suited for specific situations.
Whether tile, vinyl or terracotta, you can achieve magnificent patterns that immediately draw attention to your floors. Make sure you work with credible reputable contractors who can help you get the best value for your money.
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