Illustrative — colours approximate
Straight / brick (⅓ offset)
Planks run the length of the room and each row starts a third of a plank along from the last, so end joints never line up.
- Typical wastage
- 5–7% (indicative; the calculator uses 7%)
- Suitable plank formats
- Plank, Wide plank, Tile
- Difficulty
- Easy — any competent installer
- Installation cost
- The standard labour rate for the floor type. Offcuts from one row usually start the next.
Use this pattern in the calculator See floors in this pattern
All patterns at a glance
| Pattern | Wastage (indicative) | Plank formats | Difficulty | Calculator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Straight / brick (⅓ offset)Planks run the length of the room and each row starts a third of a plank along from the last, so end joints never line up. | 5–7% | Plank, Wide plank, Tile | Easy — any competent installer | Calculate Straight / brick (⅓ offset) |
| Random staggerRows start at irregular points (at least 20 cm apart from the row before) for a natural, less regimented look. | 5–8% | Plank, Wide plank | Easy — any competent installer | Calculate Random stagger |
| HerringboneShort planks meet at 90° in a zig-zag. Needs left (A) and right (B) planks, ordered in equal numbers. | 15–20% | Herringbone (A/B) | Skilled — experienced pattern installer | Calculate Herringbone |
| Double herringboneHerringbone laid with two planks side by side in each step, giving a bolder, wider zig-zag. | 15–20% | Herringbone (A/B) | Skilled — experienced pattern installer | Calculate Double herringbone |
| ChevronPlanks with angled ends meet in a continuous V, like arrows pointing along the room. | 12–18% | Chevron | Skilled — experienced pattern installer | Calculate Chevron |
| Diagonal (45°)Straight-laid planks turned 45° to the walls. Makes narrow rooms feel wider, but every wall needs angled cuts. | 10–15% | Plank, Wide plank, Tile | Moderate — more cutting and setting-out | Calculate Diagonal (45°) |
| Basket weaveSquare blocks of short planks alternate direction like a woven basket — a parquet look for halls and studies. | 8–12% | Herringbone (A/B), Tile | Moderate — more cutting and setting-out | Calculate Basket weave |
Wastage is indicative
The percentages are typical cutting allowances for the pattern. Room shape, doorways, plank length and the installer all change the real figure, so we confirm quantities at the site measurement. Use the calculator link to see boxes for your rooms with the pattern already selected.