Tile Layout Patterns: Straight, Brick Bond and Herringbone
The pattern changes how a room feels and how many tiles you need. Straight lay is simplest, brick bond adds movement and herringbone is the most decorative.
Straight lay and brick bond
Straight lay lines tiles up in a grid and wastes least. Brick bond offsets each row, which suits rectangular wall tiles. Avoid a 50% offset on long, slightly bowed tiles; a one-third offset is safer.
Herringbone
Herringbone needs rectangular tiles and more cutting at the edges, so allow extra for waste. Use the calculator and add more than a straight layout needs.
Ordering
Tiles are sold by the box. Our basket rounds up to whole boxes, for example 2 m² becomes 2.16 m².
Common questions
- How much extra should I order for herringbone?
- Allow more than for a straight layout because of the extra cuts. The calculator guide explains waste in detail.
- Which tiles suit herringbone?
- Rectangular tiles, often wood-effect planks or narrow rectangles.
- Can I lay large tiles in brick bond?
- Yes, but use a one-third offset to avoid lippage on slightly bowed tiles.
Shop the tiles this applies to
More guides
- Tile Adhesive Guide: Choosing the Right Adhesive for Porcelain & Ceramic
- Tile Grout Guide: Colour, Joint Width and Which Grout to Use Where
- 900x900 Tiles: What to Buy Instead, and Why
- Next Day Tile Delivery in the UK
- How Many Tiles Do I Need? Coverage, Waste and Box Calculator Guide
- Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles: Which Is Better for Your Home?
- Bathroom Floor Tiles: Slip Ratings, Sizes and What to Choose
- Tiles for Underfloor Heating: Which Tiles and Adhesive to Use
- Outdoor and Patio Tiles: What to Look for in the UK
- How to Clean and Care for Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles
- Large Format Tiles: Sizes, Laying Tips and Where to Use Them