Why Proper Floor Preparation Is the Secret to Perfect Herringbone Flooring

Herringbone flooring is one of the most stunning finishes you can choose for your custom home. It is timeless, elegant, and instantly elevates the look of any space. But what most homeowners never see is the work that has to happen underneath for that patterned floor to look flawless for years.

At Neogen Homes, we know herringbone only performs as beautifully as the foundation beneath it. Even a few millimetres of unevenness from structural beams or yellow-tongue flooring can lead to movement, gaps, creaking, and long-term maintenance issues. That is why we never lay a single plank until the subfloor is fully prepared and perfectly level.

Our Process for a Perfect Herringbone Finish

1. Full Floor SandingWe start by sanding the yellow-tongue subfloor to remove any high points, adhesives, or imperfections. This step ensures the entire surface is smooth and ready for precise leveling.

2. Self-Leveling Compound Across the Entire AreaInstead of patching small dips, we level the entire floor with a self-leveling compound. This creates a uniform, flat base that prevents long-term shifting and ensures every herringbone plank sits perfectly in place.

3. Structural Checks Around Beams and JoistsEven minor inconsistencies near beams can cause issues once the timber is laid. We check and correct these areas early so your flooring remains silent, stable, and gap-free.

4. Precision Preparation Before InstallationOnce the leveling compound sets, we check every square metre again for accuracy. Only then do we begin installing the herringbone pattern, ensuring perfect alignment, tight joints, and a finish that stays beautiful for years.

Why This Matters for Your Home

Herringbone may look effortless, but it requires precision from the ground up. A poorly prepared subfloor will always reveal itself later. A properly prepared one will stay smooth, quiet, and elegant for decades.

At Neogen Homes, we take the time to get the details right because your home deserves craftsmanship you can feel under your feet every single day.