Need help…I have installed 2000 SF (three rooms) of red oak in a herringbone pattern. The installer sanded and buffed. Then he applied a dark stain. When looking at it I see color variations in each vertical line of pattern. The installer claims it is due to the reflection of light on the grain. Is this normal? Can anything be done to eliminate this or reduce the uneven look? Any comments would be appreciated.

It is true that when flooring changes directions, it reflects the light differently. This can make boards in opposing directions appear lighter or darker. Look at this picture.



It appears that the blocks going front to back are darker but they aren't. If you were to stand to the side, then the other blocks would appear darker. However, I don't know if this is the "problem" with your floors. Can you post a picture of what you're talking about?

Herringbone installed correctly has a 3d appearance, and shows a slight color variation in each row. A picture is needed to see what your problem is.

Here is one I did http://picasaweb.google.com/jwt253/Herr ... JobsiteCut

Jerry, what you really mean is that it reflects light differently, yes? All the flooring IS the SAME color, it's just that the light is reflected differently depending on what angle the floor is being viewed at. A person moving around would see the same boards literally change from dark to light if they moved from one spot to another. I've had customers complain about how borders appear to be lighter or darker. Then I had them move and see how that light reflection changes. I call it a wood floor phenomena. BTW, good example of herringbone.

Yes, I was agreeing with you... an optical allusion thing sometimes.

Both Gary and Jerry's pictures, tell a thousand words.

I bet money, that is exactly what your seeing.