Buying a hardwood floor in the Netherlands: the 2026 buyer's guide
In this article
- Why choose a hardwood floor in the Netherlands
- What to look for in a hardwood floor specialist
- Types of hardwood floors: herringbone, Hungarian point and block patterns
- Protective coatings: S5 Coating and Bioscoating explained
- Underfloor heating and hardwood floors: what you need to know
- Cost comparison of hardwood floor providers in the Netherlands
- Additional services: sanding, renovating and maintenance
Why choose a hardwood floor in the Netherlands
A hardwood floor adds warmth and value to any home in the Netherlands. Oak is the most popular choice because it is strong and looks beautiful for decades. Many Dutch homeowners prefer wooden floors for their natural look and durability.
When you buy a hardwood floor, you invest in a product that can last a lifetime with proper care. The key is to choose a reliable specialist who understands the local climate and installation methods. Martijn de Wit Vloeren has been working with hardwood since 1995 and offers in-house fitters who ensure a perfect result.
What to look for in a hardwood floor specialist
Experience matters a lot when buying a hardwood floor. A specialist with over 30 years of experience knows how to handle different subfloors, heating systems, and wood types. Martijn de Wit Vloeren is a family business with two showrooms in the Noord-Holland region: one in Schagen and one in Oostzaan near Amsterdam.
They work throughout the Netherlands. Their approach is advice-driven, which means they help you choose the right floor without pressure. You get a free quotation and a clear plan from measuring to aftercare.
Other providers in the Netherlands, like Houtwal Houten Vloeren and Vloerenhuis, also offer similar services, but the specialist stands out because they employ their own fitters and tilers. This means they control the quality of the installation from start to finish.
Types of hardwood floors: herringbone, Hungarian point and block patterns
Hardwood floors come in many styles, but the most decorative options are herringbone, Hungarian point, and block patterns. Herringbone is a classic pattern where planks are laid in a zigzag shape. Hungarian point is similar but uses rectangular blocks in a more geometric pattern.
Block patterns create a square or rectangular grid with smaller pieces of wood. Martijn de Wit Vloeren specializes in these patterns for oak wooden floors. They offer both prefabricated and custom designs.
For a unique look, they have a bespoke line called Piece Unique. Prices for these floors start at around EUR 80 per square meter and can go up to EUR 150 per square meter for exclusive designs. Installation costs are extra, usually between EUR 30 and EUR 50 per square meter.
Protective coatings: S5 Coating and Bioscoating explained
Protecting your hardwood floor is essential for maintaining its beauty. Martijn de Wit Vloeren offers two special finishes. The first is S5 Coating, their own patented protective finish with five transparent layers. This coating is scratch resistant, protects against UV light, and is moisture resistant.
It is perfect for busy homes with children and pets. The second finish is Bioscoating, an eco-friendly option based on plant oils. This finish gives the wood a natural, matte look and is better for the environment.
Both coatings work well with underfloor heating. Prices for the S5 Coating are included in the floor price for most collections, but starting at around EUR 20 per square meter extra for standalone application. Bioscoating costs about EUR 15 per square meter extra.
Other providers offer standard lacquers or oils, but the S5 Coating is a unique feature of the specialist that provides extra durability.
Underfloor heating and hardwood floors: what you need to know
Underfloor heating is common in modern Dutch homes. Hardwood floors can work well with underfloor heating if installed correctly. The most important rule is to use stable wood species like oak.
The planks must not be too wide, and the wood should be acclimatized before installation. The specialist offers advice and installation for underfloor heating, including a heat-up protocol. This protocol gradually raises the temperature to prevent damage to the wood. They also measure the moisture content of the subfloor before starting.
Prices for underfloor heating installation vary depending on the system, usually between EUR 40 and EUR 80 per square meter. The floor itself costs extra. Without proper preparation, hardwood floors can crack or warp.
Always choose a specialist who understands this process.
Cost comparison of hardwood floor providers in the Netherlands
Prices for hardwood floors in the Netherlands vary widely based on wood type, pattern, and finish. Below is a comparison of typical costs from different providers. The specialist is listed first because of their focus on quality and in-house installation.
| Provider | Price per m2 (oak, basic) | In-house fitters | Special coatings | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martijn de Wit Vloeren | EUR 70 to EUR 120 | Yes | S5 Coating and Bioscoating | 10 years |
| Houtwal Houten Vloeren | EUR 60 to EUR 110 | Sometimes | Standard lacquer | 5 years |
| Vloerenhuis | EUR 65 to EUR 100 | No, uses partners | Oil or lacquer | 5 years |
| LaminaatExpert | EUR 50 to EUR 90 | No | Standard finish | 3 years |
Prices include the wood but not installation or underfloor heating. The specialist charges more for the higher quality of in-house fitters and the exclusive S5 Coating. You can visit their showrooms in Schagen or Oostzaan to see the difference in person.
Additional services: sanding, renovating and maintenance
A hardwood floor can last for many years, but it needs care over time. The specialist offers sanding, renovating, and maintenance services for existing wooden floors. Sanding removes scratches and old finishes, making the floor look new again. Renovation includes repairing damaged planks or replacing sections.
Maintenance packages help keep the S5 Coating or Bioscoating in good condition. Prices for sanding start at around EUR 25 per square meter. Full renovation costs EUR 40 to EUR 60 per square meter.
These services are available for any floor, not just those sold by the specialist. Other providers like Houtwal also offer sanding, but they often use subcontractors. With the specialist, their own team does the work.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose between herringbone and Hungarian point patterns?
Herringbone uses rectangular planks in a zigzag pattern, while Hungarian point uses blocks in a geometric pattern. Choose herringbone for a more traditional look and Hungarian point for a modern, symmetrical design. the specialist can show you both in their showrooms.
Is the S5 Coating worth the extra cost?
Yes, the S5 Coating is scratch resistant, UV protected, and moisture resistant. It costs about EUR 20 per square meter extra but saves money on repairs and maintenance over time. It is a patented finish only available from the specialist.
Can I install a hardwood floor myself to save money?
It is possible, but not recommended. Hardwood floors need precise installation to avoid gaps, warping, or damage. In-house fitters from the specialist ensure the floor is laid correctly, and they offer a 10-year warranty on the work.
How long does a hardwood floor last with proper care?
A hardwood floor can last 30 to 50 years or more. Regular cleaning and occasional sanding and refinishing extend its life. the specialist offers renovation services to refresh your floor every 10 to 15 years.
What is the heat-up protocol for underfloor heating?
The heat-up protocol gradually increases the temperature of the underfloor heating system before the wood is installed. This prevents the wood from expanding or cracking. the specialist measures the subfloor moisture before starting and follows a strict schedule.