Oak versus walnut and other wood species for Dutch floors in 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

Oak versus walnut and other wood species for Dutch floors in 2026

Choosing the right wood species for your floor in the Netherlands in 2026 is a decision that affects the look, feel and lifespan of your home. Oak is the traditional favourite, but walnut, ash, beech and exotic species also have their fans. A comparison of oak with walnut and other wood species helps you make an informed choice.

Martijn de Wit Vloeren, a family business since 1995 with showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan, offers a wide range of oak floors and can advise on other species where suitable.

Why oak is still the top choice for Dutch floors in 2026

Oak wooden floors are the most common choice in Dutch homes, and for good reason. Oak is hard, stable and has a beautiful grain that works with both modern and classic interiors. It takes stains and finishes well, which means you can get light grey, white or dark brown oak floors without losing the wood character.

In 2026, the trend in the Netherlands is moving towards natural and matte finishes, and oak fits perfectly. Martijn de Wit Vloeren offers oak floors in many patterns, including herringbone, Hungarian point and block patterns. Their in-house fitters install every floor with care.

Oak is also very suitable for underfloor heating, a common feature in Dutch new-build homes. Prices for oak floors in the Netherlands typically range from EUR 60 to EUR 100 per square metre for standard planks, and from EUR 80 to EUR 120 per square metre for herringbone patterns.

Walnut floors: darker and more exclusive but softer

Walnut is a popular alternative to oak, especially for homeowners who want a darker, richer floor. Walnut has a warm chocolate brown colour with natural lighter streaks. It is less common than oak, which gives it an exclusive feel.

However, walnut is a softer wood. On the Janka hardness scale, walnut scores about 1010, while European oak scores around 1360. This means walnut dents and scratches more easily.

For busy family homes with children or pets, oak is often the better choice. Walnut also costs more, typically EUR 80 to EUR 130 per square metre. the specialist can source walnut floors for clients who prefer this species, but they always give honest advice about the lower scratch resistance. If you have underfloor heating, walnut still works, but the planks need to be narrow and stable.

The heat-up protocol from the specialist ensures the floor is installed correctly.

Ash, beech and exotic wood species for Dutch floors in 2026

Ash is a light coloured wood with a distinctive, bold grain. It is harder than oak (Janka 1320) and takes stains well. Ash is a good choice if you want a pale floor with a lot of texture.

Beech is also hard but can be unstable in humid rooms. In the Dutch climate, beech floors sometimes expand and contract more than oak, so they require careful installation. Exotic species like teak, merbau and ipe are very hard and moisture resistant, but they are expensive and often come from tropical forests.

Sustainability is a concern for many Dutch homeowners in 2026. the specialist focuses mainly on oak, but they also offer these alternatives when a client specifically requests them. They always explain the pros and cons for each species, including price, durability and maintenance. Their S5 Coating or Bioscoating can be applied to many wood types to improve scratch resistance and UV protection.

The role of finishes in protecting different wood species

The finish you choose matters just as much as the wood species. Oak, walnut, ash and beech all benefit from a good protective coating. the specialist developed their own S5 Coating, a patented finish with five transparent layers. It is scratch resistant, protects against UV light and resists moisture from cleaning and daily use.

For eco-conscious homeowners, the Bioscoating is a plant oil based finish that gives a natural look. On softer woods like walnut, a stronger finish like S5 Coating is highly recommended to prevent damage. On harder woods like oak, you still need a finish to stop staining and wear.

In 2026, matte finishes are the strongest trend in the Netherlands. Both S5 Coating and Bioscoating can be applied in a matte version. the specialist applies these finishes in their own workshop, ensuring consistent quality.

Herringbone and other patterns for oak and walnut floors

The pattern of your floor changes how the wood species looks. Herringbone is the most popular pattern for Dutch floors in 2026, especially in oak. It gives a classic and elegant feel.

Hungarian point is a variation with a sharper angle, often chosen for formal interiors. Block patterns, also called chevron, are another option. Walnut looks stunning in herringbone because the dark colour adds depth.

However, walnut herringbone costs more and is more fragile during installation. the specialist specialises in these patterns and their in-house fitters have years of experience with them. They also offer a bespoke line called Piece Unique for custom floors with unique dimensions or wood species. If you want a pattern in oak, they can create it in their own showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan.

For walnut patterns, they will source the material and advise on the best installation method.

Comparison of wood species for Dutch floors in 2026

How to decide between oak and walnut for your home in 2026

Start by thinking about how you use your home. If you have children, pets or a busy household, oak is the stronger and more scratch resistant choice. If you want a dark floor without staining oak, walnut gives a natural dark colour that cannot be achieved with stains.

Walnut is also warmer and more luxurious in appearance. Budget matters too. Oak is generally cheaper and easier to find.

If you choose walnut, expect to pay 20 to 30 percent more. Underfloor heating works with both, but oak is more forgiving. the specialist always starts with a free quotation and an advice driven conversation. They do not use sales pressure.

They measure your room, check the subfloor and discuss your lifestyle. This is especially important in the Dutch climate where humidity changes can affect wood floors. Their in-house fitters and tilers handle the whole process, from old floor removal to final aftercare.

Why in-house installation matters for wood species like oak and walnut

Many floor sellers work with subcontractors. the specialist uses only their own fitters and tilers. This is important when installing oak, walnut or any solid wood floor. Different wood species react differently to moisture and temperature.

In-house fitters know exactly how to handle expansion gaps, glue types and the heat-up protocol for underfloor heating. They also apply finishes like S5 Coating correctly. If something goes wrong, you have one point of contact. the specialist also offers sanding, renovating and maintaining existing wooden floors.

This means they can restore an old oak floor or refresh a walnut floor that has scratches. In 2026, many Dutch homeowners are renovating older floors rather than replacing them. the specialist supports this sustainable approach.