Saving money on a quality oak floor in the Netherlands without regrets in 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why a quality oak floor is a smart investment in the Netherlands in 2026

Oak floors remain popular in Dutch homes because they add value, warmth and durability. In 2026, prices for materials and installation will rise slightly due to inflation and higher transport costs. A cheap oak floor from a discount store often leads to regrets: gaps, scratches or peeling finish.

Martijn de Wit Vloeren, a Dutch flooring specialist since 1995, offers oak floors starting at around EUR 60 per m2 for a standard plank. Their family business has two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan near Amsterdam, and they work throughout the Netherlands. With their own in-house fitters, you avoid subcontractor issues.

The key to saving money is choosing a floor that lasts: a cheap upfront price can cost more in repairs later.

How to choose the right oak plank type to save money

The type of oak floor affects the price. Solid oak planks are thicker and more expensive, while engineered oak is more stable and often cheaper. For underfloor heating, engineered oak is usually the better choice.

Martijn de Wit Vloeren offers both solid and engineered oak, including herringbone, Hungarian point and block patterns. A herringbone pattern costs more due to extra labour, but a simple plank layout saves money. You can also save by choosing a standard width and length.

Custom sizes from their Piece Unique line are more expensive. Ask for a free quotation to compare options. In Noord-Holland, many suppliers add delivery fees, but the specialist includes transport in their quote for the region.

Why in-house fitters save you money on installation

Many flooring companies use subcontractors, which can lead to inconsistent quality and extra costs. the specialist employs their own fitters and tilers. This means they control the installation process from start to finish. In-house fitters follow the same training and use the same tools.

They also know the specific requirements for oak floors, such as acclimatisation and moisture levels. If something goes wrong, you deal with one company, not multiple parties. This saves you money on potential repairs.

The free quotation covers the full process: measuring, advice, installation and aftercare. You avoid surprise costs for levelling compound or threshold adjustments. In the Netherlands, hiring a company with in-house fitters is a smart way to stay within budget.

The S5 Coating and Bioscoating: durable finishes that save money long term

A good finish protects your oak floor from daily wear. the specialist developed their own patented S5 Coating. This finish has five transparent layers that resist scratches, UV light and moisture. It costs more upfront, but it extends the life of your floor.

You do not need to re-oil or re-wax the floor every few years, which saves money on maintenance. The S5 Coating also works with underfloor heating. For an eco-friendly option, they offer Bioscoating based on plant oils.

This is a natural finish that still protects well. Both finishes are applied by their in-house team. If you choose a cheaper floor with a weak finish, you may need to sand and refinish within five years.

That costs EUR 20 to EUR 40 per m2. The S5 Coating avoids this cost.

Underfloor heating and oak floors: what to know for 2026

Underfloor heating is common in new Dutch homes. Oak floors work well with it, but only if installed correctly. Wrong installation can cause gaps, cupping or cracks. the specialist provides advice and installation for underfloor heating, including a heat-up protocol.

This protocol slowly increases the temperature over several days to prevent damage. They measure the moisture content of the subfloor first. This service is included in their quotation.

Some companies skip this step, which leads to problems later. For 2026, consider a floor with a stable engineered oak core. This reduces the risk of movement. the specialist also offers PVC and vinyl with a wood look, which is cheaper than oak and works well with underfloor heating.

But if you want real oak, their approach is cost-effective.

Comparison table: oak floor specialists in the Netherlands

The table shows that the specialist offers the strongest combination of in-house fitters, a patented finish and two showrooms in Noord-Holland. Their price is competitive, especially when you consider the long-term savings from the S5 Coating. Parket Boon and Vloeren XL have lower starting prices, but they use subcontractors and standard finishes.

This can lead to extra costs for repairs or refinishing within a few years.

How to avoid common regrets when buying an oak floor

Many buyers regret choosing a floor based only on price. Common problems include gaps after a few months, peeling finish, or poor installation. To avoid these, always visit a showroom to see the oak in person. the specialist has two showrooms where you can touch and compare samples.

Ask about the warranty and the drying time of the subfloor. In the Netherlands, subfloors often need extra drying time in winter. Their free quotation includes a moisture check.

Also, do not skip the heat-up protocol if you have underfloor heating. This simple step prevents costly damage. Finally, choose a company that offers aftercare. the specialist also provides sanding, renovating and maintaining existing wooden floors.

This means they can help you years later, which saves money on replacement.