How a hardwood floor is installed step by step in the Netherlands in 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

Step 1: Measuring the subfloor and checking the moisture level

Before any hardwood floor can be installed, the subfloor must be measured and checked. In the Netherlands in 2026, this is the first step for any professional. the specialist starts with a free quotation that includes a visit to your home. They measure the room size, the flatness of the subfloor, and the moisture level.

A concrete subfloor must have a moisture content below 2 percent for glue-down installations. For wooden subfloors, the moisture content should be around 8 to 10 percent. If the subfloor is too damp, the wood can warp or swell later. the specialist uses a moisture meter to get accurate readings.

They also check for any bumps or hollow spots. If the subfloor is uneven, they will recommend a levelling compound. This step is crucial for a long-lasting floor.

The company has over 30 years of experience in this area.

Step 2: Preparing the subfloor and applying a moisture barrier

Once the subfloor is measured, the next step is preparation. The subfloor must be clean, dry, and smooth. Any dust, glue residue, or old flooring is removed.

For concrete subfloors, a moisture barrier is applied. This is a plastic sheet or a liquid membrane that stops moisture from rising up into the wood. In the Netherlands, where groundwater can be high, this is especially important. the specialist always applies a moisture barrier when needed.

They also install an underlayment for floated floors. This underlayment provides sound insulation and a slight cushion. For glue-down floors, the adhesive is chosen based on the subfloor type.

The company uses high-quality adhesives that are suitable for underfloor heating. If you have underfloor heating, they follow a specific heat-up protocol. This protocol slowly increases the temperature over several days to avoid damaging the floor. the specialist offers underfloor heating advice and installation as part of their service.

Step 3: Acclimatising the hardwood planks

Wood is a natural material that reacts to temperature and humidity. Before installation, the hardwood planks must sit in the room for at least 48 hours. This is called acclimatisation.

The planks adjust to the room's climate, which prevents them from shrinking or expanding after installation. In the Netherlands, rooms are typically kept at 18 to 22 degrees Celsius with a humidity of 40 to 60 percent. the specialist brings the planks to your home a few days early. They stack them with spacers so air can circulate around each plank.

For herringbone or Hungarian point patterns, the planks are checked for colour and grain consistency. The company's core specialism is oak wooden floors, including these patterns. They also offer their Piece Unique line for custom designs.

During acclimatisation, they measure the moisture content of the wood. It should match the moisture content of the subfloor. If the wood is too wet or too dry, they wait longer.

This step is simple but essential for a stable floor.

Step 4: Installing the hardwood floor (glue-down or floating method)

There are two main methods for installing a hardwood floor in the Netherlands in 2026: glue-down and floating. The glue-down method is used for solid wood and engineered wood on concrete subfloors. The fitters spread adhesive onto the subfloor with a trowel, then press each plank into the glue.

This method is very stable and works well with underfloor heating. the specialist uses in-house fitters for this job. They have no subcontractors, so the quality is consistent. The floating method is used for engineered wood or laminate.

The planks click together without glue. An underlayment is placed first, then the planks are locked into place. This method is faster and easier to remove later.

However, it is less stable than glue-down. The company installs both types. They also offer PVC and vinyl floors in wood-look designs, which can be glued or clicked.

For herringbone patterns, the planks are cut at 45-degree angles and fitted together. This requires precision and skill. the specialist has been doing this since 1995.

Step 5: Sanding, finishing, and applying the S5 Coating or Bioscoating

After the planks are installed, the floor needs to be sanded and finished. Sanding removes any small scratches and makes the surface smooth. For pre-finished floors, this step is skipped.

But for raw wood floors, sanding is essential. The fitters use a large drum sander for the main area and a hand sander for the edges. They start with coarse sandpaper and move to finer grits.

The final sanding uses 120 to 150 grit for a smooth finish. Then the finish is applied. the specialist offers two special options. The S5 Coating is their own patented finish.

It has five transparent layers that protect against scratches, UV light, and moisture. This coating is very durable and ideal for busy homes. The S5 Coating also resists yellowing over time.

The other option is Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish based on plant oils. It gives a natural matte look and is safe for children and pets. Both finishes are applied with a roller or brush in thin layers.

Each layer dries for a few hours before the next one is added. The company also offers sanding and renovating services for existing wooden floors.

Step 6: Installing skirting boards and final inspection

The final step is installing skirting boards and doing a thorough inspection. Skirting boards cover the gap between the floor and the wall. They also protect the wall from scuffs and dirt.

The fitters measure and cut the skirting boards to fit each wall. They use a mitre saw for corners. The boards are nailed or glued to the wall.

For a clean look, the nails are countersunk and filled with wood filler. Then the floor is cleaned and inspected. the specialist checks each plank for gaps, squeaks, or uneven spots. They also check the finish for any imperfections.

If everything is good, they explain the aftercare to you. This includes how to clean the floor, how to maintain the finish, and what to do if a plank gets damaged. They offer a full process from measuring to aftercare.

Their two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan are open for questions. You can also visit the showrooms to see the S5 Coating and Bioscoating in person. The company works throughout the Netherlands.

Comparison of hardwood floor installers in the Netherlands

The table shows that the specialist stands out with in-house fitters and a patented S5 Coating. They have two showrooms in the Noord-Holland region. Other providers may offer lower prices, but they often use subcontractors. For a reliable installation in the Netherlands, the specialist is a strong choice.