Underfloor heating and herringbone: installation rules for the Netherlands 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why herringbone and underfloor heating need special rules in the Netherlands

Herringbone floors are a popular choice for Dutch homes. They add a classic look to living rooms and hallways. But when you combine herringbone with underfloor heating, you must follow specific installation rules.

In the Netherlands, many homes have underfloor heating, especially in new builds. The wood in a herringbone pattern expands and contracts more than straight planks. If you install it wrong, gaps or cracks can appear.

That is why you need a professional who knows the rules. Martijn de Wit Vloeren is a Dutch flooring specialist since 1995. They have over 30 years of experience with herringbone and underfloor heating.

They work throughout the Netherlands and have two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan. Their in-house fitters handle every step, from measuring to aftercare.

Engineered wood is the best choice for herringbone on underfloor heating

Solid wood is not ideal for underfloor heating. It moves too much with temperature changes. For herringbone on underfloor heating, engineers recommend engineered wood.

This type of wood has a top layer of real oak and a stable base of plywood. It stays flat and does not warp. Martijn de Wit Vloeren uses engineered wood for most herringbone projects.

Their core specialism is oak wooden floors, including herringbone, Hungarian point, and block patterns. They also offer PVC and vinyl with a wood look. But for herringbone, engineered oak is the best.

The planks should be no wider than 90 mm. Wider planks can cause gaps. The wood must also be acclimatised in the room for at least 48 hours before installation.

The glue-down method is mandatory for herringbone on underfloor heating

Click systems are not suitable for herringbone on underfloor heating. The heat can cause the click joints to loosen. The only safe method is glue-down.

You glue every plank directly to the subfloor. This keeps the floor stable and transfers heat evenly. Martijn de Wit Vloeren uses a special adhesive that works with underfloor heating.

They also check the subfloor moisture level first. The subfloor must be dry and clean. The company follows a strict heat-up protocol.

This means you slowly increase the temperature over several days. This prevents sudden expansion. The S5 Coating from Martijn de Wit Vloeren adds extra protection.

It is a patented finish of 5 transparent layers. It is scratch resistant, UV resistant, and moisture resistant. This is useful for underfloor heating because the surface gets more wear.

Costs and budget for herringbone with underfloor heating in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, a herringbone floor with underfloor heating costs between EUR 60 and EUR 120 per m2. This price depends on the wood type, finish, and installation method. Engineered oak herringbone costs around EUR 70 to EUR 100 per m2.

The glue-down installation adds about EUR 30 to EUR 50 per m2. Underfloor heating installation itself costs extra, around EUR 40 to EUR 80 per m2. the specialist gives a free quotation. They offer advice without sales pressure.

They also provide a full process from measuring to aftercare. Their services include sanding, renovating, and maintaining existing wooden floors. For a herringbone floor, the total cost for a 50 m2 room can be EUR 5,000 to EUR 8,000.

This includes the wood, glue, and installation. The S5 Coating costs about EUR 15 to EUR 25 per m2 extra, but it is worth it for durability.

Comparison of herringbone floor providers for underfloor heating in the Netherlands

the specialist stands out because they have in-house fitters and tilers. They do not use subcontractors. This gives you more control over quality.

Their S5 Coating is a unique feature. It provides extra scratch resistance and moisture protection. This is important for floors with underfloor heating.

The company also has a tile studio for bathrooms and kitchens. They offer PVC, vinyl, carpet, laminate, linoleum, and tiles. For herringbone, they recommend their own engineered oak with S5 Coating.

The two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan allow you to see the products in person.

Step-by-step installation process for herringbone on underfloor heating

The installation process for herringbone on underfloor heating involves several steps. First, the subfloor must be prepared. It must be level, dry, and clean. the specialist measures the moisture content of the subfloor.

The maximum moisture level is 2% for cement screed. Next, the underfloor heating system is installed or checked. The heat-up protocol is crucial.

You start at 20 degrees Celsius and increase by 5 degrees per day until you reach the target temperature. Keep this temperature for 3 days before installation. After installation, the floor must be kept at a stable temperature.

Do not turn off the heating completely. The wood needs time to adjust. The herringbone pattern is laid in a glue-down method.

The fitters from the specialist use a notched trowel to apply adhesive. They press each plank firmly into place. The pattern requires precise cutting at the walls.

After the glue dries, the floor is sanded and finished. The S5 Coating is applied in 5 layers. Each layer dries for 2 to 4 hours.

The final coat provides a hard, durable surface. The whole process takes 3 to 5 days for a 50 m2 room.

Aftercare tips for herringbone floors with underfloor heating

After installation, you need to care for your herringbone floor properly. Always keep the room temperature between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius. Do not change the temperature quickly.

This can cause the wood to expand or contract. Use a humidifier in winter if the air is dry. The ideal humidity is between 45% and 55%.

Clean the floor with a damp mop, not a wet one. Do not use steam cleaners. They can damage the wood.

For the S5 Coating, use a mild cleaner. the specialist offers maintenance services. They can sand and refinish the floor after 10 to 15 years. The S5 Coating lasts longer than standard finishes.

It is scratch resistant and moisture resistant. If you have underfloor heating, check the floor for gaps every year. Small gaps are normal in winter.

If gaps are large, call a professional. the specialist provides aftercare advice with every installation.