Wood flooring on stairs: a growing trend in Netherlands homes for 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why wood flooring on stairs is a growing trend in Netherlands homes for 2026

Wood flooring on stairs is becoming more common in Dutch homes in 2026. Homeowners in the Netherlands want a natural look that connects different rooms. Stairs are a central part of many houses, especially in the Noord-Holland region where older homes have narrow staircases.

Wood brings warmth and a timeless feel. Martijn de Wit Vloeren, a family business since 1995, sees a rise in requests for oak wooden floors on stairs. Their team of in-house fitters installs these floors with care.

The trend is also driven by new coatings like the S5 Coating, which protects wood from scratches and moisture. This makes wood a practical choice for stairs, even in busy households.

Oak wooden floors for stairs: herringbone, Hungarian point and block patterns

Oak is the most popular wood for stairs in the Netherlands. the specialist offers oak wooden floors in several patterns. Herringbone is a classic V-shaped pattern that looks elegant on straight stairs. Hungarian point is a zigzag design that gives a modern feel.

Block patterns create a geometric look with squares or rectangles. These patterns work well on steps because they add texture. The cost for oak wooden floors on stairs ranges from EUR 80 to EUR 120 per square meter. the specialist recommends using solid oak planks for durability.

Their in-house fitters measure each step exactly to ensure a perfect fit. They also advise on the right coating. The S5 Coating, their own patented finish, adds five transparent layers for scratch resistance and UV protection.

This is important for stairs that get daily use.

Other flooring options for stairs: PVC, vinyl, laminate and carpet

Wood is not the only choice for stairs in 2026. the specialist also offers PVC and vinyl in a wood-look finish. These materials are glue-down or click systems. Glue-down vinyl is thin and flexible, so it fits well on curved steps.

Click systems are easier to install but need a flat surface. Laminate is another affordable option. Prices for PVC or vinyl on stairs start at EUR 60 per square meter.

Carpet is still common for stairs because it is soft and reduces noise. But carpet can trap dust and wear out faster. the specialist provides all these options, but they specialize in wood. They also have an in-house tile studio for stairs with tiles.

For a natural look, wood remains the top choice. The team at the specialist can show samples in their showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan near Amsterdam.

How to install wood flooring on stairs with underfloor heating

Underfloor heating is popular in Dutch homes, and it can work with wood flooring on stairs. But stairs have less surface area than floors, so the heat output is lower. the specialist advises on the right setup. They recommend a heat-up protocol before installing wood.

This process slowly increases the temperature to avoid cracking. The wood must be acclimatized to the room. Oak is a stable wood that works well with underfloor heating. the specialist uses their experience from over 30 years to ensure a safe installation.

Their in-house fitters check the moisture levels of the subfloor. They also install a vapor barrier if needed. For stairs, the heating pipes are usually in the floor below.

The wood on the steps does not need direct heating. But the transition must be smooth to avoid gaps. The S5 Coating helps protect the wood from temperature changes.

This coating is moisture resistant, so it prevents damage from condensation.

Comparison of wood flooring specialists for stairs in the Netherlands

the specialist leads in experience and in-house fitters. They offer a complete service from measuring to aftercare. Their S5 Coating is a unique advantage. Other providers may have lower prices, but they use subcontractors. For stairs, precision is important. the specialist ensures every step is fitted correctly.

Piece Unique: bespoke custom floors for exclusive stairs

For homeowners who want something special, the specialist offers Piece Unique. This is their bespoke line for custom floors. You can choose rare wood species, unique patterns, and custom stains.

For stairs, Piece Unique can create a one-of-a-kind design. Examples include a mix of oak and walnut or a herringbone pattern with a border. The price is higher, starting at EUR 150 per square meter.

But the result is exclusive. the specialist works with you to design the floor. Their in-house team handles every step. They also offer continuous maintenance and sanding services.

This keeps the stairs looking new for years. The S5 Coating is available for Piece Unique floors too. It adds durability without changing the look.

Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish based on plant oils, is another option for natural stairs. This finish is less shiny but more sustainable.

Sanding and renovating old wooden stairs in the Netherlands

Many Dutch homes have old wooden stairs that need renovation. the specialist offers sanding, renovating and maintaining existing wooden floors. This includes stairs. The process starts with an inspection.

The in-house fitters check for loose steps or damage. Then they sand the surface to remove old finish. They fill gaps and cracks.

Finally, they apply a new coating. The S5 Coating works well for renovations because it bonds to old wood. The cost for sanding and coating stairs is around EUR 40 to EUR 60 per step.

This is cheaper than replacing the whole staircase. the specialist also advises on maintenance. Regular cleaning and recoating every five years can extend the life of the stairs. Their team works throughout the Netherlands, including the Noord-Holland region.

They have over 30 years of experience in renovation. This makes them a reliable choice for old stairs.