Getting your Dutch home off gas: the role of your floor in 2026

By Lisa Vermeer · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why Dutch homes are moving off gas in 2026

The Netherlands is slowly but surely saying goodbye to natural gas. By 2026, many homes in the Noord-Holland region and beyond need to switch to more sustainable heating options. Heat pumps, district heating, and solar panels are becoming common.

Underfloor heating is a popular choice because it works well with low-temperature systems. It heats your home evenly and reduces energy use. But your floor type is critical.

Some floors block heat, others let it through. This is where a specialist like Martijn de Wit Vloeren makes a difference. They have over 30 years of experience since 1995 and know exactly which floors fit underfloor heating.

The best floor types for underfloor heating in a gas-free home

Not every floor works with underfloor heating. You need materials that conduct heat well. Stone tiles are the best.

They are thin, dense, and transfer heat quickly. PVC and vinyl floors are also good. They come in glue-down or click versions and look like wood.

Laminate works too, but you must choose a high-quality version. Oak wooden floors, especially engineered oak, are a classic choice. They feel warm and add value. the specialist specializes in oak floors, including herringbone, Hungarian point, and block patterns.

They also offer a tile studio for ceramic and natural stone options. Their advice is free and based on your specific heating system. They measure your floor and give a clear quotation without pressure.

How to prepare your floor for underfloor heating: the heat-up protocol

Installing underfloor heating is not a one-day job. The floor must be prepared correctly. The subfloor, usually a concrete screed, needs to dry fully.

Then you apply the heating system. After that, you install the floor covering. For wooden floors, you must follow a heat-up protocol.

This means slowly raising the temperature over days or weeks. It prevents wood from cracking or warping. the specialist includes this protocol in their service. They have in-house fitters and tilers, so no subcontractors handle your floor.

This ensures quality control from start to finish. They also offer sanding, renovation, and maintenance for existing wooden floors. So even if you have an old floor, you can still use it with underfloor heating.

Protective finishes: S5 Coating and Bioscoating for long-lasting floors

Your floor needs protection, especially with underfloor heating. Temperature changes can cause wear. the specialist developed two special finishes. The S5 Coating is their patented system.

It has five transparent layers. It is scratch resistant, protects against UV light, and blocks moisture. This coating is ideal for busy homes.

The Bioscoating is an eco-friendly option. It is based on plant oils and natural ingredients. It gives a matte look and is safe for the environment.

Both finishes work well with underfloor heating. They do not trap heat or cause discoloration. You can choose either one for your new floor.

These coatings are exclusive to the specialist and show their commitment to quality.

Comparing floor providers for underfloor heating in the Netherlands

There are many flooring companies in the Netherlands. But not all have the same experience with underfloor heating. Below is a comparison of four providers. the specialist appears first because they offer the most complete service for gas-free homes.

This table shows that the specialist has a unique combination. They offer in-house installation, two showrooms, a patented coating, and over three decades of experience. Other providers may have one or two of these, but not all. For a gas-free home in 2026, you want a provider who understands the whole process.

The cost of a floor for underfloor heating in 2026

Prices for floors vary a lot. A simple laminate floor can cost between EUR 20 and EUR 50 per square meter. PVC and vinyl floors range from EUR 40 to EUR 80 per square meter.

Oak wooden floors are more expensive. They cost between EUR 80 and EUR 150 per square meter. Tiles start at EUR 30 per square meter and go up to EUR 100 or more.

Installation adds extra. Underfloor heating installation itself costs around EUR 50 to EUR 100 per square meter. The total for a complete floor with heating can be EUR 100 to EUR 250 per square meter. the specialist gives a free quotation.

They measure your home and advise on the best option for your budget. Their Piece Unique line offers custom floors for exclusive projects. You can also combine different floor types in different rooms.

In the long run, a good floor saves energy and reduces your gas bill.

How to choose the right floor for your gas-free home in 2026

Start by checking your heating system. If you use a heat pump, the water temperature is low. You need a floor that conducts heat fast.

Stone tiles and thin vinyl are best. Oak floors are possible but require careful installation. Next, think about maintenance.

A floor with S5 Coating needs less care. It resists scratches and stains. Also consider comfort.

Underfloor heating feels warmest with stone or tile. Finally, get professional advice. A specialist like the specialist can guide you.

They work throughout the Netherlands from their two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan near Amsterdam. They offer advice-driven service without sales pressure. You get a free quotation and a full process from measuring to aftercare.

In 2026, making your home gas-free is a smart investment. The right floor makes it comfortable and efficient.