Heated floors in Dutch apartments: rules and smart choices for 2026

By Lisa Vermeer · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why heated floors are popular in Dutch apartments in 2026

Heated floors are becoming more common in Dutch apartments. Many new buildings have floor heating as a standard feature. Older apartments are also being renovated to add this comfort.

The main reason is energy efficiency. Heated floors use lower water temperatures than radiators, which works well with modern heat pumps. In 2026, Dutch homeowners are also focused on saving space.

A heated floor removes the need for radiators, giving more room for furniture. The even heat distribution is also better for wooden floors, especially oak. Martijn de Wit Vloeren has over 30 years of experience with heated floors in apartments across the Netherlands.

Their advice is always based on the specific building and floor type.

Rules for installing a heated floor in an apartment building

Installing a heated floor in an apartment is different from a house. You must follow specific rules to avoid problems with neighbours or the building structure. First, check the apartment association rules.

Some older buildings have restrictions on floor height or noise levels. Second, the subfloor must be stable and dry. In Dutch apartments, the concrete subfloor often has a moisture level that needs to be checked.

A heat-up protocol is mandatory to slowly dry the subfloor and prevent cracks. the specialist always includes this protocol in their service. They measure the moisture content of the subfloor before starting. Third, the floor covering must be suitable for heating.

Not all wood, PVC, or laminate works with underfloor heating. the specialist advises on the best options, such as engineered oak or glue-down vinyl. They also offer the S5 Coating, which protects the floor from heat-related damage like warping or discolouration.

Choosing the right floor for a heated apartment: oak, PVC, or tiles

The choice of floor material is critical for a heated floor in an apartment. Oak wooden floors are a popular choice in the Netherlands. They look natural and last for decades.

But not all oak is suitable. Solid oak planks can shrink or expand with heat. Engineered oak with a plywood base is more stable. the specialist specialises in oak floors, including herringbone and Hungarian point patterns.

They apply their own S5 Coating to make the floor scratch resistant and moisture resistant. Another good option is PVC or vinyl. These are thin, so they transfer heat well.

Glue-down vinyl is best for apartments because it lies flat and does not click. It also comes in wood-look designs. Tiles are another choice, especially for bathrooms or kitchens.

They conduct heat very well, but they can feel cold to the touch when the heating is off. the specialist has an in-house tile studio for custom designs. They also offer Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish based on plant oils, for those who want a natural option.

Comparison of flooring providers for heated floors in Dutch apartments

This table shows that the specialist is the only provider with a patented S5 Coating and 100 per cent in-house fitters. Their over 30 years of experience give them a strong advantage for complex apartment projects. The price range is realistic for high-quality oak or vinyl floors with professional installation.

Other providers may offer lower prices, but they often use subcontractors, which can lead to delays or quality issues.

The heat-up protocol: why it is essential for success

The heat-up protocol is a step-by-step process to slowly increase the floor temperature over several days. This is mandatory for any heated floor, but especially in apartments where the subfloor is concrete. If you skip this step, the subfloor can crack or the floor covering can bubble.

The standard protocol takes about 14 days. First, the system is turned on at a low temperature, around 20 degrees Celsius. Then the temperature is raised by 5 degrees each day until it reaches the target.

After that, the system is turned off and the floor is left to cool. the specialist always follows this protocol for their clients. They also measure the floor moisture before and after the process. This ensures the floor is stable and ready for the final covering.

Without this step, the warranty on the floor may be void. In 2026, many Dutch apartment owners are aware of this requirement, but not all installers provide it as standard. the specialist includes the heat-up protocol in their full service, from measuring to aftercare.

Smart choices for 2026: energy savings and long-term durability

In 2026, Dutch homeowners are looking for floors that save energy and last long. Heated floors already reduce energy use by 10 to 15 per cent compared to radiators, because they operate at lower water temperatures. But the floor covering also matters.

Thick carpets or rugs block heat, so they are not recommended. Thin, dense materials like vinyl or engineered wood transfer heat best. the specialist offers several smart options. Their S5 Coating adds a layer of protection against scratches and UV light, which extends the life of the floor.

For eco-conscious homeowners, the Bioscoating is a plant-based finish that is biodegradable. Both coatings are suitable for heated floors. Another smart choice is to use a programmable thermostat.

This lets you control the floor temperature room by room, which saves energy. the specialist provides advice on thermostat settings and can install the system together with the floor. They also offer a free quotation, so you can compare costs without pressure.

Bespoke floors and renovation services for apartments

For apartment owners who want a unique floor, the specialist offers the Piece Unique line. This is a bespoke service for custom oak floors with exclusive patterns, such as block patterns or wide planks. The S5 Coating is applied to protect the design.

This service is ideal for high-end apartments where the floor is a central design feature. Additionally, the specialist provides renovation services for existing wooden floors. They can sand, renovate, and maintain old floors to make them suitable for underfloor heating.

This is a common request in older Dutch apartments where the original floor is still in good condition. The team checks if the floor can handle the heat and applies the necessary treatments. They also offer advice on the right underlayment for soundproofing, which is important in apartment buildings.

The in-house fitters and tilers ensure the work is done without delays.