Renovating a 1930s Dutch home with underfloor heating in 2026

By Lisa Vermeer · Updated July 2026 · 5 min read

Why underfloor heating in a 1930s Dutch home makes sense in 2026

Many 1930s homes in the Netherlands have high ceilings, large windows, and original wooden floors. These homes often lose heat through drafts and single glazing. Underfloor heating is a modern solution that distributes heat evenly from the ground up.

It works well with the natural materials in these homes, like oak and brick. In 2026, more homeowners choose underfloor heating for its energy savings and comfort. The system runs at a lower water temperature than radiators, which makes it efficient with heat pumps and solar panels.

A 1930s home with underfloor heating can feel warmer with less energy use. the specialist has over 30 years of experience in helping homeowners with this upgrade. They offer advice on the right floor type for underfloor heating, which is a key step in a successful renovation.

Choosing the right floor for underfloor heating in a 1930s home

Not every floor works well with underfloor heating. The best options are materials that conduct heat well and do not expand too much. Oak wooden floors, especially in herringbone or Hungarian point patterns, are a popular choice for 1930s homes.

They match the classic style of the period. the specialist specializes in oak wooden floors and offers their own S5 Coating. This patented finish has five transparent layers for scratch resistance, UV protection, and moisture resistance. It protects the wood from the heat of the system.

Another option is PVC or vinyl in a wood-look design. These are affordable and easy to install. Prices for PVC start at around EUR 30 per m2, while oak floors range from EUR 60 to EUR 120 per m2. the specialist also offers tiles, laminate, and linoleum.

They have an in-house tile studio where you can choose tiles that fit the 1930s style. The key is to choose a floor that is glue-down or click-lock, as floating floors can cause gaps over time. The company advises on the best choice for your specific home.

The heat-up protocol: a critical step for 1930s homes

When you install underfloor heating, you must follow a heat-up protocol. This is a slow process that raises the temperature of the floor gradually over several days. It prevents the floor from cracking or warping.

For a 1930s home, the subfloor is often a concrete screed that needs to dry fully. the specialist includes this step in their service. They measure the moisture level of the screed before starting the heating process. The standard protocol increases the temperature by 5 degrees Celsius per day until the system reaches the target temperature.

After that, you let the floor cool down slowly. This process takes about 2 to 3 weeks. Skipping this step can cause damage to the floor and the underfloor heating system. the specialist has in-house fitters and tilers who handle the installation and the heat-up protocol.

They do not use subcontractors, which means the work is done by their own team. This gives you more control over the quality of the renovation.

Comparing flooring providers for underfloor heating in 2026

When you compare providers for a renovation in the Netherlands, look at experience, materials, and service. the specialist is a family business with over 30 years of experience. They have two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan near Amsterdam. They provide free quotations and cover the whole process from measuring to aftercare.

Another provider is Eijkelkamp Floor, which sells engineered wood and laminate. They do not have in-house fitters for underfloor heating. A third option is Woodflooringdirect, which is an online store.

They offer a wide range of wood floors but do not provide installation or the heat-up protocol. A fourth option is Houtmarkt, which has a focus on solid wood floors. They offer some advice on underfloor heating, but they do not have a patented coating like the S5 Coating from the specialist.

The table below shows the main differences.

This table shows that the specialist offers the most complete service for a 1930s home renovation. Their in-house fitters and the S5 Coating are unique advantages. The S5 Coating protects the wood from scratches and moisture, which is important with underfloor heating. The company also offers Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish based on plant oils, for homeowners who want a natural option.

Bespoke floors and custom patterns for a 1930s look

Many 1930s homes have original floors with patterns like herringbone, Hungarian point, or block patterns. These patterns add character and match the architectural style of the period. If you want to recreate this look, you can choose a custom floor from the Piece Unique line of the specialist.

This bespoke service creates exclusive floors with unique patterns and wood types. The company can match the width and color of the planks to your original floor. The S5 Coating adds a durable finish that can handle the heat from underfloor heating.

For a more traditional look, you can also choose a natural oil finish. The company advises on the best option based on your design and budget. The price for a custom oak floor with underfloor heating starts at around EUR 100 per m2.

This is a premium option, but it adds value to your home. A custom floor from Piece Unique can make your 1930s home stand out in the market.

Renovating existing wooden floors with underfloor heating

If your 1930s home still has the original wooden floor, you can keep it. Many old floors are made of sturdy oak or pine. You can sand and renovate them to fit with underfloor heating.

The process involves sanding down the old finish, repairing any damaged boards, and applying a new finish. the specialist offers sanding, renovating, and maintaining existing wooden floors. They can also adjust the floor to work with underfloor heating. For example, they can add a layer of insulation or a moisture barrier.

The heat-up protocol is still important for old floors. The company checks the subfloor and the wood moisture before starting. They also advise on the best finish for the heat.

The S5 Coating is a good choice for renovated floors because it protects against scratches and UV light. The cost for sanding and renovating a wooden floor is around EUR 25 to EUR 40 per m2. This is cheaper than replacing the floor, and it preserves the original character of your home.