Floating versus glued installation on heated floors: Dutch advice for 2026

By Lisa Vermeer · Updated July 2026 · 8 min read

Floating versus glued installation on heated floors: Dutch advice for 2026

Homeowners in the Netherlands who want a heated floor often ask one question: should I choose floating or glued installation? The answer affects the comfort, durability and heat output of your floor. In 2026, Dutch specialists expect that glue-down methods remain the top choice for solid wood and engineered floors, while floating systems are suitable for certain synthetic materials.

It explains the differences and gives practical advice for the Dutch market.

Martijn de Wit Vloeren, a family business with over 30 years of experience, works with both methods. They have two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan near Amsterdam. Their in-house fitters and tilers carry out all installations. No subcontractors are used. This means the team takes full responsibility for the result, from measuring to aftercare.

How floating floors work on underfloor heating

A floating floor is not attached to the subfloor. The planks or tiles click together or are laid loosely. A thin foam or cork underlay sits between the floor and the concrete slab. This method is popular for PVC, laminate and click vinyl. It is also used for some engineered wood floors.

On a heated floor, a floating installation has advantages. It is faster to install. It allows the floor to expand and contract naturally with temperature changes. This reduces the risk of buckling. Many DIY enthusiasts prefer floating because they can install it themselves.

However, there are downsides. The underlay acts as an insulator. It can reduce heat transfer by 10 to 20 percent compared to glued floors. The gap between the floor and the subfloor also makes the floor feel less solid. Over time, some floating floors develop small gaps between planks, especially in dry winter months when the heating runs often.

the specialist offers floating PVC and vinyl floors in both glue-down and click versions. For a floating installation, they advise using a thin underlay that is approved for underfloor heating. The company measures the subfloor moisture first and follows a strict heat-up protocol before laying the floor.

How glued floors work on underfloor heating

Glued installation means the floor is bonded directly to the subfloor with a special adhesive. This method is standard for solid oak, herringbone patterns, Hungarian point floors and block patterns. It is also used for glue-down vinyl and tiles.

The biggest benefit of a glued floor on underfloor heating is heat transfer. The adhesive has no air gaps, so heat passes directly from the concrete slab to the floor surface. This can increase heat output by 15 to 25 percent compared to a floating floor. The floor also feels firm and stable underfoot.

Another advantage is dimensional stability. Glue-down prevents the planks from moving too much. This is crucial for oak wooden floors, which can shrink or expand. the specialist applies their own patented S5 Coating to protect the wood. This finish has five transparent layers that resist scratches, UV light and moisture. It helps the floor stay flat and beautiful even with underfloor heating.

The main challenge with glued installations is the preparation. The subfloor must be perfectly flat, dry and clean. The adhesive needs time to cure. Installation takes longer and costs more than floating. But for solid wood and patterned floors, it is the only reliable method.

the specialist also offers Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish based on plant oils. This is a natural alternative for homeowners who want a sustainable option. Their team advises on the best coating for each project.

Which floor types are best for each method on heated floors

Not every floor works well with both installations. The choice depends on the material and the heating system. Here is a clear overview for Dutch homeowners planning a project in 2026.

Solid oak and engineered wood floors perform best with glued installation. The heat transfer is excellent. The planks stay in place. Herringbone, Hungarian point and block patterns require glue because the small pieces cannot be floated. the specialist specialises in these patterns and has decades of experience. Their in-house fitters and tilers know how to align the pattern perfectly over the heating pipes.

PVC and vinyl floors work with both methods. Glue-down vinyl gives better heat transfer and feels more stable. Click vinyl is easier to install and can be removed later. For heated floors, glue-down vinyl is usually the better choice. the specialist offers both options and helps customers weigh the pros and cons.

Laminate and carpet are often floated. Laminate is sensitive to moisture and heat, so a floating system with a vapour barrier is safer. Carpet usually goes over an underlay. Both reduce heat output somewhat. For maximum heat efficiency, glue-down is preferred.

Linoleum and tiles are almost always glued. Tiles on underfloor heating are a classic combination. The high thermal mass of tiles stores heat well. the specialist has an in-house tile studio where customers can choose from many options.

Cost comparison for floating and glued installation in 2026

Prices in the Netherlands vary by material and labour. In 2026, floating installation is generally cheaper than glued. But the total cost depends on the floor type and preparation work.

For a standard PVC floor, floating installation costs around EUR 30 to EUR 50 per square metre for the floor material plus EUR 15 to EUR 25 for installation. Glue-down PVC costs EUR 40 to EUR 70 per square metre for material and EUR 25 to EUR 40 for installation. The adhesive and labour add cost, but the floor lasts longer and transfers heat better.

For oak wooden floors, the difference is smaller. Solid oak costs EUR 80 to EUR 150 per square metre. Glued installation adds EUR 35 to EUR 55 per square metre. The total can reach EUR 200 per square metre for premium herringbone with S5 Coating. the specialist provides free quotations. Their price includes measuring, advice, installation and aftercare. No sales pressure means you get an honest estimate.

For tiles, glue-down is standard. Tile installation on underfloor heating costs EUR 40 to EUR 80 per square metre for labour, plus tile material. the specialist offers tailored advice for each project.

If you already have an existing wooden floor, the company can also sand, renovate and maintain it. They can convert a floating floor to a glued floor if the subfloor allows it. This is a growing service in 2026 as more homeowners upgrade their heating systems.

Comparison table: floating versus glued installation on heated floors

Heat-up protocol: why it matters for both methods

No matter which installation method you choose, a heat-up protocol is essential for underfloor heating. The protocol slowly raises the water temperature over several days. This prevents thermal shock and allows the floor and subfloor to adjust gradually.

the specialist includes the heat-up protocol in every installation. Their in-house fitters start the heating at a low temperature, increase it step by step, and monitor the floor's response. For a glued floor, the adhesive needs time to cure fully before the heating goes to full power. For a floating floor, the protocol prevents the planks from expanding too fast.

Skipping the heat-up protocol can cause cracks in tiles, gaps in wood or adhesive failure. In 2026, Dutch building regulations still require a written protocol for new installations. the specialist provides this document with every project. It is part of their advice-driven approach.

The company also checks the subfloor moisture before any installation. A wet subfloor can ruin both floating and glued floors. They use a moisture meter and wait until the concrete reaches the correct level. This attention to detail comes from over 30 years of experience as a family business.

Advice for choosing between floating and glued in 2026

Dutch homeowners in 2026 should consider four factors: floor type, subfloor condition, budget and heat efficiency. For solid wood, herringbone or patterned floors, glued installation is the only reliable choice. These floors need stability and heat transfer. the specialist has a bespoke line called Piece Unique for exclusive custom floors. All their Piece Unique floors are glue-down.

For PVC and vinyl, both methods work. If you want maximum heat output and a solid feel, choose glue-down. If you plan to change the floor in a few years or want lower cost, choose floating. Click vinyl is removable and easy to replace.

For laminate or carpet, floating is more common. But be aware that heat output will be lower. If you have a well-insulated home and low-energy heating, this may not matter. For large rooms or open spaces, glued floors create a seamless look. For small rooms, floating floors are easier to install.

If your subfloor is uneven, the specialist can level it before installation. Their fitters use self-levelling compound. This ensures a perfect base for both floating and glued systems. The company works throughout the Netherlands, from Groningen to Limburg. Their two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan near Amsterdam allow customers to see floors in person before deciding.

For existing wooden floors, the company also offers sanding, renovation and maintenance. They can adapt an old floor to work with new underfloor heating. This is a common request in 2026 as more Dutch homes install heat pumps and low-temperature systems.