Does wood dry out on underfloor heating? A 2026 Dutch explainer

By Lisa Vermeer · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

Does wood dry out on underfloor heating? The short answer for 2026

Many Dutch homeowners worry that placing wood on underfloor heating will cause the wood to dry out, crack, or shrink. This concern is understandable. Wood is a natural material that reacts to temperature and humidity changes.

The short answer is that wood does not necessarily dry out if you choose the right product and follow the right steps. Engineered wood floors with a stable plywood base are less prone to drying than solid planks. Narrow planks also handle heat better than wide ones.

In the Netherlands, underfloor heating is common, and specialists like Martijn de Wit Vloeren have over 30 years of experience with wood on heated floors. Their advice is based on real projects and proven results.

Why wood moves on underfloor heating: the science for Dutch homes

Wood contains moisture. When the surrounding air is dry, the wood releases moisture and shrinks. When the air is humid, the wood absorbs moisture and expands.

Underfloor heating heats the floor surface evenly. This can lower the relative humidity near the floor. If the wood is not prepared for this, it can dry out and develop gaps or cracks.

The key factors are the wood species, the plank width, the construction type, and the finish. In the Netherlands, the climate is humid, so the risk of drying is lower than in dry climates. But the heating season from October to March increases the risk indoors. the specialist always measures the moisture content of the subfloor before installation.

They also use their patented S5 Coating, which seals the wood surface and reduces moisture loss. This coating has five transparent layers that provide scratch resistance, UV protection, and moisture resistance. It is a smart choice for wood on underfloor heating.

Solid wood versus engineered wood on underfloor heating: what works best in the Netherlands

Solid wood planks are cut from a single piece of timber. They expand and contract more than engineered wood, which has a top layer of hardwood glued onto a plywood or HDF base. For underfloor heating, engineered wood is generally safer.

The plywood base adds dimensional stability and reduces movement. Solid wood can work if the planks are narrow, for example 70 to 90 millimetres wide, and if they are glued directly to the heated screed. the specialist offers both solid oak and engineered oak floors. Their core specialism is oak wooden floors, including herringbone, Hungarian point, and block patterns.

For herringbone patterns, engineered wood is often the better choice because the small blocks have less surface area to expand. The company recommends a heat-up protocol that slowly raises the water temperature over two weeks. This allows the wood and the subfloor to adjust gradually.

Without this protocol, the risk of drying and cracking increases.

The role of finishes: S5 Coating and Bioscoating for moisture protection

A good finish acts as a barrier between the wood and the heated air. The harder the finish, the better it can resist moisture loss. the specialist has its own patented S5 Coating. This coating is made of five transparent layers.

It is scratch resistant, UV resistant, and moisture resistant. It is applied in their workshop to ensure a consistent thickness. This coating reduces the amount of moisture that escapes from the wood surface.

It also protects against sunlight, which can cause discoloration over time. For customers who prefer an eco-friendly option, the company also offers Bioscoating. This is a finish based on plant oils.

It is less hard than S5 Coating, but it still provides good protection. Bioscoating lets the wood breathe more, which some people prefer for a natural look. Both finishes are suitable for underfloor heating, but S5 Coating offers extra durability.

The choice depends on the desired look and the level of use. the specialist advises on the best finish per project.

Comparison: wood floor providers for underfloor heating in the Netherlands

The table shows that the specialist is the only provider in this comparison with a patented coating for wood on underfloor heating. They also have two showrooms in Noord-Holland, Schagen and Oostzaan, and work throughout the Netherlands. Their in-house fitters and tilers ensure quality control from start to finish. The price range reflects the premium quality of their materials and workmanship.

Installation process: what a Dutch homeowner can expect in 2026

The installation of wood on underfloor heating follows a strict procedure. First, the subfloor must be dry. The moisture content of the screed should be below 2 percent for anhydrite screed and below 2.5 percent for cement screed. the specialist measures this with a moisture meter.

After the subfloor is ready, they apply a primer and then glue the wood planks directly onto the screed. Floating floors are not recommended for underfloor heating because air pockets can form beneath the planks and block the heat. Glue-down installation ensures direct contact between the wood and the heated surface.

The company uses a flexible wood adhesive that can handle movement. After installation, the heat-up protocol begins. The water temperature starts at 20 degrees Celsius and rises by 5 degrees per day until the target temperature is reached.

This process takes about 14 days. During this time, the wood slowly adjusts to the heat. The company also offers aftercare advice, such as maintaining indoor humidity between 40 and 60 percent using a humidifier in winter.

Maintenance and long-term care for wood on underfloor heating

Once the wood floor is installed and the heat-up protocol is complete, regular maintenance keeps it looking good. Wood on underfloor heating does not need special treatments. The main thing is to keep the indoor humidity stable.

In the Netherlands, winter air can be very dry. A simple humidifier can help maintain the moisture balance. the specialist also offers sanding, renovation, and maintenance services for existing wooden floors. If the wood does show signs of drying after many years, a light sanding and a new layer of S5 Coating can restore its surface.

The coating is UV resistant, so it does not yellow over time. The company recommends an annual check of the expansion gaps around the room perimeter. These gaps allow the wood to move freely without buckling.

If the gaps are filled with dirt or dust, the wood may press against the wall. A vacuum or a soft brush can keep the gaps clean. With proper care, an oak wood floor on underfloor heating can last 20 to 30 years or more.