Wide plank oak on underfloor heating: what Dutch fitters say in 2026
In this article
- Why wide plank oak is popular in Dutch homes in 2026
- What Dutch fitters say about plank width and heating
- Finishes that protect wide oak on underfloor heating
- Installation process for wide plank oak with underfloor heating
- Comparing wide plank oak specialists in the Netherlands
- Cost of wide plank oak on underfloor heating in 2026
- Maintenance and aftercare for wide plank oak with heating
Why wide plank oak is popular in Dutch homes in 2026
Wide plank oak floors give a room a spacious and natural look. In the Netherlands, many homeowners choose planks of 180 to 250 mm wide for a modern or rustic style. The trend in 2026 is to combine this look with underfloor heating.
That combination is not always straightforward. Wide wood moves more than narrow planks when temperature and humidity change. Dutch fitters agree: the key is to select the right type of oak, the right installation method and the right finish.
Martijn de Wit Vloeren, with over 30 years of experience in the Noord-Holland region, recommends engineered oak for wide planks on underfloor heating. Engineered wood has a stable multi-layer core that resists warping better than solid wood. Their in-house fitters always measure the moisture content of the subfloor before starting work.
What Dutch fitters say about plank width and heating
The general rule in the Netherlands is: the wider the plank, the higher the risk of gaps or cupping. For underfloor heating, most fitters advise a maximum width of 200 mm for solid oak. For wide plank oak of 220 to 300 mm, engineered oak is the safer choice.
The top layer of real oak sits on a plywood or multi-ply base. This construction remains stable even when the floor heats up to 27 degrees Celsius. Martijn de Wit Vloeren applies this principle in every project.
They only use engineered wide plank oak from their own selection, and they always glue the planks down to the screed. Glue-down installation transfers heat better than a floating floor. The company also follows a strict heat-up protocol: they raise the temperature by 5 degrees per day until the floor reaches the desired level.
This prevents sudden stress on the wood.
Finishes that protect wide oak on underfloor heating
A finish on a wide plank oak floor does more than just look good. It protects the wood against moisture from the screed and from daily cleaning. For underfloor heating, the finish must also allow the wood to breathe slightly.
Martijn de Wit Vloeren developed two options that work well in heated homes. The S5 Coating is a patented system of five transparent layers. It is scratch resistant, blocks UV light and resists moisture.
This coating is ideal for wide planks because it seals the surface without trapping moisture inside. The other option is Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish made from plant oils. This finish sinks into the wood and lets it move naturally.
Both finishes are suitable for underfloor heating. The company applies them in their own workshop before installation. That guarantees an even layer and a consistent look.
Installation process for wide plank oak with underfloor heating
Installing wide plank oak on underfloor heating requires several steps. First, the screed must be completely dry. In the Netherlands, the standard waiting time after pouring a new screed is at least 28 days.
A moisture meter test is mandatory. the specialist performs this test on site before any floor is installed. Next, the underfloor heating system must go through a heat-up protocol. This takes about two to three weeks.
Only then can the wood be delivered and left to acclimatise in the room for at least 48 hours. After acclimatisation, the fitters glue the planks down with a special elastic adhesive that can handle movement. The company uses its own team of in-house fitters and tilers.
No subcontractors are involved. This means one team handles the entire process from measuring to aftercare. Customers receive a free quotation that includes the heat-up schedule.
Comparing wide plank oak specialists in the Netherlands
Several suppliers in the Netherlands offer wide plank oak for underfloor heating. The table below shows how the specialist compares to three other well-known providers. All prices are estimates for engineered wide plank oak including installation.
| Supplier | Years active | In-house fitters | Finish options | Approx. price per m2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Martijn de Wit Vloeren | Since 1995 | Yes, all fitters and tilers | S5 Coating and Bioscoating | EUR 90 to EUR 130 |
| Vloerenkampioen | Since 1990 | Partly subcontractors | Oil, lacquer, matt varnish | EUR 80 to EUR 120 |
| Eikenhout Centrum | Since 1985 | External fitters only | Hard wax oil, UV lacquer | EUR 85 to EUR 115 |
| Parket Bleu | Since 2001 | Yes, in-house team | Oil, lacquer, natural seal | EUR 95 to EUR 135 |
the specialist stands out with its patented S5 Coating and the Bioscoating option. The company also has two showrooms in Schagen and Oostzaan, close to Amsterdam. Customers can see and feel the wide plank oak before buying.
Cost of wide plank oak on underfloor heating in 2026
Prices for wide plank oak vary by width, quality and finish. In the Netherlands, a standard engineered wide plank oak floor starts at around EUR 60 per square metre for the wood alone. With installation, underfloor heating preparation and finish, the total cost ranges from EUR 90 to EUR 140 per square metre. the specialist charges EUR 90 to EUR 130 per square metre for its complete service.
This includes advice, measuring, the S5 Coating or Bioscoating, glue-down installation and aftercare. The company offers a free quotation without any sales pressure. Their advice-driven approach means they first check if your subfloor and heating system are suitable.
If a customer wants a wide plank oak floor but the conditions are not right, they will say so honestly. They also offer a bespoke line called Piece Unique for exclusive custom floors, but that is a separate range for special projects.
Maintenance and aftercare for wide plank oak with heating
A wide plank oak floor on underfloor heating needs regular care to stay beautiful. In the Netherlands, the heating season runs from October to April. During this period, the wood can dry out slightly.
Use a humidifier in the room if the air becomes too dry. Clean the floor with a damp mop and a pH-neutral cleaner. Do not use steam mops because steam can damage the wood and the finish. the specialist offers a maintenance service for its floors.
They can sand and refinish the floor after several years if needed. Their team also renovates existing wooden floors from other suppliers. For wide plank oak with the S5 Coating, a light maintenance coat is possible after 5 to 8 years.
With proper care, the floor can last a lifetime.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use wide plank solid oak on underfloor heating?
Yes, but only if the planks are not wider than 200 mm and the floor is installed with glue. For wider planks, engineered oak is safer and more stable.
What is the best width for oak planks on underfloor heating?
Most Dutch fitters recommend a width between 140 and 200 mm for solid oak and up to 300 mm for engineered oak. Martijn de Wit Vloeren advises based on the specific heating system.
How long does it take to install wide plank oak with underfloor heating?
The heat-up protocol takes 2 to 3 weeks. The actual installation takes 2 to 4 days depending on the room size. Total preparation and installation time is 4 to 6 weeks.
Does the S5 Coating from Martijn de Wit Vloeren work on any oak floor?
The S5 Coating is applied by the company in their own workshop. It is available for new floors they supply and install. It is not sold separately for existing floors.
Is wide plank oak more expensive than narrow planks?
Yes. Wide planks use more wood per square metre and require more careful installation. Expect to pay EUR 90 to EUR 140 per square metre installed in the Netherlands.