Hardwood flooring remains one of, if not the most, sought after forms of flooring available. Indeed, most forms of flooring – from LVP to laminate – are all designed to mimic wood flooring, because wood flooring is immensely popular.
But hardwood flooring is made out of real wood, and as a result, it is at risk for wood-related issues in a way that a product like vinyl or tile would not be. For example, wood expands and shrinks in humid weather.
That is why good flooring contractors know how important it is to acclimate the wood to the location where it’s being built before it has been installed.
Acclimating hardwood floors is a simple but incredibly important step in the flooring installation process, ensuring long-term performance, stability, and durability. If you’re interested in hardwood flooring our would like to learn more about our hardwood flooring options, reach out to Christian Construction, today.
What Is Acclimation for Hardwood Floors?
Acclimation refers to the process of letting hardwood flooring materials adjust to the surrounding climate of the space where they will be installed.
Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it naturally absorbs and releases moisture based on its environment. Changes in humidity and temperature can cause wood to expand or contract. If this happens after installation, it can dramatically alter the quality of the work.
During acclimation, the flooring materials are stored in the same space where they will be installed, giving them time to reach a moisture balance with the room’s conditions. This acclimation typically takes a few days, and forgetting this acclimation is one of the most common reasons that people have hardwood flooring installation problems.
Why Is Acclimation Important?
Skipping the acclimation process can lead to structural and aesthetic issues with hardwood flooring, often resulting in costly repairs or replacements. Acclimation is important because, when properly acclimated, it:
- Prevents Expansion and Contraction – Without proper acclimation, wood can expand or shrink after installation, leading to visible gaps or buckling.
- Reduces the Risk of Warping and Cupping – Wood that adjusts to the room’s humidity before installation is less likely to warp or cup due to moisture imbalances.
- Ensures Long-Term Stability – Acclimated wood remains more stable, improving the longevity and performance of the flooring.
This process is so important that many manufacturer warranties require acclimation, or the warranty is voided. In order to have your flooring warranty in good standing, acclimation is necessary.
How to Properly Acclimate Hardwood Flooring
The acclimation process requires careful preparation and monitoring to ensure the wood reaches a moisture balance with its environment. Key steps include:
- Control the Environment – Ensure the HVAC system is operational and the space is maintained at a consistent temperature (60°F to 80°F) and humidity level (30% to 50%).
- Leave Flooring in Original Packaging – Keep the planks in their original boxes with the ends open to allow gradual adjustment.
- Elevate and Space Flooring Boxes – Stack flooring boxes with spacers to allow proper air circulation around all sides of the planks.
- Check Moisture Content – Use a moisture meter to compare the moisture content of the wood and subfloor. The difference should be within the manufacturer’s recommended range, typically around 2% for solid hardwood.
The recommended time for acclimation varies but generally lasts 3 to 7 days, depending on wood species and environmental conditions.
When Is Acclimation Not Necessary?
While acclimation is crucial for most solid hardwoods, certain flooring products may not require extensive acclimation. These include:
- Engineered Hardwood – Due to its multi-layered construction, engineered hardwood is less sensitive to humidity changes and often requires minimal acclimation.
- Pre-Acclimated or Kiln-Dried Flooring – Some products are treated to stabilize moisture content and may require shorter acclimation periods.
As experts in flooring, our team at Chrisitan Construction will provide guidance on which products need acclimation and which ones do not, and can help make sure that your flooring is ready for installation and extensive use.
Ensure Long-Lasting Results with Proper Acclimation
Acclimating hardwood floors is a crucial step that protects the integrity of your flooring investment. By allowing the wood to adjust to the environment before installation, you can prevent costly issues like warping, buckling, and gaps.
For expert guidance on hardwood flooring preparation and installation, consider working with a professional who can ensure the job is done right from the start. Christian Construction provides flooring throughout the NYC region, and we’re here to help you make sure that you have the perfect floors for your property. Give us a call today to get started.
