The Importance of Hardwood Floor Acclimation

You've chosen solid hardwood or engineered wood floors you love, and you're ready to install them. Before you do, it's important to allow the floors to acclimate in your home. This process is a straightforward but essential step for a successful installation. So, learn more about hardwood floor acclimation, and be patient before installation begins. Remember: it's worth the wait to acclimate!

What Is Hardwood Floor Acclimation?

Acclimation ensures your new flooring adjusts to your home's ambient temperature and humidity levels. Solid hardwood and engineered hardwood flooring should acclimate in the room where it will be installed. While both types of flooring require acclimation, engineered hardwood floors may adjust to the new space more quickly, resulting in a more efficient process. Proper acclimation reduces the likelihood of seasonal expansion and contraction, squeaking, buckling, or cupping. If floors are installed before acclimating to the space, seasonal movement may be more likely. So, consider acclimation an investment in your floors—give them time to adjust to the space so that they hold up well over time.

How to Acclimate Hardwood Flooring

We've got good news: hardwood flooring acclimation is a relatively hands-off process that simply requires time and patience. As you prepare your home for new flooring, consider these tips to ensure your floors are thoroughly acclimated to your room.

• Setup: Flooring needs to be exposed to your room's air to acclimate; refer to your product's Warranty, Installation, and Care instructions for guidance on acclimation.
• Timing: Hardwood floor acclimation time varies, and the only way to properly determine that your floors are acclimated and ready for installation is by using a moisture meter.
• Temperature and humidity: Make sure your room maintains a consistent temperature and humidity level during the acclimation process. Generally, the indoor temperature should be between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and 30% and 50% relative humidity before, during, and after acclimation.
• Moisture levels: Check the moisture content of multiple boards to ensure proper acclimation. It's recommended to test 40 boards for every 1,000 square feet of flooring.
• WIC guide: Read your Warranty, Installation, and Care guide to learn more specifics about the acclimation process. This guide can offer suggested time frames and proper humidity levels specific to your flooring.

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Acclimate Now, and Enjoy Your Floors Later

If you're wondering, "Does hardwood flooring have to acclimate?" the answer is, "Yes." Proper acclimation can help reduce warping or buckling after installation, making it a key step in the pre-installation process. Ready to get started? Explore more of LL Flooring's installation guides to prepare for your next project.