How Long Does Laminate Flooring Need To Acclimate?

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its durability and ease of installation. However, before installation, it is important to make sure the laminate flooring has been properly acclimated or adjusted to the environment of the room. This process is essential for ensuring that the laminate flooring will perform as expected and last for many years. But how long does laminate flooring need to acclimate?

Why Acclimation is Necessary

Acclimation is important for laminate flooring because it helps the flooring adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity levels. Laminate flooring is made of wood, which means it can expand and contract in response to changes in temperature and humidity. If the flooring is not allowed to acclimate, the boards can expand and contract unevenly, leading to gaps and buckling. Acclimating the flooring will help ensure that it remains securely in place for many years.

How Long Does Laminate Flooring Need To Acclimate?

The amount of time it takes for laminate flooring to acclimate depends on the brand and type of flooring. Generally, the manufacturer will recommend a specific acclimation time period, usually between 48 to 72 hours. It is important to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that the flooring is properly acclimated. If the manufacturer does not have a specific time period, you should allow the flooring to acclimate for at least 48 hours.

Acclimation Process

The acclimation process is fairly simple. First, the laminate flooring should be removed from the packaging and placed in the room where it will be installed. The planks should be arranged to ensure there is adequate air circulation between them. The room temperature should be between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity should be between 35 and 55 percent. After the planks have been arranged, they should be left in the room for the recommended acclimation time period.

Tips For Acclimating Laminate Flooring

There are a few tips that can help ensure the acclimation process is successful. First, it is important to make sure that the room temperature is consistent. If the temperature fluctuates, the flooring may not acclimate properly. Additionally, it is important to avoid walking on the flooring during the acclimation period, as this can cause the planks to expand unevenly. Lastly, if you are installing the flooring in a room with an existing floor, make sure to acclimate the laminate flooring in that room, as the existing floor may affect the acclimation process.

Conclusion

Acclimating laminate flooring is an important part of the installation process. It is important to make sure the flooring is given enough time to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity. Generally, the manufacturer will recommend a specific acclimation time period, usually between 48 to 72 hours. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations and following the tips outlined in this article will help ensure the acclimation process is successful and the flooring will perform as expected.