Hardwood flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its natural beauty, durability, and timeless appeal. However, before installation, there is an essential step that is often overlooked but crucial for the long-term performance of the flooring: acclimation. Acclimating hardwood flooring is a process that helps the wood adjust to the humidity and temperature conditions of the home. But why is it necessary, and how do you do it properly? In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about acclimating hardwood flooring and why it’s a step you shouldn’t skip.
What Is Acclimation and Why Is It Important?
Acclimation refers to the process of allowing hardwood flooring to adjust to the specific temperature and humidity levels of the home where it will be installed. Hardwood is a natural material that reacts to changes in its environment by expanding and contracting. If the wood is installed before it has had a chance to acclimate to the surrounding conditions, it can lead to several problems down the road.
Why Acclimating Hardwood Flooring Is Crucial
Wood is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs and releases moisture from the air. The moisture content in the wood is affected by the humidity levels in the home, and this causes the wood to expand or contract. If hardwood flooring is installed without being properly acclimated, it may shrink or swell after installation, causing gaps, warping, or buckling.
Preventing Shrinking and Gaps
If the wood is installed when it’s too moist, it will eventually dry out, causing the planks to shrink and create unsightly gaps between boards. These gaps can be difficult and costly to repair once the flooring has been laid.
Avoiding Swelling and Buckling
Conversely, if the wood is installed when it’s too dry, it may absorb moisture from the air and expand, leading to swelling. This expansion can cause the wood to push against each other, resulting in buckling or cupping.
Environmental Factors That Affect Acclimation
Several environmental factors can impact the acclimation process, making it even more important to take the time to let the wood adjust before installation.
- Humidity Levels: Hardwood flooring performs best when the relative humidity in the home is between 30% and 50%. If the home is too humid or too dry, it can impact the wood’s moisture content and its ability to acclimate properly.
- Temperature: Wood responds to changes in temperature, so it’s important to maintain a consistent indoor temperature (between 60°F and 80°F) during acclimation.
- Seasonal Changes: Homes in regions with drastic seasonal temperature and humidity fluctuations may experience greater challenges with wood movement. Acclimation can help mitigate these issues.
How Long Does Hardwood Flooring Need to Acclimate?
The length of time hardwood flooring needs to acclimate depends on various factors, including the type of wood, the environment, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. On average, hardwood flooring should be acclimated for at least 48 to 72 hours, but some manufacturers may recommend longer, especially in homes with significant humidity changes.
Factors That Affect Acclimation Time
Several factors can influence the length of time required for acclimation:
- Type of Wood: Different species of wood may have varying moisture levels and therefore require different acclimation periods. For example, engineered hardwood may require less acclimation time than solid hardwood.
- Plank Thickness: Thicker planks may take longer to acclimate because they contain more wood, which takes time to adjust to the environment.
- Humidity and Temperature: Homes with high humidity or significant temperature fluctuations may require a longer acclimation period to allow the wood to stabilize.
When Is Hardwood Fully Acclimated?
To determine if hardwood flooring is fully acclimated, measure the moisture content of both the wood and the subfloor using a moisture meter. The difference between the two should not exceed 2% for strip flooring (boards less than 3 inches wide) or 4% for plank flooring (boards wider than 3 inches). If the moisture content of the hardwood is within this range, it’s ready for installation.
How to Acclimate Hardwood Flooring
Acclimating hardwood flooring is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the right steps to ensure your floor adjusts properly to the environment. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to acclimate hardwood flooring.
Step-by-Step Guide to Acclimating Hardwood Flooring
- Prepare the Installation Site: Before bringing the wood into your home, make sure the installation site is ready. This includes maintaining the appropriate temperature (between 60°F and 80°F) and relative humidity (between 30% and 50%).
- Deliver the Flooring: Once the installation site is prepared, bring the hardwood flooring into the room where it will be installed. It’s important to store the boxes in the same room where the installation will take place, as different rooms may have different humidity and temperature levels.
- Open the Boxes: Open the boxes or loosen the packaging to allow air to circulate around the wood. This helps the wood absorb or release moisture and acclimate to the room’s conditions. Be sure to stack the planks in small piles with space between them to promote airflow.
- Monitor Humidity and Temperature: During the acclimation process, regularly check the room’s humidity and temperature to ensure they remain consistent. Sudden changes in environmental conditions can affect the acclimation process.
- Use a Moisture Meter: After 48 to 72 hours, use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the hardwood planks and the subfloor. If the moisture levels are within the acceptable range (within 2% for strip flooring or 4% for plank flooring), the hardwood is ready to be installed.
Do All Types of Hardwood Flooring Need to Be Acclimated?
While most types of hardwood flooring need to be acclimated, some exceptions exist. Engineered hardwood, for example, is less sensitive to moisture and temperature changes compared to solid hardwood. Therefore, it may not require as long of an acclimation period. However, it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure the best results.
Acclimating hardwood flooring is a critical step in ensuring that your new floors look beautiful and perform well for years to come. By allowing the wood to adjust to the environment, you can prevent common issues like gaps, buckling, and warping. Taking the time to acclimate your hardwood flooring properly will save you from costly repairs down the line.
If you're planning to install hardwood flooring in your home and need expert guidance on acclimation and installation, visit Above Board Flooring or stop by their store in Mooresville, NC. Serving the Lake Norman, NC area, their team can help you choose the perfect hardwood flooring and ensure it's installed correctly for lasting beauty and durability.
