When installing luxury vinyl flooring, many homeowners wonder if acclimation is necessary. Acclimation helps flooring adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity before installation, but does this apply to luxury vinyl? Let's explore the importance of acclimating luxury vinyl flooring and how it can affect your installation process.
What is acclimation?
Acclimation is the process of allowing flooring materials to adjust to the environment in which they will be installed. Factors such as temperature and humidity can affect flooring materials, leading to expansion or contraction. By acclimating the flooring, you minimize the risk of issues like buckling, warping, or gapping after installation. This process is crucial for natural materials like hardwood, but what about synthetic options like luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank?
Does luxury vinyl need to be acclimated?
The short answer is yes. While luxury vinyl is more stable than natural flooring materials, it is still susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity. Luxury vinyl flooring can expand and contract slightly when exposed to different environmental conditions. Without proper acclimation, you risk gaps between planks or tiles, which can affect the look and longevity of your floor.
Acclimating luxury vinyl flooring for at least 48 hours in the room where it will be installed is recommended. Make sure the space is at normal living conditions, with temperatures between 65°F and 85°F and relative humidity levels between 35% and 65%.
Steps to acclimate luxury vinyl floors
To acclimate luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank properly, follow these simple steps:
- Place the flooring boxes in the room where it will be installed.
- Lay the boxes flat, keeping them closed to avoid premature exposure to room conditions.
- Ensure the temperature and humidity in the room are stable within the recommended range.
- Allow the flooring to sit for 48 hours to adjust to the environment.
Why acclimation matters
Skipping the acclimation process can lead to costly mistakes. Even though luxury vinyl is known for its durability and resistance to wear, temperature fluctuations can still impact its performance. Acclimating your luxury vinyl flooring ensures a more secure installation and helps maintain the integrity of your new floor.
Your experts on luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl plank in Norman, OK
While luxury vinyl flooring is incredibly resilient, acclimating it is essential for a smooth installation and long-term performance. Taking the time to properly acclimate your flooring will help you avoid future issues and enjoy your beautiful new floors for years.
Our showroom in Norman, OK, serves Norman, Moore, Edmond, and Yukon, OK. Call or stop by Urban Flooring LLC today!
