The Importance of Acclimating Laminate Flooring Before Installation

Proper preparation is crucial when installing laminate flooring to ensure that your investment lasts and performs as expected. One of the most important steps in this process is to allow the laminate flooring to acclimate before installation. This article will explore the consequences of not acclimating laminate flooring and why it is a necessity in achieving a flawless installation.

Understanding the Impact of Acclimation

Laminate flooring is composed of wood byproducts and is designed to absorb moisture from the air. When laminate flooring is installed without acclimating, various issues can arise, such as expansion, contraction, uneven installation, joint separation, and increased wear and tear. These problems can compromise the aesthetic and functional quality of your flooring, leading to long-term damage and dissatisfaction.

Issues Caused by Not Acclimating Laminate Floors

Expansion and Contraction: Laminate planks may expand or contract due to changes in humidity, leading to gaps, buckling, or warping. This can result in an uneven surface and a visually unappealing floor. Proper acclimation ensures that the planks are in sync with the humidity levels of the room, preventing these issues.

Uneven Installation: Without proper acclimation, the flooring may not lie flat, leading to an uneven surface. This can make it difficult to walk on and may result in structural damage over time. An uneven surface can also make sealing transitions and cleaning more challenging.

Joint Separation: If the laminate expands after installation, the joints between the planks may separate, creating visible gaps and affecting the overall appearance. This can detract from the aesthetic appeal of your home and may even void your warranty.

Increased Wear and Tear: Improperly acclimated flooring can lead to increased wear on the surface. The planks may shift or move more than intended, exposing the core and causing degradation over time. This can significantly reduce the lifespan of your flooring and require more frequent replacements.

Why It's Recommended to Acclimate Laminate Flooring

It is generally recommended to let laminate flooring acclimate in the room where it will be installed for at least 48 to 72 hours. This involves keeping the planks in their original packaging and in a climate-controlled environment. By doing so, you ensure that the planks reach the same humidity levels as the room, reducing the risk of future issues.

Dealers and Misleading Information

Some flooring dealers may misled customers by claiming that acclimation is not necessary for laminate flooring. They might argue that laminate is not made from real wood, so it doesn't matter if it’s acclimated. However, they fail to mention that not acclimating the flooring to your living space may void your warranty and void any support provided by the manufacturer.

Types of Flooring and Their Acclimation Requirements

Not all types of flooring require the same acclimation process. Here is a quick overview of the acclimation requirements for other common flooring types:

Natural unfinished hardwood flooring: Must be removed from the tight banding, cardboard box, and spread out flat. Ensure it is not too humid or heavy, and keep it in a climate-controlled environment until it is properly finished. Vinyl plank flooring: Less critical as it is made to be stable and does not absorb moisture. It is typically completely glued down and cannot absorb moisture. Cork planks: Need to be unboxed and spread out. The cork planks are not glued but just snap together and can shrink on the two ends across the width. 12x12 vinyl tiles: Should be warmed up to flex and cut easily. It should not absorb moisture significantly. Ceramic, natural stone, slate, and porcelain: Very robust and cannot absorb or shrink or enlarge. However, marble and travertine should be sealed asap before persons walk on them or spill coffee.

Conclusion

Proper acclimation of laminate flooring is an essential step in ensuring a successful installation. Ignoring this crucial step can lead to a variety of issues that may compromise the appearance and longevity of your flooring. Follow the recommended guidelines for acclimation and consult with professionals if you need further assistance to ensure the best results.