Hardwood flooring is a hydroscopic material which will change in dimension as a result of changes in humidity in the surrounding environment.
What happens if you don t acclimate hardwood floor.
The equilibrium moisture content in the recommended temperature and humidity range shaded.
All vinyl plank flooring has a high density fie core which is porous even when it looks solid.
What happens if you don t acclimate laminate.
Before installing wood floors the flooring needs to reach a moisture content mc level that is in equilibrium with the surrounding environment.
Sadly some flooring dealers will tell you that you don t have to acclimate laminate floors.
Start with taking readings of your wood subfloor.
They will tell you that laminate isn t real wood so it doesn t.
The better way to determine if the engineered wood floors are ready is by measuring their moisture content.
How to acclimate hardwood flooring.
Like hardwood flooring laminate floors need a little tlc along the way.
Never attempt to condition wood planks outside or in a garage or basement where the humidity and temperature vary greatly throughout the day and don t simulate.
Whether it s engineered hardwood bamboo or real wood it s crucial to acclimate wood floors before installation this process ensures that your wood reaches a moisture content level that s in sync with the surrounding environment.
This process is known as hardwood acclimation.
From the moment you finalize your purchase there are a few things you need to do to ensure quality installation.
This step may require some planning to ensure you have enough indoor storage space.
Failure to properly acclimate hardwood flooring before installation begins may compromise the integrity of your floor.
If you don t acclimate wood flooring it can cause a myriad of problems.
Not acclimating hardwood floors can cause excessive gaps warping buckling or cupping after the installation is complete.
The period within which you will acclimate your floor depends on various factors such as the material of your ideal flooring geographic location current temperatures and humidity and expected climate changes.
Acclimating allows the individual planks to adjust to the temperature and humidity levels found in the room they will be installed in.
The expansion joint may also be compromised which will result in further damage.
Improper acclimation can result in excessive shrinkage expansion dimensional distortion or structural damage.
Inside the boxes make sure the room or level where the flooring will be laid is an enclosed space.
Below are the things you need to do to determine if your engineered wood floors have acclimated.
Always acclimate hardwood flooring in a controlled environment that s completely enclosed.
Acclimating new wood flooring is important for all kinds of wood including laminate.