How To Acclimate Engineered Hardwood Flooring

How to Acclimate Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Engineered hardwood flooring is a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood floors without the high cost. However, it is important to acclimate engineered hardwood flooring before installing it. Acclimation allows the flooring to adjust to the temperature and humidity of your home, which will help to prevent buckling, cupping, and other problems.

The acclimation process is simple and only takes a few days. First, place the boxes of flooring in the room where it will be installed. Open the boxes and spread the planks out evenly. Leave the planks in the room for at least 48 hours, but no more than 7 days.

During the acclimation period, keep the room temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity between 30 and 50 percent. You can use a hygrometer to measure the temperature and humidity. If the temperature or humidity is too high or too low, the flooring may not acclimate properly.

Once the flooring has acclimated, you can begin the installation process. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing engineered hardwood flooring.

Here are some additional tips for acclimating engineered hardwood flooring:

Do not stack the boxes of flooring on top of each other. This can prevent the flooring from acclimating properly.
Do not install the flooring immediately after it has been delivered to your home. Allow the flooring to acclimate for at least 48 hours before beginning the installation process.
If you live in a humid climate, you may need to acclimate the flooring for longer than 48 hours. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific acclimation times.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your engineered hardwood flooring is properly acclimated and will last for many years to come.