Does Laminate Flooring Need To Acclimate? - Laminate Floor Installation & Maintenance Guide

Because of its longevity, laminate flooring is a popular choice among homeowners

Installing flooring straight from the box can lead to expansion or contraction as it reacts to the room, which may cause the planks to warp. It can also cause gaps to form, or even make the floor buckle. It may even void your flooring warranty.

The solution to this problem is simple. By giving your laminate flooring time to adjust to your home's environment, you can avoid long-term damage issues and achieve a more visually appealing installation.

Understanding the Science Behind Laminate Flooring Acclimation

Understanding the components of laminate flooring and the environmental impact of each will also explain why laminate flooring acclimation is important. It is also important to understand that laminate flooring is not just a single-piece flooring system. Rather, laminate flooring is a system composed of four layers.

There are four levels in the laminate flooring system

The top layer consists of a thin, transparent cover, known as the wear layer. This layer protects against and resists scratches, stains, and fading over time.

• Design Layer - A detailed photographic image that looks like wood, stone, or other materials.
• Core Layer - The thickest layer, typically made of high-density fiberboard (HDF - wood fibers glued and pressed together) or medium-density fiberboard (MDF), which provides strength and stability.
• Backing Layer - A moisture-resistant layer that helps control warping and adds structural integrity.

The core layer is especially vital when addressing acclimation, due to the wood fibers that react strongly to humidity and temperature changes. Wood fibers tend to absorb moisture from the surrounding environment, causing them to expand and contract. Solid wood flooring also moves, but in laminate flooring this movement is driven mainly by the core layer and can show up more noticeably.

The production of laminate flooring involves strict control of humidity and temperature. As laminate flooring is produced and shipped to your home, it passes through various climates that can cause moisture absorption, leading to the flooring planks expanding or shrinking. If installed before experiencing the humidity and temperature of your home, the planks will continue to adjust after being laid, leading to issues such as buckling, gapping, or warping.

The Issues that Arise From Not Taking the Time to Properly Acclimate

There are several issues that can affect the appearance and functionality of your flooring if you don't properly acclimate your laminate flooring. For example, Mike from Phoenix ran his heater hard through the winter, which dried out his newly installed floor. Gaps appeared between planks, the floor looked worn fast, and debris collected in the seams. The long-term issues that can arise from poorly acclimated laminate flooring are listed below.

Buckling

This is when the laminate plank shifts and either folds or lifts off the subfloor. This is common in humid areas. Places like basements and bathrooms are prone to causing flooring to buckle. Flooring can become permanently damaged and need to be replaced. This is a long and expensive process and may mean that the entire flooring will need to be replaced.

Flooring buckling is common in areas like bathrooms and basements

Gapping

Gapping occurs when laminate planks shrink due to moisture loss and create gaps between the planks. This problem is worse in dry environments. For instance, in winter, central heating can dry the air out; even small gaps can make the floor look like it has a major issue. Gaps can also collect dirt and debris, making the floor look unsightly. Gaps also can weaken the structural integrity of the floor, leading to loose or squeaky planks over time.

Additionally, gaps can gather dirt and debris, giving the floor an ugly appearance

Warping

Warping occurs when laminate absorbs moisture unevenly, causing the planks to bend or cup. This issue occurs when the flooring is exposed to water spills, high humidity, or even an uneven subfloor. It becomes a safety issue and makes the floor uncomfortable to walk on. In many cases, warped planks cannot be repaired and must be replaced.

Click-Lock System Problems

Most laminate flooring manufacturers use a click-lock system where the floorboards snap into place without glue, making installation easier. The system is designed to make installation easier; however, if the floorboards have not been properly acclimated and humidity changes, the click-lock joints can weaken and even pull apart. This results in an unstable, noisy floor that can become further damaged.

Voiding Your Warranty

Another frustrating result of not acclimating your flooring is that your warranty may become void. Most manufacturers of laminate flooring include specific warranty guidelines regarding acclimation. If you do not follow the guidelines, and when an issue arises with your flooring, they can deny a warranty repair. This is also why you should read all warranty guidelines before making a flooring purchase.

Homeowners often have questions when a problem arises, reiterating the need to acclimate the flooring before installation. In order to protect your investment, you need to acclimate the laminate flooring before installation to minimize potential warranty concerns.

Finding the Optimal Acclimation Period

There are a number of factors that affect the acclimation period of laminate flooring, such as the type of laminate, the humidity and temperature inside your home, and the condition of the subfloor. Industry standards suggest flooring should acclimate for at least 48 hours, but that is not a one-size-fits-all solution and is unlikely to meet your specific circumstances. If you are trying to determine how long laminate flooring needs to acclimate, it often depends on the conditions of the room, coupled with the specifications that the manufacturer provides. Here are some of the most important factors you should think about when trying to establish how long to acclimate your flooring:

The temperature and humidity levels in your house are two of the many variables that impact how long laminate flooring takes to acclimate

Humidity

Humidity is among the most important elements that affect acclimation. In general, laminate flooring functions most optimally when the relative humidity is kept between 35%-55%. Extending the acclimation period may be necessary if the humidity of your home falls outside these values.

• Low Humidity (Below 30%) - In dry conditions like a home with central heating during winter, the laminate planks may dry out and shrink. To avoid gaps, acclimating the flooring for at least 48 hours is recommended, and using a humidifier may help improve moisture levels.
• High Humidity (Above 60%) - In humid conditions like basements or homes with tropical weather, laminate planks may absorb moisture and expand. To avoid buckling, acclimating the flooring for 72 hours is necessary, and a dehumidifier will help to reduce moisture levels.
• Extreme Humidity (Above 70%) - In regions with higher humidity levels (e.g., tropical climates, some newly built homes, etc.), laminate flooring may not be an ideal option. If you still decide to install laminate flooring, it is recommended that you acclimate the flooring for 5 to 7 days and take additional measures to control moisture, such as a moisture barrier underlayment.

One of the most significant factors influencing acclimatization is humidity

Temperature Levels

Temperature also impacts the acclimation process. The optimal environmental conditions for laminate flooring are anywhere from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). If the temperature in your home is higher or lower, you may need to modify the acclimation period or take measures to stabilize the temperature before proceeding to install the flooring.

• Cold Temperatures (Below 50°F or 10°C) - In colder climates, laminate flooring may become more susceptible to damage during the installation process. To prevent this, you should acclimate the flooring for 48 hours and ensure the temperature in the area is warm enough before installing the flooring.
• High Temperatures (Over 90°F or 32°C) - When laminate planks are exposed to heat, they may expand and become more difficult to properly install. To minimize this, try to acclimate your flooring for 48 hours at a cooler temperature prior to installation.

A helpful way to think about it: laminate flooring needs to acclimate to the specific room where it will be installed. That will be the environment it lives in and therefore the one that most impacts how much it will expand or shrink after installation.

Laminate Flooring Types

Different types of laminate flooring come with varying acclimation guidelines. When considering how long does laminate flooring need to acclimate, remember that the type of laminate you choose will influence this timeline. Some of the most popular laminate flooring types along with their associated acclimation timeframes are as follows:

• Standard Laminate Flooring - This is the type of laminate flooring most consumers select and usually takes around 48 hours to acclimate. Some popular brands include Pergo, Shaw, and TrafficMASTER.
• Rigid Core Laminate Flooring - When compared to standard laminate, rigid core laminate is more stable and may only need 24 - 48 hours. Some popular brands include Mohawk SolidTech and LifeProof.
• High-Moisture-Resistant Laminate Flooring - This variety of laminate is made to better withstand moisture, though it may need to acclimate for 72 hours. Examples include Pergo Outlast and AquaGuard.

Rigid core laminate requires only 24 to 48 hours and is more sturdy than regular laminate

Condition of the Subfloor

Any acclimation issues may be related to the condition of the subfloor. Damp, uneven, or damaged subfloors may affect laminate performance, and such conditions may need to be corrected before installation.

• Wood Subfloors - Before installing laminate flooring, wood subfloors need to be dry, level, and undamaged, which can be tested using a moisture meter. Moisture content should be less than 12% prior to installation.
• Concrete Subfloors - Before installing laminate flooring, concrete subfloors also need to be dry and level, and moisture content should be less than 4.5%. This can be tested using a calcium chloride test.

Step-by-Step Guide to Acclimating Laminate Flooring

Here's how to acclimate laminate flooring now that you understand its importance and the factors that affect it.

Step 1: Room Preparation

Before flooring can be delivered, there are several preparations that must be completed in the room:

• Stabilize the climate: Turn on your HVAC system or fans for 24 hours in advance to ensure the temperature and humidity are within the desired parameters.
• Remove obstacles: Take out all furniture and other items so that the flooring boxes will have proper airflow.
• Inspect the subfloor: Make sure there are no hazards including moisture, damage, or uneven areas. Any issues must be addressed prior to your floor installation.

Step 2: Examine the Flooring Upon Arrival

Once your flooring has arrived, examining the material is important to ensure that it is in good condition and free of damage. Here is what to look for:

• Examine the Boxes: All boxes need to be dry with no crushed packaging and no damage. If the boxes are damaged in any way, do not accept the shipment, and request a replacement.
• Open Random Boxes: Select a couple of boxes randomly to see if the planks have any of the following issues: warping, bent edges, or damage. If the click-lock joints do not connect properly and look misaligned, then there is an issue that needs to be resolved.
• Evaluate the Planks: Ensure every box contains planks that are consistent throughout. If there is a noticeable difference in the planks, contact the manufacturer for a replacement.

Step 3: Store the Flooring for Acclimation

After inspecting the flooring and confirming its condition, you may begin with acclimation. Here's how to store the flooring:

• Place the boxes in the installation room - The flooring must acclimate in the same room it will be installed in. Refrain from storing the boxes in garages, basements, or outdoor areas since those locations may have different humidity and temperature levels.
• Properly stack the boxes - To avoid crushing, stack boxes no more than 3 high. Leave a gap of 10 to 15 centimeters (4 to 6 inches) between the stacks and the walls to ensure airflow.
• Avoid pyramid stacking - Do not stack the boxes in a pyramid shape, as this can cause uneven pressure and affect the acclimation process.
• Open the boxes (when necessary): Usually, boxes can remain sealed for the duration of the acclimation period, but if the room has humidity higher than 60%, open half of the boxes so that the flooring can release some moisture. Conversely, if the humidity is lower than 30%, you should open all of the boxes to avoid over-drying the flooring.

People tend to rush this step, but it is the step that prevents most potential long-term problems. If you are asking yourself, "Does laminate flooring need to acclimate?" this step answers that question in practice—proper storage during acclimation makes all the difference. 

Step 4: Waiting Period and Testing before Installation

After the appropriate amount of time has elapsed during acclimation, the flooring must be tested before it can be permanently installed.

• Plank Stability Test: Take one plank and place it on the subfloor for 15 minutes. If the plank is flat and has no gaps, it is ready to be installed. If the plank has warped or is gapped, you must wait an additional 24 hours before testing again.
• Click-Lock Test - Join two planks and tap them lightly using a rubber mallet. If the planks lock securely and don't pop apart, they are ready for installation. If the planks pop apart, wait another 24 hours and test again.

Step 5: Installing the Flooring

With the planks properly acclimated and the stability tests completed, you may proceed to installation. The following are tips to help ensure success:

• Use a Moisture Barrier Underlayment - A moisture barrier underlayment can help protect the laminate flooring from subfloor moisture and adds some sound insulation.
• Leave Expansion Gaps - Unlike most solid surface floors, laminate flooring is designed to float and can expand and contract with changes in humidity. During your installation, it is best practice to leave an expansion gap of 8 to 10 mm (3/8 to 1/2 inch) around the perimeters of the room. Gap spacers can be used to help maintain the gap during installation.
• Stagger the End Joints - When installing your laminate flooring, it is best practice to stagger the end joints by at least 30 cm (12 inches). This will promote a more natural and stable appearance overall.
• Use the Correct Tools - Use a tapping block and pull bar to ensure that the joints of your planks fit together snugly without damaging the click-lock joints.

To get rid of all the dirt and debris on the floor, run a vacuum cleaner over the area once a day

Common Acclimation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistakes can happen during the acclimation process. Here are a few of the most common mistakes:

Mistake 1: Acclimating in the Wrong Location

A common acclimation mistake is doing the acclimation process in an area that does not have the same conditions as the installation room. For instance, storing your boxes in a garage, basement, or outside can expose the laminate planks to different humidity and temperature levels which can compromise the performance of the laminate floor after it is installed.

How to Avoid It: Always acclimate your flooring in the room where it will be installed. This way the planks adjust to the conditions where they will be performing, ensuring proper performance after installation.

Mistake 2: Stacking Boxes Too High

Stacking boxes too high can prevent proper airflow around the planks, which can affect the acclimation process. This is particularly problematic in humid environments, where the planks need to release excess moisture.

How to Avoid It: Maintain proper airflow by stacking the boxes no more than three high and leaving gaps between stacks. This ensures even acclimation of all planks.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the Subfloor

The performance of the laminate flooring is significantly influenced by the condition of your subfloor. If the subfloor is wet, uneven, or damaged, it can cause the laminate to warp, buckle, or gap after installation.

How to Avoid It: Always check your subfloor for any issues prior to acclimating the flooring. Wood subfloors should have moisture content lower than 12 percent; check with a moisture meter. Concrete subfloors should have a moisture content lower than 4.5 percent and should be tested with a calcium chloride test.

Mistake 4: Installing Immediately After Opening the Boxes

Some people think that the planks are ready to install as soon as they are unboxed. That's a risky assumption, as even if the planks feel stable, they may not have fully acclimated to the conditions in your room.

How to Avoid It: Manufacturers include acclimation periods for a reason. Even if the planks feel ready to install, you should follow the recommended acclimation period to ensure they adjust to the conditions in your room before installation.

Mistake 5: Skipping Expansion Gaps

If you install the planks flush against the walls, laminate flooring can buckle or warp as it adjusts to room conditions. Leaving space for expansion and contraction is critical to the performance of the flooring.

How to Avoid It: Always leave an expansion gap of 8 to 10 millimeters (3/8 to 1/2 inch) around the edges of your room. You can use spacers to maintain the gap during installation and cover it with baseboards or molding after installation.

As you think through the details of your flooring installation, it's good to keep the rationale behind the flooring acclimation process in mind. Why does laminate flooring need to acclimate? The core of the laminate flooring planks can gain or lose moisture. Even small changes in moisture can cause the flooring planks to shift, resulting in gaps or other visual defects when the planks are locked into place.

To prevent scratching the surface, you'll need a decent mop with a non-abrasive cleaning head

Final Takeaway

If you remember anything from this guide, remember this: acclimation may be a minor inconvenience, but it can save you from costly repairs down the line. Why does laminate flooring need to acclimate? Because it allows the flooring to adjust to the room conditions before the planks are locked together, reducing the risk of buckling, gapping, warping, and click-lock failure.

Your floor should never appear boring or unclean as long as you vacuum and mop it frequently

Your new flooring is an investment worth protecting. Take the additional 2-3 days to do it correctly and enjoy your investment for decades to come.