Were you aware that the wood used for the installation of your hardwood flooring has to acclimate before installation? What is acclimation?
>> ac·cli·ma·tion the process or result of becoming accustomed to a new climate or to new conditions
So, what does this mean to you or for you? It means that for a minimum of 72 hours prior to installation the wood that will be utilized for your flooring will need to sit inside your home, at a climate-controlled temperature. Not in your garage, not in your driveway; in your home, in the location where the installation will be taking place. The ideal moisture content for the best results of hardwood flooring installation is around 35-55% humidity and a temperature range of 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help so that the natural product will expand and contract properly, to eliminate extensive cracking or gaping.
Does your home sit on a crawl space? If the answer is yes to this question, we highly recommend placing a dehumidifier underneath your home, in this space, to keep the climate and humidity controlled. It can take up to a year for your new hardwoods to expand and contract, so it’s essential to keep your home at a steady climate, and controlled humidity level even post installation.
Failure to properly acclimate hardwood flooring, as mentioned, may compromise the integrity of your flooring. Extensive cracks, gaps, warping cupping and even buckling after the installation are common occurrences that take place without that proper acclimation timing. 72 hours is the absolute minimum, however, it’s best to leave it to your contractor to read moisture readings and access the job site before beginning any installation, as should the flooring not acclimate properly, you also run the risk of voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.
When you take the time to properly prepare the job site location and products to assure that the flooring is acclimated correctly you will never have a problem with your hardwoods!
Interested in learning more about the process or receiving a custom quote for your home in the Metro Atlanta area? Give us a call at
770-862-3716 or
send us an email directly at
verreflooring@gmail.com, and we’d be happy to talk with you!
