How Long Does Laminate Need to Acclimate

by Editorial Staff | Updated on September 22nd, 2023

When it comes to home improvement, installing laminate flooring is a top choice for many. Not only is it durable and relatively easy to maintain, but it also offers a versatile look that can fit various interior designs. However, there’s an essential step many overlook: acclimating the laminate to your home’s environment. Understanding how long laminate needs to acclimate can save you a lot of trouble down the line, including issues like warping, shrinking, and buckling. Here’s your comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about the acclimation process.

How Long Does Laminate Need to Acclimate?

The rule of thumb for most laminate flooring is to let it acclimate for at least 48 hours in the room where it will be installed. During this period, the laminate adjusts to the room’s temperature and humidity. Taking this step is crucial for the laminate’s long-term durability, as it helps prevent the material from contracting or expanding after installation, which can lead to problems like warping and gaps.

The Importance of Acclimating Laminate Flooring

You might question the necessity of this acclimation period. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s an absolute must. When laminate flooring is not given time to adjust to the new environmental conditions, it can become prone to warping and expansion or contraction. By keeping the laminate in the room where it will be installed for the acclimation period, you allow it to adjust to its new environment, thereby preventing issues that may arise after the flooring is set into place.

What Risks Are You Taking by Skipping Acclimation?

Skimping on the acclimation process might seem tempting, but it comes with significant risks. If the laminate hasn’t adjusted to your home’s specific conditions, you could end up with flooring that buckles, warps, or even gaps at the seams. This will not only look unattractive but may also incur additional costs for repair or replacement.

How to Acclimate Laminate Flooring Effectively

When it comes to proper acclimation, there are some best practices to consider. First and foremost, place the laminate flooring in the installation room, preferably in the center and away from walls to reduce moisture interference. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, as these can offer specific insights into the acclimation times best suited for the product you’ve purchased.

Monitoring Room Conditions for Laminate Acclimation

It’s not just about placing the laminate in a room and forgetting about it. You should aim for a room temperature between 64 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit and a humidity level between 25% and 75%. To make sure you’re hitting these targets, consider investing in a thermometer and humidity monitor. If needed, consult with an HVAC technician to ensure your home’s conditions are right for laminate flooring.

Timing is Everything: When to Install Laminate Flooring

While the standard acclimation period is 48 hours, conditions such as extreme temperatures may require an extended time frame—up to 72 or even 96 hours. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance on this. Additionally, avoid installing laminate in rooms that have been recently painted or plastered, as the extra humidity could affect your flooring.

Warning Signs of Improper Acclimation

Watch out for signs that your laminate isn’t acclimating well. If the flooring material starts to buckle, or warp, or if there’s excessive movement that results in creaking or popping sounds, these could be indications that the laminate hasn’t properly adjusted to your home’s environmental conditions.

Consequences of Incorrect Installation

Installing laminate without proper acclimation is a recipe for problems. The planks may contract or expand after being laid down, which could create unsightly gaps or even cause the flooring to become damaged. It’s a shortcut you don’t want to take, as it could potentially result in having to replace your entire floor.

When to Place Furniture on Your New Laminate

While laminate floors are indeed durable, it’s advisable to allow at least 24 hours after installation before walking on them. This waiting period also applies to moving furniture back into the room, giving the floor adequate time to settle.

Tips to Speed Up the Acclimation Process

Though the best way to acclimate laminate floors is slowly, you can expedite the process by manipulating the room’s temperature and humidity levels through your HVAC system. Another trick is to unbox the laminate and cross-stack it, which increases the surface area exposed to the room’s atmosphere, thereby speeding up acclimation.

By taking the time to understand and follow laminate acclimation guidelines, you can ensure a more durable and longer-lasting floor. Neglecting this crucial step might save you time in the short term, but it’s likely to cost you more in the long run.

Editorial Staff

Our writers, editors, content managers, and SEO specialist. We all take part in crafting amazing articles. We spend hours ensuring that each article is based on facts, researched, and thorough. You'll never want to click the back button to look for more answers other than here!