Installing luxury vinyl flooring sounds like a straightforward process, right? Well, there’s one step you can’t skip if you want the best results—acclimation. You might be thinking, "Does luxury vinyl flooring really need to be acclimated?" The answer is a solid yes, and it’s more important than you might realize. Let’s break it down.
What is acclimation, anyway?
Acclimation is when you give your flooring time to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity before installing it. Luxury vinyl plank flooring, just like wood or laminate, expands and contracts with changes in the environment. If you don’t acclimate it, you could end up with flooring that buckles, gaps, or just doesn’t sit right. Trust me, taking this step will save you headaches down the line.
Why acclimation matters
Picture this: You install your beautiful new luxury vinyl floors right after they’ve been delivered, only to find that a few days later, they’ve shifted or started buckling. Why? Because they didn’t get the chance to settle into the room’s climate. Luxury vinyl flooring reacts to temperature and humidity just like other materials, and if it’s installed too soon, it won’t be fully prepared for the conditions of your home. Acclimating lets the flooring adjust and ensures a smoother, longer-lasting installation.
How to acclimate your LVP flooring
Alright, so how do you do it? Easy. When your flooring arrives, open the boxes and spread the planks or tiles out in the room where they’ll be installed. Let them sit there for at least 48 hours before you start the installation process. This gives the vinyl time to adjust to the room’s temperature and humidity, so it’s in perfect condition when you lay it down. Keep the room at a stable temperature—usually between 65°F and 85°F—and make sure the humidity levels are normal. Your flooring will thank you later.
Skipping acclimation? think again
Skipping acclimation might seem tempting if you’re eager to get your luxury vinyl floors installed, but it’s a shortcut you don’t want to take. Without it, you could face problems like warping or gaps that can’t be easily fixed. Acclimating LVP flooring is a simple step, but it makes a world of difference.
Your experts on luxury vinyl plank flooring in Arlington, TX
Don't rush the process to get the most out of your luxury vinyl flooring. Give it time to adjust to your home’s conditions. It might take a couple of days, but it’s worth it for a smooth installation and long-lasting results. Our showroom in Arlington, TX, serves Arlington, Mansfield, Dallas, and Fort Worth, TX. Reach out to All Pro Floors today!
