When it comes to the final location of a flooring surface, so much depends on the environmental conditions for that space. Some places are full of moisture all year round while others range between humid seasons and dry seasons. There are lots of variations, and each type affects the flooring material differently. It’s ideal for installers and contractors to get the material acclimated before setting it down permanently.
Acclimating is the process of exposing flooring material to the environment that it will be in so that it can make internal adjustments for moisture or dryness. For example, laminate and hardwood flooring material will absorb moisture in the air, causing it to swell and expand. If it were laid down while swollen and without acclimating to the dryer conditions of the final location, it will shrink up and leave big gaps behind. Conversely if the material is dry and compact, but is then placed in a more humid environment, it will expand and cause lots of problems.
Flooring installers should always consult with the manufacturer’s recommendation about acclimating the product. While some types of material don’t require much time to acclimate, other types require a specific amount in order to guarantee the best installation and the very best final product.
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