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 year-round, while others experience humid and dry seasons. There are lots of variations, and each type affects the flooring material differently. Installers and contractors should acclimate the material before they install it 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 materials will absorb moisture in the air, causing them to swell and expand. If installers lay the material while it is still swollen and fail to acclimate it to drier conditions, it will shrink and leave large gaps. Conversely, if installers place dry, compact material in a more humid environment, it will expand and cause problems.
Flooring installers should always consult with the manufacturer’s recommendation about acclimating the product. Some types of material do not require much time to acclimate. Other types require a specific amount of time. This ensures the best installation. It also helps achieve the best possible final product.
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