You just picked out the perfect luxury vinyl plank flooring. The color, texture, and durability check all the boxes. But before you rush into installation, there’s something you need to know—acclimation. It’s one of those steps that seems unnecessary until problems show up. And trust me, they can. Warping, gaps, and even lifting planks can turn your dream floor into a headache. So, does luxury vinyl flooring need to acclimate? Let’s break it down.
What is acclimation, and why does it matter?
Acclimation is the process of letting flooring materials adjust to the temperature and humidity of their new home. LVP flooring is made of multiple layers, including PVC, which expands and contracts with changes in its climate. If you skip acclimation, the planks might shift after installation, leading to uneven floors or gaps. And fixing that? Not fun.
Do all LVP flooring products require acclimation?
Here’s where it gets interesting. Not all luxury vinyl plank flooring needs acclimation. Some manufacturers design their products to be “install-ready,” meaning you can lay them down immediately. However, many brands still recommend letting the planks sit in the room for at least 24 to 48 hours before installation. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines. If they require acclimation and you skip it, you could void the warranty.
How to acclimate luxury vinyl flooring the right way
If your flooring needs acclimation, do it right. Here’s what you need to do:
- Bring the boxes inside: Place them in the room where you’ll install the flooring. Keep them flat and stacked properly.
- Maintain room conditions: Keep the space at normal living temperatures—usually between 65°F and 85°F. Avoid extreme heat or cold.
- Let it sit: Give it at least 24 hours, but 48 is better. Some brands suggest up to 72 hours.
- Open the boxes? Maybe: Some experts say opening the boxes helps airflow, but others recommend keeping them sealed to prevent excessive exposure. Again, check the manufacturer’s instructions.
What happens if you skip acclimation?
You might get lucky and have no issues. But more often than not, skipping acclimation leads to problems like:
- Gaps between planks: The material contracts after installation, leaving spaces.
- Planks lifting or buckling: Expanding planks press against each other and lift.
- Seams separating: The adhesive doesn’t bond properly due to movement.
Fixing these issues can be time-consuming and costly. Worse, some of them may not be fixable without replacing sections of flooring.
Should you acclimate your LVP flooring?
Yes, if the manufacturer recommends it. Even if they don’t, a short acclimation period won’t hurt. It ensures your floor settles properly and lasts longer. Think of it as a small step that saves you from big problems down the road.
Before you start installing your luxury vinyl plank flooring, check the guidelines and give it time to adjust. A little patience now can mean a flawless, long-lasting floor later.
Massud & Son Floor Covering is your expert on LVP flooring in Central Falls, RI. Our showroom in Central Falls, RI, serves Lincoln, Cumberland, Smithfield, and Providence, RI.
