Moncton, NB
Luxury vinyl flooring is known for its durability, style, and ease of installation. But before you tear open those boxes and start laying planks, you might ask yourself, “Do I really need to let this flooring acclimate first?” That’s a smart question that could save you from future issues. If you’re in Colorado, where temperature and humidity levels shift throughout the seasons, acclimation could make a big difference in your long-term flooring performance.
Let’s break it all down, so you can start your project with total confidence.
What is flooring acclimation?
Acclimation is the process of letting your flooring adjust to the temperature and humidity of the room in which it will be installed. Even though luxury vinyl flooring is more stable than natural wood, it still expands and contracts slightly with environmental changes.
You might think vinyl is completely waterproof and synthetic, so it shouldn’t matter. But the truth is, vinyl planks (especially those with rigid cores like SPC or WPC) can still warp or separate if they go from a freezing garage to a heated living room too quickly.
The acclimation process helps the flooring settle before installation, reducing the chance of buckling, gapping, or lifting later.
Is acclimation always required?
Here’s where it gets a little more nuanced. Some LVP and LVT flooring products say “no acclimation necessary” on the packaging. And that can be true if your environment is already within the manufacturer’s ideal conditions. But in Loveland, CO, temperatures can swing fast, especially in the spring and fall. If your flooring has been sitting in a cold delivery truck or in a warehouse, it’s risky to skip acclimation.
Manufacturers often recommend letting luxury vinyl flooring sit in the room where it will be installed for 24 to 48 hours. This gives it a chance to adjust and ensures a more secure, lasting installation.
When acclimation is a must
You should definitely acclimate LVP and LVT flooring in these situations:
- The product was delivered during extreme heat or cold
- The boxes were stored in an unheated or uncooled space (like a garage or shed)
- The room where the flooring will be installed is significantly warmer or cooler than where it was stored
- You live in a climate with big humidity shifts, like Northern Colorado
In any of these cases, skipping acclimation could void your warranty. That alone is a good reason to be cautious.
How to acclimate luxury vinyl flooring the right way
It’s not complicated, but there are a few key steps:
1. Bring the boxes into the installation room and lay them flat, stacking them no more than three high.2. Keep the room at a stable temperature, ideally between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Let the flooring sit undisturbed for at least 24 hours, though 48 hours is safer if there were big temperature differences.
4. Avoid opening the boxes too early. Letting air in before the acclimation is done can throw off the process.
5. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Always. They know their product best.
By taking these steps, you give the planks time to adjust and settle, which makes installation smoother and results more reliable.
Why acclimation matters in Colorado homes
Loveland and the surrounding areas have a unique climate. Summer days are hot and dry, while winter can bring cold snaps and snow. These seasonal changes can mess with flooring materials, especially in homes with fluctuating indoor temperatures.
LVP and LVT flooring may be tough, but they're not immune to the effects of expansion and contraction. Proper acclimation is a simple way to help your flooring stay in place, avoid damage, and look great for years.
If you're investing in high-quality luxury vinyl flooring, you want to make sure it’s installed right the first time. That starts before the first plank is even laid.
Do professionals handle acclimation for you?
If you’re hiring professional installers, they usually factor acclimation into the job timeline. Still, it’s smart to ask. A quality flooring team will know how important this step is, especially in a variable climate like Loveland’s.
Looking for an experienced team to install luxury vinyl flooring the right way? Our flooring installation services are designed to deliver long-lasting results you can trust.
Your home for high-quality LVT and LVP flooring in Loveland, CO
Acclimating your luxury vinyl flooring might feel like a delay, but it's a smart step that helps protect your investment. Skipping it could lead to problems that show up weeks or months later. With Colorado’s changing temperatures, it’s just not worth the risk.
If you have questions about your flooring project or want help choosing a product that fits your lifestyle, Schmidt Custom Floors is here to help. Get in touch with us today! Our showroom in Loveland, CO, serves Loveland, Fort Collins, Windsor, Boulder, and Estes Park, CO.
