Yes, your wood flooring should be acclimated to the environment it will be installed in. The NWFA recommends 7-10 days but this can vary depending on location and site conditions. For a map of recommended acclimation period, please refer to the map on page 36 of the National Wood Flooring Installation Guide. We would also defer to your local installers expertise.
Acclimating wood flooring allows the material to adjust to the temperature and humidity conditions of your home before installation. Because wood is a natural product, it expands and contracts with changes in moisture. If it’s not properly acclimated, the flooring may warp, gap, or buckle after it’s installed. Taking the time to acclimate the wood—typically by letting it sit in the installation space for several days—helps ensure a stable, long-lasting floor with minimal movement over time.
