How Long Should Hardwood Flooring Acclimate in Winter
Planning to install hardwood flooring this winter? If you're in Lenexa, KS or anywhere in the Kansas City area, don’t skip the most important first step acclimating your hardwood floors. Cold weather changes everything, especially how wood responds to indoor humidity and temperature.
At Tyrer Wholesale Floor Covering, we’ve seen firsthand how improper acclimation leads to warped boards, separated seams, and expensive fixes. This post breaks down how long hardwood floors need to acclimate in winter, why it matters in our local climate, and how to do it right.
Why Acclimation Is Critical for Winter Flooring Installations
Hardwood is a natural product, and like any organic material, it reacts to its environment. In winter, indoor air becomes dry due to heating systems. That lack of moisture causes hardwood to contract. Installing wood floors without proper acclimation can lead to:
Gaps between planks
Buckling or cupping
Cracking along edges
Premature wear and tear
The National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) recommends acclimating wood to match indoor living conditions before installation. You can view their full guidelines on installation best practices.
How Long Should Hardwood Floors Acclimate in Winter?
Typical acclimation time: 3 to 10 days, depending on the type of hardwood and your home’s indoor environment.
However, winter conditions in Lenexa, KS may extend that timeframe. Here's why:
Indoor heating dries the air significantly
Fluctuations in outdoor temperature impact indoor humidity
Subfloors (especially concrete) retain cold and moisture
Recommended Acclimation Time by Wood Type
Before installation, use a wood moisture meter to ensure that the flooring and subfloor moisture content are within 4 percent of each other. Tyrer Wholesale Floor Covering can help you with moisture testing tools or refer you to local professionals.
Need help finding flooring products suitable for winter? Explore our full range of hardwood flooring in Lenexa, KS.
How to Prepare Your Home for Proper Acclimation
Acclimation isn’t just about the wood it’s about creating a consistent indoor environment. Here’s how to do it right:
Set and Maintain Indoor Climate Conditions
Temperature: 60°F to 75°F
Humidity: 35% to 55%
HVAC should be running for at least 5 days before acclimation
Avoid storing flooring in garages, basements, or unheated areas
Proper Storage of Hardwood
Lay boxes flat, unopened, and off the ground
Keep them in the same room or level where they’ll be installed
Allow air circulation by opening box ends or removing plastic wrapping
Use spacers under flooring bundles to prevent contact with cold subfloors
Why Local Climate in Lenexa, KS Impacts Acclimation
Kansas winters are dry and cold, with indoor humidity levels often falling below recommended levels for wood flooring. These environmental conditions create challenges unique to our region.
Specific Concerns in the Lenexa Area
Low indoor humidity (sometimes under 30%)
Drastic outdoor temperature swings
Moisture retention in basements or slab foundations
Homes with fireplaces or wood stoves that further reduce moisture
Local knowledge matters. Tyrer Wholesale Floor Covering understands how Kansas homes behave in winter, and we stock products specifically suited to our climate. Our flooring experts can recommend species and finishes that perform well here.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Acclimating Hardwood
Even experienced installers can overlook critical steps during winter. Avoid these errors:
Storing flooring in a garage or cold space
Installing flooring immediately after delivery
Neglecting to monitor humidity and temperature
Assuming engineered wood doesn't need acclimation
Not checking subfloor moisture content
A short delay in installation can prevent long-term problems. For more on subfloor prep and installation techniques, read this professional guide from Wood Floor Business.
Tips from Tyrer Wholesale Floor Covering: Best Practices for Winter Installations
To ensure your hardwood installation goes smoothly, here’s what we recommend:
Acclimate for at least 7 days in winter
Use a calibrated moisture meter to verify readiness
Keep your indoor air moisture stable throughout the project
Choose engineered hardwood if conditions are inconsistent
Consult a local flooring expert before purchasing
Visit our flooring installation services page to learn how we handle cold-weather projects and prevent costly issues.
Why Choose Tyrer Wholesale Floor Covering in Lenexa, KS?
At Tyrer Wholesale Floor Covering, we’ve built our reputation on knowledge, customer service, and product reliability. Winter installations can be tricky but our team knows how to get it right.
What You’ll Get With Us:
Extensive range of hardwood products for every budget
Local expertise for winter acclimation and installation
Wholesale pricing on premium brands
Moisture testing and onsite evaluations available
Friendly staff ready to answer all your questions
We’re not just another flooring store in Lenexa—we’re your partners from selection to installation.
FAQs: Winter Hardwood Acclimation
Do all types of hardwood need the same acclimation time?
No. Solid hardwood generally needs more time than engineered wood. Exotic species may require longer due to density and oil content.
Can I acclimate hardwood flooring faster using heat or fans?
Artificial acceleration can lead to uneven drying. It’s best to maintain stable indoor conditions rather than force drying.
Is it okay to acclimate hardwood in my garage?
No. Garages aren’t climate-controlled, and the temperature difference can damage the wood before installation.
What should the moisture difference be between subfloor and hardwood?
Aim for a difference of less than 4%. Use a moisture meter to verify before beginning installation.
Can Tyrer Wholesale test moisture levels for me?
Yes. We offer moisture testing and tools, and can connect you with certified local installers.
Ready to Get Started? Request Your Free Quote Today
If you’re planning to install hardwood flooring this winter, don’t leave acclimation to guesswork. Tyrer Wholesale Floor Covering in Lenexa, KS offers everything you need from quality flooring to expert advice on winter installations.
Visit us or request your free quote today at https://tyrerwholesale.com/contact.
