I've always heard wood flooring should acclimate prior to installation but was recently told by a company it's not really necessary for solid oak like some other materials. They claim since the material is nailed down so securely and that it has been sitting in a climate controlled environment prior to arrival at my house the extra time onsite isn't necessary.

They are proposing to install the flooring same day then let it acclimate prior to scraping & staining.

Anyone have experience (good or bad) doing it this way rather than sitting the materials in the house for days/weeks before installation? They appear to be a reputable company so would think there would be negative reviews out there is not appropriate method.

I'm not a flooring expert but I would never agree to skip over the acclimation process. Lots of good info on this page.

https://www.valentiflooring.com/blog/hardwood-flooring-acclimation-what-is-it-and-how-long-does-it-take

Quote:

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Having them sit inside your house for a few days is worth the peace of mind even if they 'think' it's not necessary.

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I wouldn't want a bunch of random dudes just hanging around in my house for a few days...oh you mean the wood.

Don't skip. Ask for the manufacturer installation instructions, I guarantee it's a warranty requirement. I'm not sure why any contractor would open themselves up to liability by recommending you skip, even if it may end up not being necessary.

I'd also double check the underlayment/vapor barrier recommendations from the manufacturer against what your contractor is planning.

Don't fall for it. They are using that as an excuse to get paid for the installation rather than waiting for the acclamation period to finish.

Don't ever accelerate acclimating your wood before it's put in.

mts6175 said:

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Don't fall for it. They are using that as an excuse to get paid for the installation rather than waiting for the acclamation period to finish.

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???

They're getting paid regardless.

Sounds like they're just trying to squeeze in his work between other jobs and not have to come back to his house after dropping off the wood.

Agree with wise
aggiepaintrain
and the rare times got to witness such in Aggieland
reif.conc foundation then mastic then treated plywood then moisture barrier/bldg.paper then oak flooring
Clouse Floors from HOU
acclimated it as aggiepaintrain described it

re: also
https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/installing-wood-flooring-over-concrete/

Appreciate all the feedback…. I expressed my concern about the process and they said no problem we'll drop off materials to acclimate prior to installation so we should be good to go.