Why do renovation materials need acclimation time?

Renovation materials need acclimation time to adjust to your home's specific temperature and humidity conditions, preventing warping, cracking, gaps, and installation failures after the project is complete.

Most building materials are hygroscopic, meaning they naturally absorb and release moisture from the surrounding air. When materials are stored in warehouses, transported in trucks, or kept in different climate conditions than your home, they contain different moisture levels than what they'll experience once installed. Without proper acclimation, materials will continue expanding or contracting after installation, leading to costly problems.

Hardwood flooring is the most critical example - it should acclimate for 3-7 days in the room where it'll be installed. Toronto's climate varies dramatically from humid summers to dry winters, and your home's interior humidity levels differ significantly from storage conditions. Installing flooring that hasn't acclimated can result in gaps during winter months or buckling during humid summer periods. The Ontario Building Code doesn't mandate acclimation periods, but manufacturers' warranties often require it.

Drywall and lumber also benefit from acclimation, especially during Toronto's winter months when materials may be delivered frozen or very cold. Cold drywall can crack when compound is applied, and lumber that's significantly colder or more humid than your home will continue moving after installation, potentially causing nail pops, cracks, or joint separation.

Tile and stone materials need temperature acclimation more than moisture adjustment. Installing cold tiles with adhesive in a warm room can cause bonding issues, while extreme temperature differences can affect the curing process of grouts and adhesives.

Professional contractors in the GTA typically deliver materials 24-72 hours before installation, storing them in the actual rooms where they'll be used. This is especially important during Toronto's temperature extremes - materials delivered in January at -20°C need time to gradually warm to your home's 20°C interior temperature.

For DIY projects, plan material delivery well ahead of your installation timeline. Store materials in the installation area with proper air circulation, and maintain your home's normal temperature and humidity levels during acclimation. This small investment in time prevents major headaches and ensures your renovation materials perform as intended for years to come.