Does Luxury Vinyl Flooring Expand?

Luxury Vinyl Flooring: Expansion, Acclimation, and Why It Matters for Your Home

Luxury vinyl flooring is one of the most durable, stylish, and versatile flooring options available today. Whether you choose luxury vinyl plank (LVP) for its realistic wood-look appeal or luxury vinyl tile (LVT) for a sleek stone aesthetic, these floors offer exceptional beauty, water resistance, and longevity.

However, like all flooring materials, luxury vinyl expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. While the movement is minimal, understanding how to properly install and acclimate luxury vinyl can prevent issues like warping, cracking, or gaps over time.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• Why luxury vinyl expands and contracts
• How to properly acclimate your floors before installation
• The importance of professional installation for long-term durability

 

Does Luxury Vinyl Flooring Expand and Contract?

Yes, luxury vinyl flooring does expand and contract, especially when exposed to significant temperature fluctuations and humidity changes. While the movement is only a fraction of an inch, improper installation can lead to buckling, gaps, or lifted edges over time.
 

Why Does This Happen?

• Heat Exposure – If vinyl floors are installed in areas with direct sunlight or high indoor temperatures, they may expand slightly.
• Cold Conditions – During colder months, the material may contract, creating minor gaps if not properly installed.
• Humidity Levels – A significant change in humidity can affect vinyl flooring, especially in areas like basements, kitchens, or bathrooms.

To prevent warping, cracking, or bubbling, professional installers account for temperature-related movement and take steps to ensure long-term stability.


 

The Role of Acclimation in Luxury Vinyl Flooring Installation

Proper acclimation is one of the most important steps before installing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or tile (LVT). This process helps the flooring adjust to the temperature and humidity levels in your home, ensuring a smooth and stable installation.
 

What is Acclimation?

Acclimation is the process of allowing flooring materials to adjust to the environment before installation. Skipping this step can result in flooring that expands or contracts unexpectedly, leading to damage over time.
 

How to Acclimate Luxury Vinyl Flooring:

1. Leave Flooring in the Home for 24-72 Hours

• Before installation, let the vinyl flooring rest inside the room where it will be installed.
• Keep boxes flat and stacked evenly in a climate-controlled area.

2. Maintain Proper Room Temperature

• The ideal temperature range for LVP installation is between 65°F and 85°F.
• If your home is too cold or too hot, adjust the thermostat to stabilize the environment.

3. Check Humidity Levels

• Indoor humidity should be between 35% and 65% for optimal results.
• Use a dehumidifier or humidifier if needed to balance moisture levels.

Taking the time to acclimate your vinyl flooring ensures that it adjusts properly to your home’s environment, reducing the risk of warping, lifting, or separating after installation.


 

Why an Expansion Gap is Essential for Luxury Vinyl Flooring

To accommodate natural expansion and contraction, professional installers leave a small expansion gap around the perimeter of the room. This prevents buckling, cracking, or lifting over time.
 

What is an Expansion Gap?

• A ¼-inch gap is typically left around the walls, doorways, and fixed objects like cabinets.
• Baseboards or transition strips are used to cover the gap without restricting movement.

Where Are Expansion Gaps Needed?

• Basements & Below-Grade Rooms – Due to higher humidity, proper expansion gaps are critical.
• Large Rooms & Open Floor Plans – More space = greater potential for movement.
• Rooms with Direct Sunlight – Large windows or sunrooms can cause extra expansion, making gaps necessary.

A floating floor installation (click-lock method) also allows for expansion and contraction while maintaining a secure, seamless look.
 

Why Professional Installation Matters for Luxury Vinyl Flooring

While luxury vinyl flooring is often marketed as DIY-friendly, professional installation ensures long-term durability. Proper installation techniques help prevent costly issues, giving you a floor that lasts up to 20 years or more.
 

Benefits of Professional Installation:

• Ensures Proper Acclimation – Our team makes sure your floors adjust before installation.
• Accounts for Temperature & Humidity Changes – Expansion gaps and moisture barriers are installed correctly.
• Prevents Peaking, Buckling, or Warping – Floors stay secure and level, even in fluctuating conditions.
• Expert Handling of Subfloors – Any imperfections in the subfloor are addressed before installation begins.
• Guaranteed Warranty Coverage – Many manufacturers require professional installation to maintain warranty protection.

Even in flood conditions, luxury vinyl flooring offers exceptional durability, remaining resistant to moisture damage, mold, and mildew when properly installed.


 

Why Choose Express Flooring for Your Luxury Vinyl Needs?

At Express Flooring, we bring quality luxury vinyl flooring directly to your home with our shop-at-home service. We ensure that your flooring is acclimated, installed correctly, and built to last.
 

What Sets Us Apart?

• We Bring the Store to Your Door – Shop from the comfort of your home with our mobile showroom.
• Expert Design Consultants – We help you find the perfect flooring for your space and lifestyle.
• Professional Installation – Our skilled team ensures a seamless, worry-free installation.
• Serving Texas & Arizona – We proudly serve homeowners in Austin, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Round Rock, Leander, Manor, Buda, Cedar Park, Tucson, Marana, Vail, Oro Valley, Catalina Foothills, Sahuarita, Green Valley, Red Rock, and beyond.

 

Upgrade to Luxury Vinyl Flooring Today!

Luxury vinyl flooring offers exceptional beauty, durability, and moisture resistance—but proper installation is key to avoiding expansion-related issues. By acclimating your floors, leaving expansion gaps, and choosing professional installation, you can enjoy flawless flooring that lasts for decades.

Call Express Flooring today to schedule your FREE in-home consultation and find the perfect luxury vinyl flooring for your home. Let’s make your floors look as good as they should—without the stress!