How long should hardboard panels be conditioned to a space before installation as underlayment for resilient floor tile?

Conditioning hardboard panels before installation is essential for ensuring they acclimate to the conditions of the space, which can prevent issues like warping or improper adhesion. A period of 24 hours allows the hardboard to adjust to the temperature and humidity levels of the environment where it will be installed. This adjustment is particularly important for materials that may expand or contract based on environmental factors.

Proper conditioning helps to ensure that the installation goes smoothly and that the finished surface maintains its appearance and functionality over time. If panels are not given enough time to acclimate, the resulting stresses from improper sizing could lead to failure of the installed floor system. Hence, conditioning the panels for a full day before installation is the recommended practice.