CFI Adhesives, Fasteners & Transition Systems 3

Question 1

What is the purpose of 'back-buttering' large-format tiles during installation?

Accepted Answer

To ensure full mortar coverage on the tile back and prevent hollow spots

Answer

Back-buttering applies additional thin-set to the tile back to fill voids and ensure 95% or greater mortar contact required for large-format tiles.

Question 2

How long should most water-based flooring adhesives cure before allowing heavy rolling traffic on a commercial installation?

Accepted Answer

24–72 hours depending on manufacturer instructions

Answer

Most water-based adhesives require 24–72 hours of cure time before heavy rolling loads are introduced to prevent adhesive shear failure.

Question 3

What type of fastener is used to attach wood flooring to a concrete subfloor without adhesive?

Accepted Answer

Concrete screw or powder-actuated fastener

Answer

Concrete screws (e.g., Tapcon) or powder-actuated fasteners (e.g., Ramset) are used to mechanically attach wood sleepers or nailer strips to concrete for a nail-down installation.

Question 4

When installing a floating floor, why must transition strips never be glued to the floating floor itself?

Accepted Answer

Gluing restricts the floor's movement and can cause buckling or gaps

Answer

Floating floors must be free to expand and contract; gluing transitions to the floor prevents this movement and causes structural failure.

Question 5

Which type of transition piece is used where a floating floor meets a sliding door track?

Accepted Answer

End cap or square-nose molding

Answer

An end cap or square-nose molding terminates the flooring edge cleanly at a door track without needing to bridge to another floor surface.

CFI - Flooring Installation and Maintenance Certification Practice Test

CFI - Flooring Installation and Maintenance Certification Practice Test

CFI Adhesives, Fasteners & Transition Systems 3