CFI Tools & Equipment Flashcards

What is the primary function of a pneumatic flooring stapler (cleat nailer) in hardwood installation?

Answer: Blind-fastening hardwood planks through the tongue to the subfloor

A pneumatic cleat nailer drives cleats or staples through the tongue of hardwood planks at an angle, securing them to the subfloor while keeping fasteners hidden.

Which type of saw is best suited for making precise miter and bevel cuts in hardwood flooring transition pieces and moldings?

Answer: Compound miter saw

A compound miter saw makes accurate miter (left/right angle) and bevel (tilted) cuts in one pass, making it ideal for cutting moldings and transition strips.

A tapping block and rubber mallet are used during flooring installation to:

Answer: Gently seat tongue-and-groove planks together without damaging the edges

A tapping block protects the plank's edge while the rubber mallet drives planks snugly together, ensuring tight joints without chipping or crushing the tongue or groove.

What is the purpose of a floor scraper or floor stripper machine in a flooring project?

Answer: Removing old adhesive, tile, or floor coverings from the subfloor

A floor scraper or ride-on stripper machine is designed to remove existing floor coverings and adhesive residue efficiently from the subfloor prior to new installation.

Which tool is used to check whether a subfloor is flat (within 3/16 inch over 10 feet) before flooring installation?

Answer: Long straightedge or 10-foot floor-flatness gauge

A 10-foot straightedge is used to span the subfloor and identify high or low spots that exceed the 3/16-inch flatness tolerance required by most flooring manufacturers.

A notched trowel's primary purpose in flooring installation is to:

Answer: Spread adhesive at a controlled, uniform thickness over the subfloor

A notched trowel spreads adhesive into uniform ridges, ensuring consistent coverage thickness and proper bonding area for flooring materials.