Surface Preparation & Safety Procedures Flashcards
7 cards from real CFI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Surface Preparation & Safety Procedures flashcards as text
When using a kneeboard while installing flooring, its primary safety and ergonomic purpose is to:
Answer: Distribute the installer's weight and protect knee joints
Kneeboards redistribute body weight over a larger area, reducing pressure on joints and preventing repetitive stress injuries.
A concrete slab shows a map-cracking pattern across its entire surface. Before installing flooring, the installer should:
Answer: Evaluate crack depth and stability, then repair with appropriate filler or overlay
Map cracking must be assessed for depth and movement; active cracks require a flexible repair while stable cracks can use rigid filler.
What is the minimum recommended acclimation period for solid hardwood flooring in a climate-controlled environment?
Answer: 3–5 days
NWFA recommends acclimating solid hardwood for a minimum of 3–5 days, or until it reaches equilibrium with the site's temperature and humidity.
Which test method measures the in situ relative humidity of a concrete slab using probes embedded in drilled holes?
Answer: In situ relative humidity probe (ASTM F2170)
ASTM F2170 uses probes inserted at 40% slab depth to measure internal RH, providing more accurate moisture data than surface tests.
When installing flooring in a commercial space with an occupied adjacent area, which safety practice is mandatory?
Answer: Post warning signs and barricade the work zone
OSHA and common safety practice require physical barricades and posted warning signs to protect non-workers from job site hazards.
A gypsum-based underlayment has been used as a subfloor. What must the installer verify before applying flooring adhesive?
Answer: That the compressive strength meets the adhesive manufacturer's requirement (typically 2,500 PSI minimum)
Gypsum underlayments vary widely in strength; most adhesive manufacturers require a minimum 2,500 PSI compressive strength to prevent bond failure.
What is the purpose of a 'float coat' or skim coat applied before installing tile on a mortar bed?
Answer: To create a smooth, flat, and level bonding surface
A skim or float coat evens out the mortar bed surface to provide the flat plane needed for proper tile adhesion and alignment.