Transition & Trim Installation 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 Transition & Trim Installation flashcards as text
When installing a T-molding between two hard-surface floors at the same height, what minimum expansion gap should be maintained on each side of the track?
Answer: 1/4 inch
A 1/4-inch expansion gap on each side of the T-molding track allows the flooring to expand and contract without buckling.
Which transition molding is specifically designed to connect a hardwood floor to a lower-pile carpet?
Answer: Reducer
A reducer transitions between two floors of different heights, such as hardwood stepping down to carpet.
A stair nosing is required to overhang the stair tread edge by what typical measurement to meet safety standards?
Answer: 3/4 to 1-1/4 inches
Stair nosings must overhang the riser by 3/4 to 1-1/4 inches to provide adequate toe clearance and meet IBC/IRC safety requirements.
When a floating floor transitions to a sliding glass door track, which trim piece is most appropriate?
Answer: Threshold
A threshold is used at exterior door openings and sliding door tracks to bridge the gap between the flooring and the door assembly.
Which adhesive application method is recommended when gluing a metal transition track directly to a concrete subfloor?
Answer: Apply adhesive in a continuous bead along the center of the track channel
Applying adhesive in a continuous bead along the center channel of the track ensures a secure bond while allowing slight adjustment before the adhesive sets.
What is the primary purpose of a carpet-to-tile transition strip (also called a carpet bar or seam binder)?
Answer: To cover and protect the raw carpet edge while providing a smooth height transition
A carpet bar secures and conceals the exposed carpet edge while creating a smooth, finished transition to the adjacent tile surface.
When installing a snap-in T-molding over a laminate floor, at what stage of the installation should the track be secured?
Answer: Before laying any flooring planks
The T-molding track must be fastened to the subfloor before the surrounding planks are laid so that the correct expansion gaps can be maintained on both sides.