CFI Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CFI facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which flooring type typically uses a click-lock floating installation system? → Luxury vinyl plank
2. Which subfloor material is NOT acceptable as a direct substrate for most glue-down resilient flooring? → Particleboard
3. What tool measures the alkalinity (pH) of a concrete slab surface before glue-down flooring installation? → pH test kit or litmus paper with distilled water
4. What practice helps a CFI installer resolve a dispute with a customer over warranty coverage? → Refer to the written contract and manufacturer warranty documentation
5. Which safety rule should be followed when working in flooring areas with adhesives and sealants? → Ensure proper ventilation
6. When estimating carpet for a room with multiple pattern seams and cuts, what waste factor is most commonly added above net square footage? → 10–15%
7. Which carpet fiber type is known for its resistance to stains and easy maintenance? → Nylon
8. What is the purpose of expansion gaps in wood and laminate flooring installations? → Prevent buckling from expansion
9. What is the primary purpose of a floor roller during flooring installation? → Apply uniform adhesive pressure
10. Why is it important to wear kneepads during flooring installation? → Protect knees from strain
11. Under the ADA, what is the maximum pile height allowed for accessible carpet in commercial installations? → 1/2 inch
12. What must be done to a concrete subfloor before installing glue-down LVP if the surface has a release agent residue? → Mechanically grind or scarify the surface
13. Why is it important to maintain consistent room temperature for at least 48 hours before and after installing hardwood flooring? → To allow the wood to acclimate to the space's temperature and humidity conditions
14. How should a CFI installer handle a situation where a customer-supplied material is found to be defective before installation? → Notify the customer in writing before proceeding and document the defect
15. What is 'open time' in the context of flooring adhesives? → The period after application during which the adhesive can accept the flooring material
16. What is the primary concern with installing flooring over a wood subfloor that has visible black staining? → Possible mold or fungi that may indicate moisture damage
17. Which environmental rating system may require a flooring installer to document product VOC levels during a LEED-certified project? → LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)
18. Which RFCI document outlines recommended installation practices for resilient flooring? → Recommended Work Practices
19. Which issue occurs when wood flooring boards curve upwards at the edges? → Cupping
20. What maximum relative humidity reading does ASTM F2170 allow for most standard adhesive-set flooring installations? → 75% RH
21. What is an 'alkalinity (pH) test' checking for on a concrete slab before flooring installation? → High pH levels that can break down water-based adhesives
22. Which best practice should a CFI installer use when submitting a bid to avoid being held responsible for tasks outside their scope? → Clearly list exclusions in the bid document
23. What organization in the US provides installation guidelines specifically for hardwood flooring? → NWFA
24. Which standard test method is used to measure a floor's slip resistance with a tribometer? → ASTM C1028
25. What is the primary reason a CFI installer should obtain a signed 'jobsite conditions' checklist before beginning installation? → To document that all environmental and substrate conditions met installation requirements
26. How long should most water-based flooring adhesives cure before allowing heavy rolling traffic on a commercial installation? → 24–72 hours depending on manufacturer instructions
27. What maximum MVER do most flooring adhesive manufacturers specify for concrete slab installations? → 3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft/24 hrs
28. What is a 'change order' in a flooring installation context? → A written amendment to the original contract when scope changes
29. Which tool is commonly used to make straight, precise cuts in flooring planks? → Miter saw
30. What is the recommended temperature range for installing most resilient flooring products? → 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C)