CFI Adhesive & Underlayment Selection 3

Question 1

What trowel notch size is typically recommended when applying urethane adhesive for engineered hardwood flooring?

Accepted Answer

1/4" x 3/16" V-notch

Answer

A 1/4" x 3/16" V-notch trowel is the common manufacturer specification for urethane adhesive for engineered hardwood, providing the correct spread rate and coverage.

Question 2

When is a moisture barrier underlayment required under a floating laminate floor installed over concrete?

Accepted Answer

Whenever the concrete subfloor is at or below grade

Answer

A moisture barrier is required whenever laminate is installed over concrete at or below grade because ground moisture vapor can penetrate the slab and damage moisture-sensitive laminate cores.

Question 3

Which adhesive is best suited for bonding rubber sheet flooring in a commercial kitchen?

Accepted Answer

Epoxy adhesive rated for grease and chemical resistance

Answer

Epoxy adhesive rated for grease and chemical resistance is required in commercial kitchens where constant exposure to cooking oils, cleaners, and heavy traffic would degrade less resistant adhesives.

Question 4

What is 'flash time' in the context of contact cement adhesives?

Accepted Answer

The time allowed for the solvent to evaporate before mating the two surfaces

Answer

Flash time is the period required after applying contact cement to both surfaces during which the solvent evaporates, making the adhesive ready for the bond to occur on contact.

Question 5

A substrate has a moisture vapor emission rate (MVER) of 8 lbs per 1,000 sq ft per 24 hours. What action must the installer take before installing flooring with standard adhesive?

Accepted Answer

Apply a moisture-mitigation coating or use an adhesive rated for high MVER

Answer

An MVER of 8 lbs exceeds the 3–5 lb threshold acceptable for most standard adhesives, requiring either a moisture-mitigation coating or a specifically rated adhesive system.

(CFI) Certified Flooring Installer Practice Test

(CFI) Certified Flooring Installer Practice Test

CFI Adhesive & Underlayment Selection 3