CFI Estimating, Layout & Planning 2

Question 1

When estimating carpet for stairs, approximately how much carpet (in linear inches of width) is needed per step when measuring tread and riser combined?

Accepted Answer

18–21 inches

Answer

A typical tread depth of 11–12 inches plus a riser height of 7–8 inches totals roughly 18–21 inches of carpet per step.

Question 2

For a diagonal tile installation at 45 degrees, what additional waste percentage should be added to the estimate compared to a straight lay?

Accepted Answer

10–15%

Answer

Diagonal installation increases edge cuts at all four perimeter walls significantly, requiring approximately 10–15% additional material beyond a straight layout.

Question 3

In a 3-4-5 triangle method used for squaring layout lines, if one leg measures 3 ft and the other 4 ft, what must the hypotenuse measure for a true 90° angle?

Accepted Answer

5 ft

Answer

The 3-4-5 Pythagorean triple guarantees a right angle: 3² + 4² = 5², so the hypotenuse must equal exactly 5 ft.

Question 4

When planning a ceramic tile layout starting from the center of a room, what is the first step before snapping any layout lines?

Accepted Answer

Dry-lay tiles from wall to wall to check border widths

Answer

Dry-laying a row of tiles from center to wall (without adhesive) lets the installer check border tile widths and adjust the starting point before any lines are committed.

Question 5

A hardwood floor is being estimated for a 14 ft × 18 ft room with an 8% waste factor. What total square footage should be ordered?

Accepted Answer

272 sq ft

Answer

14 × 18 = 252 sq ft; 252 × 1.08 = 272.16 sq ft, rounded up to 272 sq ft minimum (typically the next full box).

CFI - Flooring Installation and Maintenance Certification Practice Test

CFI - Flooring Installation and Maintenance Certification Practice Test

CFI Estimating, Layout & Planning 2