CFI Surface Preparation & Safety Procedures 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When using a kneeboard while installing flooring, its primary safety and ergonomic purpose is to:
- Protect the finished flooring surface from tool marks
- Distribute the installer's weight and protect knee joints (Correct answer)
- Prevent static electricity discharge to adhesive
- Improve traction on slippery subfloors
Correct 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.
Question 2: A concrete slab shows a map-cracking pattern across its entire surface. Before installing flooring, the installer should:
- Fill all cracks with flexible sealant only
- Evaluate crack depth and stability, then repair with appropriate filler or overlay (Correct answer)
- Install directly over cracks — they are structural and cannot be fixed
- Apply embossing leveler without any prior crack treatment
Correct 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.
Question 3: What is the minimum recommended acclimation period for solid hardwood flooring in a climate-controlled environment?
- 6 hours
- 3–5 days (Correct answer)
- 30 days
- 12 hours
Correct 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.
Question 4: Which test method measures the in situ relative humidity of a concrete slab using probes embedded in drilled holes?
- Calcium chloride (ASTM F1869)
- In situ relative humidity probe (ASTM F2170) (Correct answer)
- pH strip test
- Plastic sheet test (ASTM D4263)
Correct 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.
Question 5: When installing flooring in a commercial space with an occupied adjacent area, which safety practice is mandatory?
- Complete all work between 2–4 AM only
- Post warning signs and barricade the work zone (Correct answer)
- Use only water-based adhesives regardless of specification
- Notify the building owner by email 7 days in advance
Correct 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.
Question 6: A gypsum-based underlayment has been used as a subfloor. What must the installer verify before applying flooring adhesive?
- That the gypsum is painted white for adhesion
- That the compressive strength meets the adhesive manufacturer's requirement (typically 2,500 PSI minimum) (Correct answer)
- That the gypsum surface is roughened with sandpaper
- That a wooden floating frame is installed over it
Correct 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.
Question 7: What is the purpose of a 'float coat' or skim coat applied before installing tile on a mortar bed?
- To add decorative texture to the tile surface
- To create a smooth, flat, and level bonding surface (Correct answer)
- To act as a waterproof membrane
- To replace the need for grout joints
Correct 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.
CFI Surface Preparation & Safety Procedures 5
When using a kneeboard while installing flooring, its primary safety and ergonomic purpose is to: