CID CID Textiles and Finishes Specification 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which performance rating system is used to evaluate the durability of upholstery fabrics based on simulated abrasion cycles?
- Wyzenbeek test (Correct answer)
- ASTM E84
- NFPA 260
- UL 94
Correct answer: Wyzenbeek test
The Wyzenbeek test measures fabric abrasion resistance by counting the number of double rubs before fabric wear is visible, with 30,000+ double rubs recommended for heavy-duty commercial use.
Question 2: What does the term 'solution-dyed' mean when applied to fabrics and why is it relevant in commercial interior design?
- The fabric is dyed after weaving using immersion techniques
- The color pigment is added to the fiber before it is extruded, resulting in superior fade and stain resistance (Correct answer)
- The fabric has been pre-treated with a solution to resist mold
- The dye process uses only natural organic compounds
Correct answer: The color pigment is added to the fiber before it is extruded, resulting in superior fade and stain resistance
Solution-dyed fibers have color integrated into the fiber itself during manufacturing, providing exceptional UV, fade, and bleach resistance compared to piece-dyed fabrics.
Question 3: Which certification indicates that a fabric or material meets California Technical Bulletin 117-2013 flammability standards for upholstered furniture?
- GREENGUARD Gold
- CAL 117 (Correct answer)
- Class A per ASTM E84
- BIFMA Level 2
Correct answer: CAL 117
CAL 117 (California TB 117-2013) is a smolder resistance standard for upholstered furniture cover fabrics widely adopted across the US as the baseline fire safety requirement.
Question 4: What does VOC stand for in interior finish specification, and why does it matter for LEED certification?
- Visual Optical Contrast; affects color rendering accuracy
- Volatile Organic Compound; limits indoor air pollutants from paints and adhesives for occupant health (Correct answer)
- Verified Occupancy Code; required for commercial certificate of occupancy
- Variable Output Control; governs lighting dimming systems
Correct answer: Volatile Organic Compound; limits indoor air pollutants from paints and adhesives for occupant health
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals emitted from paints, adhesives, and finishes that degrade indoor air quality; specifying low-VOC products is required for LEED IEQ credits.
Question 5: Which flooring specification standard classifies hard surface flooring (tile, stone) for slip resistance using the DCOF (Dynamic Coefficient of Friction) rating?
- ASTM C1028
- ANSI A137.1 (Correct answer)
- NFPA 101
- IBC Section 1003
Correct answer: ANSI A137.1
ANSI A137.1 is the American National Standard for ceramic tile that includes DCOF AcuTest requirements, with a minimum 0.42 DCOF for level interior wet areas.
Question 6: What is the primary advantage of specifying Class A (Flame Spread Index 0–25) finishes per ASTM E84 for interior wall surfaces in commercial projects?
- They are always less expensive than lower-rated materials
- They meet the most stringent fire code requirements for occupied commercial and high-rise buildings (Correct answer)
- They eliminate the need for sprinkler systems
- They are the only materials approved for exterior use
Correct answer: They meet the most stringent fire code requirements for occupied commercial and high-rise buildings
Class A materials have the lowest flame spread rating per ASTM E84, meeting the strictest IBC requirements for high-occupancy commercial, healthcare, and institutional interiors.
CID CID Textiles and Finishes Specification 1
Which performance rating system is used to evaluate the durability of upholstery fabrics based on simulated abrasion cycles?