Exam Practice Questions And Correct

Wood Flooring Specialist Certification Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is the most stable wood species for flooring in

areas with high humidity?

• Pine
• Oak
• Teak
• Maple

Rationale: Teak has natural oils that make it highly resistant to

moisture and dimensional changes, making it very stable in humid conditions. 1 / 4

• What is the primary purpose of acclimating hardwood flooring before

installation?

• Improve surface finish
• Allow the wood to adjust to the room's moisture and temperature
• Enhance color uniformity
• Reduce sanding requirements

Rationale: Acclimation allows the wood to reach equilibrium

moisture content, preventing future warping or gaps.

• Which grading rule allows the most natural variation in wood color

and character?

• Select
• Common/Utility
• #1 Common
• #2 Common

Rationale: Common or utility grades accept more knots, mineral

streaks, and color variation, showing the natural character of wood.

• What is the most common width for solid hardwood flooring boards in

residential applications?

• 2 inches
• 3 inches
• 5 inches
• 7 inches 2 / 4

Rationale: 5-inch boards are widely used because they provide a

balance between aesthetic appeal and stability.

• Which subfloor type requires a moisture barrier before installing solid

hardwood?

• Plywood over joists
• Concrete slab
• Existing hardwood
• OSB subfloor

Rationale: Concrete slabs can transmit moisture, so a vapor barrier is

needed to prevent wood damage.

• What is the main advantage of engineered wood flooring over solid

wood flooring?

• Lower cost
• Better dimensional stability in variable humidity
• Easier sanding
• More stain options

Rationale: Engineered flooring is constructed with layers that resist

expansion and contraction, making it suitable for basements and humid areas.

• Which fastener is typically recommended for solid strip hardwood

flooring?

• Nails
• Cleats or staples 3 / 4

• Glue only
• Screws

Rationale: Cleats or staples allow secure fastening while allowing

wood movement, minimizing splitting.

• What is the minimum recommended thickness for solid hardwood

flooring?

• 1/2 inch
• 3/4 inch
• 5/8 inch
• 1 inch

Rationale: 3/4 inch is standard for solid hardwood, providing enough

material for sanding and finishing over time.

• Which wood species is considered a soft hardwood?
• Hickory
• Maple
• Cherry
• Oak

Rationale: Cherry is softer than many other hardwoods, making it

easier to dent or scratch but easier to work with.

• What is the primary risk of installing hardwood directly over a

crawl space without proper moisture control?

• Board discoloration
• Nail popping
• / 4