Exam Practice Questions And Correct

Certified Floorcovering Installer (CFI) Commercial Carpet Installer Certification Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary reason for using a power stretcher when installing

commercial carpet?

a) To align the seams properly

b) To ensure proper carpet tension and prevent wrinkling

c) To remove debris before installation

d) To cut carpet along the grain

Rationale: A power stretcher provides consistent tension, preventing

buckling and ripples over time.

• Which type of carpet backing is most commonly used in commercial

installations?

a) Woven jute backing

b) PVC or vinyl backing 1 / 4

c) Foam rubber backing

d) Natural fiber backing

Rationale: PVC or vinyl backings offer superior durability and

moisture resistance for heavy-traffic commercial spaces.

• What is the minimum ambient temperature recommended when

installing commercial carpet tile with pressure-sensitive adhesive?

• 45°F (7°C)
• 55°F (13°C)
• 65°F (18°C)
• 75°F (24°C)

Rationale: Adhesives perform best at or above 65°F, ensuring proper

tack and curing.

• Which tool is primarily used to ensure a tight seam during commercial

carpet seaming?

a) Seam cutter

b) Row finder

c) Seam roller

d) Stair tool

Rationale: A seam roller presses the seam edges together, creating a

strong and smooth bond.

• When using a direct glue-down method, what is the proper waiting

period after applying adhesive before laying carpet?

a) Immediately after spreading 2 / 4

b) Until the adhesive becomes tacky

c) After the adhesive fully dries

d) Wait overnight

Rationale: Allowing adhesive to become tacky prevents moisture

trapping and promotes proper bonding.

• What is the recommended trowel notch size for spreading adhesive in

a direct glue-down installation?

• 1/8” x 1/8” x 1/16”
• 1/4” x 1/4” x 1/8”
• 1/16” x 1/16” x 1/16”
• 3/8” x 3/8” x 1/8”

Rationale: A 1/16” notch provides adequate coverage without

excessive adhesive seepage.

• Which subfloor condition must be corrected before installing

commercial carpet?

a) Uneven or cracked concrete

b) Level and smooth surface

c) Clean and dry concrete

d) Primed gypsum underlayment

Rationale: Uneven or cracked subfloors cause telegraphing and

improper adhesion.

• What is the primary purpose of moisture testing in concrete

subfloors? 3 / 4

a) To determine the floor’s flatness

b) To check for cracks

c) To ensure moisture levels are within adhesive manufacturer limits

d) To detect chemical contaminants

Rationale: Excess moisture can lead to adhesive failure and carpet

delamination.

• When installing patterned carpet in a commercial hallway, what must

be done first?

a) Install baseboards

b) Trim excess carpet

c) Match and align the pattern

d) Seal the seams

Rationale: Pattern alignment ensures a professional appearance and

prevents visible misalignment.

• What is the correct method to cut commercial carpet tiles for

fitting around obstacles?

a) Freehand with a utility knife

b) Use a straightedge and sharp knife for precision

c) Use scissors

d) Cut after adhesive cures

Rationale: Straightedge cuts ensure accurate, clean lines for tight-

fitting installations.

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