Exam Questions And Correct Answers

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

• What is the primary function of a power stretcher when installing

carpet?

• To cut excess carpet
• To create seams
• To stretch carpet evenly and remove wrinkles
• To staple carpet to the tack strip

Rationale: The power stretcher ensures the carpet is tight and

wrinkle-free, preventing premature wear and buckling.

• Which of the following is the correct nap direction for carpet

installation in a hallway?

• Toward the entrance door
• Toward the main traffic flow 1 / 4

• Against the light source
• Random direction

Rationale: Carpet nap should align with the direction of the main

traffic flow for appearance consistency and wear.

• Before installation, what is the minimum recommended acclimation

time for carpet in the installation area?

• 1 hour
• 6 hours
• 24 hours
• 48 hours

Rationale: Acclimating carpet for 24 hours allows materials to adjust

to room temperature and humidity, preventing dimensional changes after installation.

• What is the standard temperature range for carpet installation

according to industry guidelines?

A. 40–60°F

B. 65–95°F

C. 90–120°F

D. 30–50°F

Rationale: Proper temperature ensures adhesive bonding and

minimizes expansion or contraction of carpet materials.

• When trimming carpet along a wall, which tool is typically used?
• Carpet shears 2 / 4

• Staple gun
• Wall trimmer
• Seam roller

Rationale: A wall trimmer ensures clean and uniform edges along

walls for a professional finish.

• What is the purpose of tack strips in carpet installation?
• To seal seams
• To hold carpet edges under tension
• To provide cushioning
• To join padding pieces

Rationale: Tack strips grip the carpet backing and secure it under

tension for a tight fit.

• Which direction should the seam in a carpet installation ideally run in

relation to the main light source?

• Parallel to the main light source
• Perpendicular to the main light source
• Across the shortest wall
• Random

Rationale: Running seams parallel to light minimizes the visibility of

seam shadows.

• When installing carpet padding, which side typically faces up?
• Smooth side
• Scrim or mesh side 3 / 4

• Foam side
• Rubberized backing

Rationale: The scrim side faces up to provide stability and reduce

movement during carpet installation.

• What is the standard distance between the tack strip and the wall?
• ¼ inch
• ⅜ inch
• ½ inch
• 1 inch

Rationale: A ⅜-inch gap allows the carpet to tuck neatly between the

wall and tack strip for a secure edge.

• What is the main function of a seam roller?
• To cut carpet edges
• To blend and press seams together
• To stretch the carpet
• To tuck edges under baseboards

Rationale: A seam roller smooths and blends the seam adhesive area

for a seamless appearance.

• What type of seam adhesive is used for most synthetic carpet

backings?

• Latex-based
• Solvent-based
• / 4