Exam Questions And Correct Answers

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

• What is the primary purpose of a vapor barrier under flooring?
• To add structural support
• To prevent water vapor from damaging the flooring
• To increase thermal insulation
• To improve soundproofing
• To prevent water vapor from damaging the flooring

Rationale: Vapor barriers prevent moisture from rising from the

subfloor, which can damage flooring materials like wood and laminate.

• Which flooring type is most prone to expansion and contraction due to

humidity?

• Ceramic tile 1 / 4

• Solid hardwood
• Vinyl
• Laminate

Rationale: Solid hardwood expands and contracts with changes in

humidity and temperature, requiring proper acclimation before installation.

• What is the minimum recommended thickness for a concrete

subfloor?

• 2 inches
• 3 inches
• 4 inches
• 6 inches

Rationale: A minimum of 4 inches of concrete ensures sufficient

strength and stability to support flooring and prevent cracking.

• When installing carpet, what is the recommended method to secure it

along the perimeter?

• Glue only
• Tack strip
• Stapling
• Nails

Rationale: Tack strips hold the carpet edges securely and allow for

stretching and proper installation. 2 / 4

• What is the primary function of underlayment for laminate flooring?
• To provide color contrast
• To absorb sound and provide moisture protection
• To increase floor height
• To act as a permanent adhesive

Rationale: Underlayment cushions the laminate, reduces noise, and

provides a moisture barrier.

• Which adhesive type is most commonly used for vinyl sheet flooring?
• Epoxy
• Acrylic-based adhesive
• Polyurethane
• Water-based wood glue

Rationale: Acrylic-based adhesives are designed for vinyl sheet

applications, providing strong adhesion and flexibility.

• What is the purpose of acclimating hardwood flooring before

installation?

• To clean the flooring
• To increase strength
• To allow the wood to adjust to room humidity and temperature
• To remove surface defects

Rationale: Acclimation prevents later warping or gaps caused by

environmental changes after installation. 3 / 4

• What tool is commonly used to cut ceramic tile?
• Handsaw
• Jigsaw
• Wet saw
• Chisel

Rationale: Wet saws use a diamond blade and water to cut tile

accurately while reducing dust and cracking.

• Which flooring type is considered the most durable for high-traffic

commercial areas?

• Carpet
• Solid hardwood
• Porcelain tile
• Laminate

Rationale: Porcelain tile is extremely hard, scratch-resistant, and

suitable for heavy use environments.

• Which subfloor is recommended for floating laminate

installations?

• Plywood
• Concrete with no underlayment
• Level, smooth subfloor with underlayment
• Particleboard with adhesive

Rationale: Floating laminate requires a flat and stable subfloor with

underlayment to prevent movement and noise.

• / 4