Expert flooring installation is an important consideration in a flooring purchase. A floor covering does not become a finished product until installed. Fortunately, there are many knowledgeable installation experts. Unfortunately, there are also many workers who say they are flooring installers when they are really floor covering butchers.
There is a Difference Between Expert Flooring Installation and Butchering!
Installation is a key element in product performance. This fact cannot be stressed enough.
Common Examples of Improper Installation
- Failing to properly acclimate the flooring product and the area of installation.
- Not leaving the proper expansion space for floating and other hard surface floors.
- Failing to test a structure for moisture-related concerns.
- Carpet seams not properly sealed may fray. This will allow the backing to separate along the seam edge.
- Floating floors, where planks not joined properly may separate.
- A hardwood floor, not properly nailed down, may squeak or move.
- Sheet vinyl seams, not properly sealed, will open, shrink, and turn upward.
The floor covering industry is striving for improvement in many areas, including excellence in floor covering installation.
- Carpet and Rug Institute – CRI has developed a “seal of approval” issued to companies meeting specific installation criteria.
- CFI – International Certified Flooring Installers offer professional training and certification for flooring installers, including carpet, resilient, laminate, hardwood, and ceramic
- FCIA – Floor Covering Installers Association have developed excellent programs for improving the quality of floor covering installers.
- National Wood Flooring Association – NWFA offer training and certification for hardwood flooring installers.
- World Flooring Association – WFCA offers continuing education for installers, dealers, inspectors, and others.
- NALFA – The North American Laminate Association trains and certifies laminate flooring installers.
Important Points
- Importance of Proper Flooring Installation: Proper installation significantly affects the performance and longevity of flooring products, highlighting the need for skilled work.
- Common Examples of Improper Installation: Mistakes such as failing to acclimate materials, neglecting moisture testing, and improper sealing can lead to flooring failures and damage.
- Consequences of Poor Installation Practices: Improper installation can cause issues like squeaking, movement, and warping, which compromise the integrity of the flooring.
- Industry Initiatives for Better Installation Standards: Organizations like CRI, CFI, and NWFA provide certifications, training, and standards to improve the quality of flooring installation.
- Benefits of Certification and Training Programs**: Certification and ongoing education for installers ensure high standards and help prevent common installation errors.
Continue to part 6: Essential Facts About Floor Covering
