Nov. 4/11 2013; Volume 27/number 14
Kansas City, Mo.—The International Certified Flooring Installers Association (CFI) is offering installation certification in the wood/laminate and ceramic categories at Surfaces 2014 in Las Vegas. The two courses will run simultaneously on the show floor’s lower level on Jan. 28 and 29.
“This is a great opportunity for the CFI team of instructors to share their knowledge and skills with installers who are excited about adding value to their careers,” said Jim Walker, CEO. “The CFI brand is known worldwide, and when flooring in-stallers become certified, they can sell the value of what they have earned.” Space is limited, so it is suggested that registrations be made sooner rather than later.
Ceramic and wood/laminate installation training will be held Tues., Jan. 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Wed., Jan. 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the two-day workshops, the importance of pride and professionalism will be emphasized along with the value of customer satisfaction.
The ceramic training and certification will include planning the job, general preparation and substrate preparation. Installers will be actively involved in a backerboard installation, staggering of joints, movement joints, thin-set installation, working with trammel points, layout, balancing, troweling, coverage, grouting of the tiles and all phases of a quality tile installation. The installers will perform each step in the installation process according to CFI proven methods of installation and ANSI standards.
The wood and laminate workshop will feature a hands-on setting for each step of the installation process from planning to the finished project. Installers will perform moisture tests, and topics covered will include preparing the substrate, layout, balancing, moisture retardant systems, as well as the various types of floors such as floating, gluedown and naildown.
Experts from the industry will also be available during the two days, including representatives from the National Wood Flooring Association (NWFA) and North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA). Those who successfully complete the CFI requirements of installation certification for the laminate and wood course can apply for NWFA, NALFA and Armstrong certifications.
Two years of active experience is required to apply for CFI certification. However, those with a minimum of six months experience may attend and receive training. To prepare for the event, CFI study guides are available online at cfiinstallers.com. The training also involves demonstrations, an oral review and written test.
To apply for certification, the installer must submit proof of two years’ active installation experience. Installers register at surfaces.com.
“CFI installers emphasize the value of training to move forward in their careers,” said Robert Varden, executive director. “They are proud of their achievements and become very marketable in the industry.”
All tools and installation materials will be provided. The cost is $495 and includes Exhibits Only or Exhibits with Education registration. For more information, contact Whitney Robinson at wrobinson@cfiinstallers.com or call 816.231.4646.