Many floor covering installers get their start with on-the-job training using a specific set of tools and materials, only to quickly realize the limitations of their training once they step outside of their comfort zones. With so many flooring products, materials and manufacturers on the market—and a plethora of installation specifications and techniques at play—it’s easy for novice installers without specialized training to find themselves out of their depth, particularly in the area of subfloor prep.
The subfloor is where every project starts; without proper assessment and preparation, the subfloor can also be the point where a project ends.
Because the appearance and performance of flooring depend so heavily on getting the subfloor right, training and certification in subfloor preparation is often a first choice for installers and contractors who want to deliver high-quality work that will help them stand out among their competitors. Regardless of where you decide to seek subfloor training and certification, the instructional materials and curriculum you receive should represent a collaboration between experienced contractors and industry manufacturers. This cooperative relationship helps ensure you get the best of both worlds: Professionals who use floor covering installation tools and materials and manufacturers who understand the behaviors and performance of their products.
Skills you can expect:
- Subfloor assessment—An evaluation of the existing subfloor, including structural issues, moisture conditions and irregularities
- Moisture testing and mitigation—Determining moisture levels for subfloor materials and addressing moisture issues
- Surface prep—Cleaning the subfloor surface to ensure proper adhesion and smoothing the surface to correct imperfections
- Subfloor repair—Identifying and fixing cracks, holes or other damage
- Adhesive selection—Selecting the appropriate adhesive for specific flooring materials and subfloor conditions, proper mixing and application
- Tools and equipment—Practice using tools and equipment for subfloor preparation, including power tools, hand tools and moisture meters
- Environmental factors—How temperature, humidity and climate conditions affect subfloor preparation and adhesive performance
- Industry standards—Industry standards, manufacturers’ guidelines and building codes relevant to subfloor preparation and flooring installation
- Safety protocols—Best practices that minimize risks associated with subfloor preparation
For installers who are ready to get their first certification, subfloor preparation is a beneficial place to start. These foundational skills can be immediately set to work, and they have application in all three types of material installations: resilient, carpet and wood.
Subfloor preparation certification makes you a more versatile installer and opens doors in the floor covering field. Committing to your craft in this way keeps you actively engaged in your profession, and it also builds a valuable portfolio of experience that you can take anywhere.
David Gross is the new executive director of INSTALL. He previously served as a full-time instructor at the Northeast Carpenter’s Apprenticeship Training Fund in Hamilton, N.J., and he has also sat on the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America executive board.
