Certified Floorcovering Installers is a national association based in Kansas City, Missouri. However, it offers nationwide training programs and certification testing. A calendar available on the home site shows CFI's annual events. However, flooring professionals are invited to call and arrange for a local training if there are not events scheduled nearby. Training programs are available in carpet and hard-surface installation. CFI offers five levels of certification in carpet installation. The cost of training for each level varies. On average, it costs $145 to attend a training program and an additional $290 to test for certification. Anyone may attend training sessions. However, students must have a minimum of two years of flooring experience before receiving certification. Certification lasts for one year and is then renewed annually for a $100 fee. Training takes place over the duration of a weekend. Additionally, educational materials for students to study are mailed upon registration.
INSTALL, the International Standards and Training Alliance, operates as an arm of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. INSTALL is an association of UBC union members dedicated to flooring installation. The UBC is the largest building trades union in North America, and INSTALL students train at centers nationwide. Flooring students enter a four-year apprenticeship program upon enrollment, which is complemented by classroom instruction. Apprentices must show mastery of one level of training before progressing to the next. At the program's conclusion, students may work on UBC supported jobs. Additional information may be obtained by contacting UBC representatives at individual training centers. A database of this contact information is available on the INSTALL home site (see Resources).
The National Wood Flooring Association offers 13 programs in select locations nationwide throughout the year. The NWFA's wood flooring installation program is open to all levels of experience and provides an overview of various installation techniques. It also explains the specific differences between wood flooring manufacturers and teaches about how to install and care for wood created by different leading companies. Finally, students learn how to artfully blend wood with other types of flooring, including carpet and tile. Other programs offered by NWFA provide advanced and more specific training. Scholarships are available and members of NWFA receive a price reduction (see Resources).
The North American Laminate Flooring Association offers two-day workshops nationwide. The NALFA workshops provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how to install and maintain laminate flooring. Workshops are designed for flooring professionals with two years of experience in the industry. Students test for NALFA certification at the conclusion of the training. Certification may be renewed each year for a $100 fee. NALFA members may attend the training for $450. The price is $500 for non-members in 2011.