NALFA
Following a successful launch of its Installer Certification School, the North American Laminate Flooring Association (NALFA) is currently scheduling classes for its 2010 school at locations in California, New Jersey and Georgia, noted Bill Dearing, president.
Open to qualified installers who want to achieve a higher level of expertise, he said the class gives participants “a competitive edge in a time when customer service and quality are so important for retailers.”
The two-day session, Dearing added, is “a comprehensive, hands-on training event that covers all aspects of a quality laminate installation and gives students a unique opportunity to expand their knowledge, skill level, and craftsmanship working side-by-side with industry experts.”
Topics covered include such items as what is laminate; HPL and DPL; types and joints; abrasion and wear class; job site evaluation; floor preparation; sub-floors; moisture evaluation; safety issues and emergency procedures; measuring; balancing, and many others.
Upon completion, participants receive a NALFA certification certificate, ID card, and use of the association’s logo and marketing materials to promote with their business. Certified installers are also added to the new nalfa.com online database that customers can search when looking for a qualified installer.
“Being certified by the only trade association dedicated solely to the laminate flooring industry is beneficial to both retailers and installers,” Dearing said. “Retailers can feel confident that their installers have the expertise necessary to do quality laminate installations, thereby reducing claims and resulting in satisfied customers. Installers get direct access to laminate manufacturers’ technical experts, so they are kept current on latest industry information.”
Dearing said there are still openings available in upcoming classes this year, but they are filling quickly. At press time, applications were still be accepted for four classes in Salem, N.J., on June 14/15, Aug. 16/17, Oct. 11/12 and Dec. 13/14, and for three classes in Calhoun, Ga., on June 28/29, Aug. 30/31 and Oct. 25/26.
Interested participants must have at least two years experience as a laminate flooring installer. The cost of the program is $450 for NALFA members ($500 for non-members) and includes all instructional materials, on-site tools, meals, membership certificate, ID card, and rights to the NALFA logo and marketing materials. Certified installers may renew their membership yearly for a cost of $100.
To register for a class or for more information, call Teiya Eubanks at 423.316.1566.