40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

How can paint indicate that a beam has slipped out of its pocket?

1. Visible cracks in the beam

2. Unpainted parts at the supports

3. Excessive pressure on walls

4. Discoloration of the surrounding area

The correct answer is: Unpainted parts at the supports

When inspecting a structure, the presence of unpainted parts at the supports can signal that a beam has slipped out of its pocket. Typically, the areas where the beam connects to its support should have paint applied during the construction or renovation process. If a beam were to slip, it might expose previously covered surfaces that are now unpainted, indicating a change in position. The unpainted areas are telltale signs that the beam has moved from its original resting place, as the motion can strip away paint or prevent paint from reaching those surfaces during application. This change often occurs without visible damage to the paint itself, distinguishing it from other indicators of structural issues such as cracks or discoloration. Therefore, the unpainted parts at the supports serve as a practical visual cue for inspectors to assess the overall integrity of the beam and its connection to the structure.