40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

How should cabinets be secured in order to distribute load effectively?

1. By using metal brackets

2. With screws that have an enlarged head

3. Using nails instead of screws

4. With adhesive only

The correct answer is: With screws that have an enlarged head

The most effective method for securing cabinets to distribute load is through the use of screws that have an enlarged head. This type of screw provides a larger bearing surface, which helps to better distribute the weight of the cabinet and any contents within it. The enlarged head enhances the connection to the cabinet or wall, reducing the risk of the screw pulling through the material, especially when under load. Using appropriate screws is critical for ensuring the structural integrity of the cabinets, as they will be subjected to various stresses while in use. Screws with enlarged heads also allow for a more robust fastening, which is particularly important in kitchen or bathroom environments where cabinets may hold heavy items like dishes or toiletries. Other securing methods, such as metal brackets, are useful but may not be as effective in distributing the load evenly across the cabinet structure as screws with enlarged heads. Nails, while they can fasten components together, do not provide the same holding power or load distribution as screws. Additionally, relying solely on adhesive might not offer sufficient strength to keep the cabinets secure under the weight and forces they may encounter, making screws the preferred choice.