Closets in new construction are sometimes very large, particularly the master bedroom closet. In this case the closet is in the shape of a capital H, and large enough for a sizable slumber party.
That means it's going to hold lots of stuff!
That being the case, it is important that the racks are strong. Because? Because gravity works, every time.
So it's important that they are installed properly.
You want the racks to be level so they can be used for storage.
And each of the support arms should be screwed into a stud.
When the support arms are supported by Molly Bolts (which test at 170 pounds) they often come loose as they are tightened too much, damaging the drywall and becoming and weak at the support point.
While there are many different kinds, I consider Molly bolts to be the scourge of mankind. But that is just me. They are used very often by builders, and sometimes in the wrong places!
In this closet the support arms were put in the wrong places.
One was already coming loose.
Clothing is very heavy. The demands on racks and support usually gets heavier!
And gravity works, every time.
If this support arm is loose now, what will happen over time?
And why is it loose?
Do you see the little notch in the top where it attaches to the front rod? The narrow support rod extending from back to front is supposed to slide into that notch. That way there will be no slippage.
My client asked if the support arms could simply just be moved over an inch to capture that small rod into the notch.
The answer? Sure! But the support arm will not only be out of alignment, it will be weaker since it won't be straight. The rack would have to move, if it has room. Remember, clothing is very heavy, and typically heavier over time and gravity works, every time. Then she said something interesting. "Well, if they can't move the racks to make it look good, those racks are COMING OUT OF THE CLOSET."
My recommendation: Many racks diverged in a closet and I, I saw the ones less supported by, and that has made all the difference. It's the little things on a new construction inspection that can make all the difference. Pay attention!
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