NCCER Maintenance & Repair 3

Question 1

When caulking a bathtub surround, why should the tub be filled with water before applying caulk?

Accepted Answer

To weigh down the tub so it doesn't flex and crack the new caulk under load

Answer

Filling the tub with water simulates the loaded weight so the caulk cures in the expanded position, preventing cracking when the tub is used.

Question 2

A circuit breaker trips repeatedly under normal load. After ruling out overloading, what is the next most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

A loose or corroded wire connection causing resistance heat

Answer

Loose or corroded connections create resistance that generates heat, causing the thermal element of the breaker to trip under normal current.

Question 3

When replacing ceramic floor tile, why is it important to use tile spacers during installation?

Accepted Answer

To ensure uniform grout joint width and proper tile alignment

Answer

Tile spacers maintain consistent joint width for uniform grout lines and keep tiles properly aligned during the setting process.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of a P-trap installed beneath a sink drain?

Accepted Answer

To hold a water seal that blocks sewer gases from entering the living space

Answer

The curved P-trap retains a small amount of water that acts as a seal, preventing harmful sewer gases from rising through the drain into the building.

Question 5

When painting over a water-stained ceiling, what must be applied before the finish coat to prevent bleed-through?

Accepted Answer

Oil-based or shellac-based stain-blocking primer

Answer

Oil-based or shellac-based stain-blocking primers seal water stains and tannin bleed-through that latex primers cannot block.

(NCCER) National Center for Construction Education and Research Certified Handyman Practice Test

(NCCER) National Center for Construction Education and Research Certified Handyman Practice Test

NCCER Maintenance & Repair 3